As study stress skyrockets due to the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly among Year 12 students who are fast-approaching end of year exams and assessments, experts warn that the mental health of thousands of young Australians is at risk.
A nationally representative survey of young people conducted by the mental health service, ReachOut in January this year, found that around 30% of young people related study stress as one of their main concerns.
This has since increased, with a follow-up survey revealing that more than 38% of young people report study stress concerns.
What’s more, since the Covid-19 restrictions first came into effect in March 2020 to 31 July 2020, almost 28,000 people sought help for study stress via the ReachOut, a 250% year-on-year increase.
ReachOut has also seen a spike in demand from parents looking for support to help their teens manage study stress, a 430% year-on-year increase.
“Whether you’re a student, parent or educator, Covid-19 and related restrictions are having a very real and significant impact on schooling, and causing distress and concern,” says CEO of ReachOut, Ashley de Silva, adding that the uncertainty and disruption of Covid-19 has put exam and study stress into overdrive.
“We’re encouraging young people to take a proactive approach to study stress and remind young people that it is particularly important to stay connected during Year 12.
“In particular, for those students that may be having trouble sleeping, unable to concentrate or experiencing mental impacts, we want them to know that a range of support is available.”
In April 2020, ReachOut launched a COVID-19 specific study support hub for students, parents of teenagers and educators to help deal with the challenges of studying during COVID-19.
For more information, visit: ReachOut.com.
