Reducing VCE stress is all about balancing study, commitments and time to relax.
To find this balance, review how much time you spend in a week for classes, travel, work, volunteering, exercise/sport and chores. Allow weekly study time according to your teachers suggested hours for all subjects. Congratulate yourself when you complete your planned study hours.The time left over is for relaxing and socialising, which is important for your mental health.
A healthy body means a healthy mind. Keep fit (at least half an hour exercise each day), eat well and get regular sleep. This will improve your ability to think clearly, concentrate and stay focused.
Study for an hour, then take a 15 minute break, moving around. During breaks your brain will process and consolidate learning. If you are frustrated or struggling with your study, take a break. Your brain will still work on the problem; you will see the problem with fresh eyes on return. We retain more information and are more productive in a positive mood.
Although I encourage you to achieve the best you can in VCE, remember if you do not achieve as well as you hope, this is not your last chance! There are many different studying, training and career pathways to follow. If this is the wrong time in your life to get the most out of study, you can always return to study at a later time.
Have fun, enjoy the last year of your school life, it will go quicker than you think!
