We’ve got your back, big names tell Year 12s, as they confront exam stress and anxiety

Stresses associated with disrupted learning have ­adversely affected female Year 12 students more than their male peers, according to new research.

Research by DrinkWise found almost half of female students are ‘crying a lot’ and ‘staying in bed longer than usual’. Picture: Getty Images

The stresses associated with disrupted learning in 2020 have ­adversely affected female Year 12 students more than their male peers, according to new research, with more than half worried about their mental health as they ­approach their final exams.

Research by DrinkWise found almost half of female students are “crying a lot” and “staying in bed longer than usual”, suggesting they are not coping as well with the stress and anxiety associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

About 30 per cent of male students reported they are staying in bed longer than usual, as well as going online or using social media as a distraction.

Of the 519 school leavers surveyed nationwide, 48 per cent don’t believe they are dealing with their problems well, and 65 per cent rated this year as more difficult than they expected.

Only 4 per cent of students said they had accessed professional support services when they were feeling anxious or stressed.

The research shows 11 per cent of Year 12 students are turning to smoking and drinking alcohol to relieve stress and anxiety. “2020 has been a difficult year for so many Australians and it’s been particularly tough for Year 12s,” DrinkWise chief executive Simon Strahan said.

“The final year of school can be stressful at the best of times, let alone during the disruption caused by COVID-19. We want to show Year 12s they are supported.

“It’s also important they ­remember that one year doesn’t define the rest of their lives and it’s critical that both students and their families who are feeling stressed or anxious know help and support is available.

“Trying to relieve stress or anxiety with drugs or alcohol is not the answer.”

The research has led to a new initiative, called You Got This, in which well-known Australians offer messages of support for Year 12 students.

Video messages of support have been made by journalists Leigh Sales and Georgie Gardner, politician Tanya Plibersek and commentator Jamila Rizvi.

Governor-General David Hurley and NRL players James Tedesco and Damien Cook are among other names lending their weight to the cause.