The end of high school is an exciting time. It can also be one of the most stressful stretches your child has faced, with exam pressure, looming deadlines, and the weight of deciding what comes next all landing at once. As a parent, worrying about how they're coping is natural. The good news is that you're well placed to help and knowing what to look for is the first step.

Why our teens are under more pressure

There's real evidence behind that worry. research from the Black Dog Institute shows youth mental health is one of the defining challenges of this century, and that risk rises through the older teen years. Coping with stress is the number one concern young people report, across every age group.

Here's the encouraging part: teenagers aged 15 to 19 are generally comfortable getting help from their parents. So, you don't need to wait for your child to ask. You can take the lead.

What does stress look like in a teenager?

Your child might not recognise what they're feeling as anxiety or stress, but they'll often notice the symptoms, and so will you. Common signs include:

• irritability
• sleeping too much or too little
• pulling away from friends, or a change in their social habits
• low motivation
• trouble concentrating or focusing
• feeling out of control
• headaches and stomach aches
• getting sick more often

One or two of these on a tough week is normal. A cluster of them that sticks around is worth a gentle conversation.

When the pressure is really about the ATAR

This is where we see it most. When the stress is tied to a high ATAR or a big exam, students can fall into a perfection trap, and they often need help finding a workable balance between study, friends, and family. If your child is putting that kind of pressure on themselves, you may notice their stress climb.

The most useful thing you can offer is perspective. Year 12 measures how a student performs at one moment in time. It isn't a test of intelligence, character, or what they're capable of, and the ATAR and WACE don't decide whether they'll succeed in life. It's worth reminding them of that, often.

It also helps to know there are many pathways to university that families often don't realise exist. If a particular ATAR feels out of reach, it rarely means the door is closed. Knowing that early can take a surprising amount of heat out of the whole year.

Seven proven ways to lower stress, from a psychologist

Dr Charlotte Keating, a psychologist with a PhD in neuroscience who specialises in adolescent behaviour, shared seven simple, evidence-based habits that help:

1. aim for eight hours of sleep a night
2. get around 30 minutes of movement a day
3. eat well, with plenty of fresh, brain-friendly food
4. build in time to switch off and relax
5. take regular study breaks
6. practise mindfulness
7. keep things in perspective

None of these is dramatic on its own. Done consistently, together they make a real difference.

How to be your child's wellness coach

You don't have to fix everything. Partnering with your child on a simple plan often works better than managing it for them. A few practical things you can do:

• Keep the fridge stocked with easy, healthy snacks like fruit, vegetables, hummus, yoghurt, nuts, and seeds, so eating well and eating often is effortless.
• Keep water within reach. If plain water gets boring, try a simple infused water to keep them hydrated without the sugar.
• Nudge them away from the desk every couple of hours. A walk, a bike ride, time with the family pet, or a favourite playlist all count.
• Protect time for friends, family, and something they love each day, even if it's only for a little while.
• Help them find a couple of free mindfulness apps. Dr Keating recommends Smiling Mind and Headspace.

When to bring in extra support

If your child is still feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Your GP can point you to free services in your community, and if you have private health insurance, it may include benefits that support the whole family. Asking for support early is a strength, not a last resort.

Some stress through Year 12 is inevitable. What matters most is having a plan to ease it, and making sure your child knows you're there to support them, not to add to the pressure.

For more practical advice on creating a supportive environment as your teen approaches university, explore our events and resources for parents and families.