Supporting students facing study stress Fri 31 August 2012 Paul O'Halloran Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education and Skills Schools play an important role in helping students develop skills for effective study that will help reduce stress, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education and Skills, Paul O'Halloran, said today. Addressing the Study and Stress for Young Tasmanians Forum in Launceston today, Mr O'Halloran said that students were encouraged to develop positive study habits to reduce the likelihood of stress. "Schools encourage students to manage their time wisely and establish a regular study schedule," Mr O'Halloran said. "Students also need to create a good study environment, get enough sleep and eat properly and families are an important part of providing this support. "Stress management techniques such as regular exercise are another good way of helping students to reduce their stress levels." Mr O'Halloran said that in the event students experienced stress, every Government school, and many Catholic and Independent schools, had access to a professional counsellor. "School social workers and psychologists are able to provide strategies for students and families dealing with stress, and provide professional learning for teachers," Mr O'Halloran said. "Schools work closely with their local communities to connect with services and build capacity in proactive ways. For example, school-based youth health forums, preventative information in school newsletters, and students creating health promotion posters to display in local businesses. "There's also a range of services and websites available to support young people with information about study and dealing with stress, such as ReachOut, The Desk, Headspace, Black Dog Institute and the Youth BeyondBlue." Mr O'Halloran said that the forum - attended by about 150 young Tasmanians from throughout the State - provided a wonderful opportunity for young Tasmanians to share their ideas about study, stress and how to achieve a balance between work, other commitments and relationships. "We need to ensure that young people have their voices heard and forums like this are a great example of the ways young Tasmanians can share their stories and experiences," Mr O'Halloran said. "I'd like to congratulate the Youth Network of Tasmania, the Department of Premier and Cabinet's Community Development Division, and Launceston City Council for organising today's forum."