Victoria’s Year 12 exam website has been hacked – here are 3 ways students can handle academic stress
Two clinical psychologists explain how students can deal with setbacks during exam periods.
Yesterday evening, an unknown hacker posted messages on the Victorian exam authority website, stating they had accessed 2026 Year 12 exam papers. The hacker claimed to have distributed these papers to students ahead of the exam day. However, the Victorian exam authority has dismissed these claims as false and fabricated, designed to profit from the anxiety of students. Year 12 exams are scheduled to continue as normal.
For Year 12 students feeling overwhelmed by this news, there are three strategies to manage academic stress. First, it's essential to recognize and reduce catastrophic thinking, which involves imagining the worst possible outcomes. Instead, examine the facts surrounding your worries and remind yourself that previous students have faced similar challenges in the past.
Second, focus on what you can control, such as continuing with your study routine. The incident has been reported to the police, and it's crucial to let the authorities handle the situation while you concentrate on your own academic preparation.
Lastly, incorporate exercise into your routine, as research shows it can improve mental wellbeing, memory, and reduce stress. Choose a form of exercise that suits your preferences, whether it's a run, swim, or a relaxed walk. If the news is exacerbating your pre-existing exam anxiety, consider using stress-reduction techniques, like breathing exercises, creating an exam plan, and challenging negative thoughts. Seek support from friends, parents, or trusted adults if needed.
Written by urgent.news from The Conversation AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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