IT'S that time of year when exams and assignments roll around and teenagers are making decisions for their futures.

Between juggling study, a social life and the pressure to get the perfect results, this can be one of the most challenging times for teenagers across the Southern Downs.

Headspace Warwick care coordinator Chris Burt said children facing end-of-year assignments were under incredible pressure and needed the support of their parents.

"Parents need to check in on the child, be aware of what they have going on and how they're felling about it,” Mr Burt said.

"You may not know much about the subject but it's very beneficial for the child's health if you understand their feelings and can bring support.”

While some teens might be more forward with their feelings, others might keep things to themselves.

Mr Burt encouraged parents to look for changes in their teenager's behaviour, which might indicate they are stressed.

He said things for parents to look out for were teens who were more agitated than usual, more withdrawn and focused on negative outcomes.

When a parent does recognise their child is stressed, Mr Burt suggested they encourage healthy lifestyle choices.

"We have to support our brains as well as our bodies,” he said.

Mr Burt said maintaining a balanced diet, drinking and eating healthily and getting plenty of exercise and enough sleep could help prevent students from becoming excessively stressed or unwell.

"Make sure they're not falling asleep with their heads in the books,” Mr Burt said.

"It's important they wind down before going to bed, to get a better sleep.”

Mr Burt said regular breaks could improve focus.

"Having that break can help clear the mind and make it easier to get back to work,” he said.

"If they are finding themselves getting more distracted or unmotivated, it's important for them to not feel guilty for taking a break and enjoying an activity other than studying.”

It's not uncommon for teenagers not to be talkative, however Mr Burt said it was important to have regular conversations.

"Just the act of being able to share their thoughts might help them feel less stressed and bring clarity,” he said.

During these final days, students can find techniques to help them cope.

"The easiest thing a child can do when in an exam setting and starting to feel overwhelmed is to stop and breathe,” he said said.

"By taking a few slow deep breaths, the heart rate slows down and lowers stress and anxiety levels allowing your mind to focus.”