The weight of the exams, that begin on Monday, can become too much for some who don’t have ways to cope with the stress associated.

Marian Catholic College year 12 students Mianno Mendoza and Jonathon Quarisa have both felt the stress but have come up with ways to handle it.

“I feel prepared, I've done as much study as I could,” Jonathon said.

“If I feel as if it's too much I just stop, go for a bike ride and then get back into it.”

For Mianno it was more a case of surrounding himself with people who can provide support.

“I like to spend time with my family to take my mind off of the HSC every now and then,” Mianno said.

“I always go out with friends whenever I can either for studying or just hanging out.”

Mianno and Jonathon have came up with their own stress-relieving techniques with the help of Marian staff.

Information evenings are held for students to talk about stress management techniques, study techniques and ways to create the right balance between work, social and study life.

MCC director of pastoral care Andrew Holloway said along with the information nights, the school brings in experts on stress management.

“What we set up is that during school they'll have various experts come in and speak to them,” Mr Holloway said.

“We’ve had a mediation and yoga expert in to talk about techniques.

“We like to be proactive and show them all these techniques to help them.”

Griffith Counselling Service NSW’s Lorraine Sutton and Donna Piromalli deal with many students during this time of year.

They following tips are the same ones they give to people they see in person.