Health & Wellbeing

Term 1, may have been an 11 week term, but for many of us the time has passed by quickly! Hopefully the term has been a positive commencement for our new students in Year 7 and in other Year groups.

The holiday break can be a welcomed time of relaxation and reflection. However, it can also be a time of shifting roles and responsibilities elsewhere, managing time with family, work and other duties. To make the most of the break it can be helpful to make some plans at the beginning of the break, that assist in focusing on self-care.

In conversations with peers recently, I have been interested in their individual approach to the holiday period. Their ideas could be relevant to students and parents / caregivers. One peer indicated that they attempt to have the first two days of the break as jobs days, to work hard to get the “must do” tasks done. Whilst there will still be other tasks to do during the break, this will ease the load and increase the ability to enjoy the well earned break. A similar approach could apply to students who may have school work to do in the break, focusing on the compulsory work in the beginning of the break, then having some down time.

Another peer reflected on the value of the practice of mindfulness during the holiday break. Mindfulness is a way to be open and aware of what is happening in the moment—being present both internally and externally. Mindfulness has been shown to improve relationship satisfaction, reduce stress in relationships, and increase empathy. Mindful practices can also help reduce internal stress and anxiety.

Mindfulness practice in the holiday break could include:

Practice active listening.  You might be surprised how rewarding and also how much more you will observe and hear. Try to understand the complete message that people are conveying—not just through their words, but also through their actions and body language.

Active listening works best when you minimize distractions, so put away your smartphone, turn off the TV, and turn down the music so that you can hear what people are saying. 

Reflect on habits or patterns that might be holding you back. Consider what has worked well for you during the last term, what has not worked so well, and what you may have control over and the ability to change for more positive outcomes in the future.

Balance the “shoulds” with awareness of your own needs. Holiday obligations can be important but be sure to balance them with awareness of your own needs. Operating on obligations alone and trying to please everyone’s expectations can lead to resentment and burnout. Make sure to take the time and space you need to nourish yourself.

Practice self-compassion. During a holiday break, don’t forget to take care of yourself and be good to yourself. Get regular sleep and exercise and take time to do relaxing or fun things so that you can recharge. Taking care of yourself allows you to be able to be more attentive and calmer when you’re with others during the holidays. 

On return to school after the holiday break, it can be useful to reflect on what worked well in the holiday period. Are there some of your behaviours from the holiday period that you may be able to continue with in the term time? These may be small acts, but they may aid in a healthier mindset and behaviours during the term. For example, making your own lunch, getting enough rest, taking time to exercise, catching up with friends.

If you require support over the holiday break, or you are concerned about someone else, please access support through one of the following avenues:

Mental Health Accessline: 1800 800 944

Kidshelpline: 1800 55 1800

Headspace digital services video:

Register for a headspace account HERE

Rachel Smith | College Counsellor