To our amazing students and families,

Firstly well done to all of you, for your courage to face each day as it comes, your resilience during times of adversity, and your persistence with managing life as best you can. As a school we believe that it is vital to promote and focus on mental health and wellbeing especially in difficult times such as this. We have recognised that both students and families are dealing with many challenges causing stress and anxiety therefore we have put together a list of support services (with links) for students and families.

On Friday students will be able to select from a range of activities from all learning areas, taking ownership of their learning and wellbeing whilst taking a break from screens and the pressure of completing academic work. We have also attached some tasks from The Resilience at Home Project which focuses on gratitude, empathy, mindfulness and emotional literacy in a fun and engaging manner in an effort to help students and families during times of adversity. We would also like to acknowledge and send a big congratulations to students who have received values awards for their efforts and learning achievements, well done.

We want thank all of our students and families for providing support to each other and those in The Lakes community. Please continue to show kindness and care to others and yourselves. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any support or assistance, we are here to help you.

Mental Health Support Services Information:

Headspace

This Australia-wide government organisation provides mental health support that can help you with depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns. They provide free online and phone counselling, and have treatment centres located all around Australia that you can visit.

Kids Helpline

Kids Helpline is a support service for young people aged 5–25. They provide free online and phone counselling and are available 24/7. You can also request the same counsellor every time.

Black Dog Institute

This research and treatment facility specialises in mental health, including depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. Their website has information about mental health issues, including self-tests and suggestions for what you can do right now.

beyondblue

Provides information on depression and anxiety, including symptom checklists and details of additional support services.

SANE Australia

This mental health organisation provides information and resources for people with complex mental health issues, and has a hotline and forums where you can chat to other people.

Head to Health

Head to Health makes your search for support easier by pointing you to available mental health information, programs and services from publicly funded providers.

Clinical Research Unit for Anxiety and Depression (CRUfAD)

This research facility provides online and and in-person treatment for anxiety and depression.

HelpGuide

This international not-for-profit organisation provides tips for managing mental health and wellness.

Mental Health Carers Australia

This organisation is for friends and family members supporting people through mental health concerns.

If you need help urgently

If you or someone around you is in immediate danger, call 000 or go to an emergency department.

Another option in a crisis is to contact your local crisis assessment and treatment team. This is a team that provides immediate support during a mental health crisis, and they’re available 24/7:

VIC: 1300 874 243

If you’re feeling suicidal, unsafe or extremely distressed and need to talk to someone right now, the following services are available 24 hours a day:

beyondblue: Free phone support (1300 22 4636).

Kids Helpline: Free phone and online counselling for young people 5–25 years (1800 55 1800).

Lifeline: Lifeline’s online chat counselling service is available seven days a week, 7 pm–4 am, AEST. Telephone counselling is available 24/7 (13 11 14).

Suicide Call Back Service: Immediate telephone counselling and support in a crisis (1300 659 467).

Well Being Information

Supporting Children's mental health through the pandemic.