The Falcon Newsletter

Wellbeing News

A Wonderful Term 2 at Lyndale Secondary College

 

As Term 2 comes to a close, we reflect with pride on what has been a rich and rewarding term for our school community. Our ongoing focus on wellbeing and inclusion continues to create meaningful opportunities for students to engage, connect and grow.

 

Throughout the term, we’ve delivered a range of impactful programs that support the holistic development of our young people. The CORE program, delivered in partnership with Blue Light Victoria, has helped students build confidence, leadership and teamwork skills. Our La Mana Pasifika cultural program has been a vibrant celebration of cultural identity and community, providing a safe and proud space for our Pasifika students to explore their heritage and connect with one another.

 

We also welcomed Consent Labs, who delivered vital education on respectful relationships and consent—conversations that support the safety and wellbeing of all students. In Reconciliation Week, our school came together to reflect, learn, and strengthen our commitment to truth-telling, understanding, and walking together with First Nations peoples.

 

We were also proud to celebrate IDAHOBIT Day (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia). This important day provided an opportunity for our community to stand together in support of inclusion and equality for LGBTIQA+ students and families, reinforcing that Lyndale is a school where everyone belongs.

Another highlight this term was the launch of the Lyndale Pantry, which is now providing fresh produce and healthy food options to support families in our community. We are proud to offer this service and encourage families to refer to the attached flyer for further details on how to access the Pantry.

 

As we head into the school holiday break, we would like to thank our families for their continued support. We wish you all a safe and restful break and remind you that our Wellbeing and Inclusion team will be available in Term 3 to support students and families with any challenges that may arise.

At Lyndale, we remain committed to fostering a school environment where every student feels supported, valued and empowered to thrive.

 

Warm regards,

 

The Wellbeing and Inclusion Team

Lyndale Secondary College

 

ClearlyMe- A mental health app to see teens through tough times

When teenagers go through a tough time it can make them feel more than just ‘low’ or ‘sad’. Tough times can also leave teens feeling stressed, worried or overwhelmed. It’s normal for young people to feel these emotions, but when these feelings last longer than expected, it can impact their mental health.  

Almost one in four teens report experiencing mental health challenges like stress, anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. When it comes to depression, approximately 1 in 10 Australian teens aged 11–17 meet the criteria for a diagnosis. Finding the best type of help at the right time can be challenging.  

At this age, teens can be reluctant to seek professional help, and parents may experience difficulties in getting their teens to confide in them about their emotions or the challenges they face. Sometimes, it can also be difficult for parents to know how to initiate support or where to begin offering help. 

The ClearlyMe app is designed for teens aged 12-17 who are experiencing depressive symptoms and psychological distress, or in other words, going through a tough time. 

What is a tough time?

Tough times can make us feel low or sad. Sometimes it’s more than that and we feel stressed, worried, anxious or overwhelmed. Other times, it could be that we struggle to get out of bed in the morning, and we don’t know why.

It is normal to go through tough times, and usually, they can pass on their own. But sometimes, they stay for a little while longer. And it can be hard to explain this feeling to others, leaving people feeling alone or even unseen.

 

ClearlyMe can help teenagers to:

  • Think and feel better when they’re going through a tough time.
  • Be the best version of themselves and get the most out of school and life.
  • Get to know themselves through your thoughts, feelings and actions.
  • Feel less alone and know help is available, if they need it.

ClearlyMe is developed the Black Dog Institute, an Australian medical research institute who support better mental health for teens. The app is free to use- anywhere and anytime. And the activities on the app can be completed in any order- young people can complete them independently, or with the help of friends, parents or mental health professionals. 

For more information about the ClearlyMe app, visit ClearlyMe® for Teens - Black Dog Institute | Better Mental Health

A reminder that all students can access in person support at school from the Wellbeing Team (located near the Canteen). Students can self-refer for support or ask their Year Level Co-ordinator to make a referral to the Wellbeing Team. 

Year 10 Immunisations

The Dandenong Immunisation Team will be visiting Lyndale SC on Thursday the 26th of August to provide FREE immunisations to Year 10 students. More information about Year 10 Immunisations will be sent to families at the beginning of Term 3.