Supporting Students Experiencing School Refusal

School refusal is when a student has significant difficulty attending school due to emotional distress and is an issue many families may face at some point. It can present as frequent absences, late arrivals, or distress (e.g., anxiety, physical complaints) when it’s time to go to school. While it can be challenging for families and schools alike, early understanding and coordinated support can make a meaningful difference.
The following resource, available through ReachOut, provides further information, advice and support:
Conversation guide: how to talk to your teen about school refusal
If you are interested, we will also be starting up a School Refusal Parent Workshop, with our Lumen Counselling Team, to educate and support parents whose kids are struggling to attend school. You can contact me via email at Vanessa.Mirco@cewa.edu.au for more information.
Warm Regards
Vanessa Mirco
College Psychologist
