"Mater Dei Matters"

SchoolTV - Academic Care and Wellbeing

How are our young people doing?

 

For 17 years Mission Australia has surveyed Australian youth and here is the most recent snapshot of what they are saying about their hopes, aspirations and concerns. James Toomey, CEO Mission Australia, in the  Mission Australia Youth Survey Report 2018 says that many young people reported a positive and optimistic outlook on their lives and their futures; they showed confidence in achieving their study and work goals, were positive about family relationships and showed strong engagement with their communities through a range of activities. 

 

Also reported are that young people are increasingly raising concerns about mental health and that mental health was the number one issue of national concern in the current survey. Over the past three years, the proportion of young people identifying mental health as an issue of national importance doubled, rising from 21% in 2016 to 43% in 2018.

 

We are also reminded to consider these findings in the broader context, including acknowledging the endeavours that have raised public awareness and, in part, reduced the stigma of mental health issues, and the effectiveness of these efforts in the increased identification of mental health.

Asking someone  "RUOK?"   is one way to open up and keep the conversation about mental health and wellbeing happening. This week, at a Riverina Bluebell sponsored event in Wagga Wagga, Dr Carr-Greg, suggested that parent responses to the following questions will help them know how their young person is doing:

  • Do they have friends?
  • Are they individuating from their adult carers?
  • Do they understand and enjoy school?
  • Do they have an interest that gives them joy or a spark?

As a parent/carer of a student at Mater Dei Catholic College, you have access to School TV which is a curated collection of mental health and wellbeing resources. This includes regular content from Dr Carr-Gregg, designed to support you to help your young person navigate their adolescence. If you have any concerns about the academic wellbeing of your child, please do not hesitate to contact me or their House Leader by phoning the College front office. 

 

Ms Anne Hodkinson | College Psychologist