Pastoral Care and Wellbeing
Wellbeing Information
Building and maintaining good social/emotional and mental health is something that is of paramount importance.
Whilst this is a topic that nowadays is often discussed widely in many settings, in general we still have a long way to go when it comes to implementing good mental health practices. This is backed up by current AIHW statistics that suggest high prevalence mental health incidence is on the rise. Whilst navigating our way through a pandemic is bound to have an impact on people, there are many factors that contribute to levels of social/emotional and mental health.
In order to improve or maintain physical health, we often have a plan. One that might involve exercise, dieting or nutritional plans, check-ups with health professionals and medical intervention when needed. Like anything that is worth achieving, a little time and effort may be required to ensure a healthy level of social/emotional and mental wellbeing is achieved and maintained.
How often do we consider a plan to support our mental health? A plan that might identify goals, set boundaries, promote routine and structure, build motivation and help you to determine how you achieve optimum wellbeing.
Below are some links that can get you started, please don’t hesitate to contact wellbeing@sje.vic.edu.au for more info.
https://schools.au.reachout.com/articles/developing-a-self-care-plan
R U OK? Day
Collective Social/Emotional and Mental is a community effort, and we all need to look out for our friends and loved ones on some level.
R U OK? is a harm prevention charity that encourages people to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through difficult times in their lives.
Thursday September 9 2021 is R U OK? Day. St Joseph’s College will be running activities for staff and students to promote RU Ok Day? and educate people on how to start a conversation that could change a life. To learn more about R U OK? visithttps://www.ruok.org.au/
Riding the Corona Coaster on SchoolTV
For most of this year, families have been navigating the ups and downs of a new reality involving remote learning, working from home and lots of family time. The latest turmoil is focused on Victoria, with the state being in various stages of lockdown. However, a second wave of the pandemic is starting to impact other areas of Australia and New Zealand.
Young people may find this second lockdown more challenging than the first with many mental health professionals concerned about an increase in youth anxiety, depression and substance abuse. Adult carers are encouraged to take the lead by being pro-active in creating a scenario where everyone at home can be less anxious and better organised. As a family, it is important to focus on what worked, and what didn't work, last time.
Adult carers may see this as an opportunity to teach their kids the skills required to manage uncertainty in order to become more resilient. Communication will be key –– finding out what they know, understanding what they need to feel safe and helping them focus on the things they can control.
Please consider, if you or a family member is struggling, consult a medical professional.
In Australia, support is also available through Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or via the website www.kidshelpline.com.au
Alternatively, contact the Beyond Blue Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service on 1800 51 23 48 or go to the website www.coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au
Please look at the resources available on our SchoolTV site:
https://sje.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-riding-corona-coaster
If we can assist further in any way, please contact wellbeing@sje.vic.edu.au
Rach Chapman
College Leader ~ Pastoral Care and Wellbeing and The Wellbeing Team wellbeing@sje.vic.edu.au