Wellbeing
Student Wellbeing Team
During these challenging times the impact for us all is different. We are aware of the challenges to our students and families’ wellbeing during this time of extended lockdown. We know that it’s been tough for students who have been away from their social connections and daily routines. We encourage every student to take time to do something positive for their own wellbeing daily. Simple tasks like going for a walk, baking a cake, playing with your dog can shift your mindset to a positive outlook which is really important in these difficult times.
We have an amazing experienced Wellbeing Team that is here to help you get through these challenging times. They are available for a chat or a referral to a pathway of more intensive supports.
Our Wellbeing staff are contactable on Microsoft Teams chat or you can call the school on 9743 9210 to request a call back.
We would also like to take this opportunity to welcome Aloi (School Chaplain) to the team!
Tips to help families cope during lockdowns - Webinar
The University of Melbourne is hosting a webinar at 8:00pm on Monday, 30 August 2021 to help families manage the stresses of ongoing lockdowns. Register now.
The panel will include adolescent and family health experts from the University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital and private practice, along with a parent.
The panel will share insights, tips, and answers questions on tackling the mental health challenges so many parents and kids are facing right now.
For more information, please visit https://events.unimelb.edu.au/event/11736-tips-to-help-families-cope-during-lockdowns
Games or Gambling??
Telling the difference between games and gambling can be difficult
With thousands of free apps and video games available that mimic gambling it’s getting harder to work out the difference between gaming and gambling.
Gambling themed apps are widely available, and look fun and easy. Many use inflated odds, giving a false impression of how easy it is to win in real life.
On top of this, advertising on many of these apps and games leads to real gambling sites, creating an easy pathway from simulated gambling to actual gambling.
Video games like Grand Theft Auto and The Sims, and even complimentary games on Nintendo DS consoles, feature gambling by including casino and poker machine elements. Australian research shows teens playing these games may:
· think gambling is a normal, everyday activity
· be more inclined to take up gambling
· be more confident about winning due to false beliefs about gambling odds.
Even though teenagers can’t win real money from these apps or games, they can spend money on in-app purchases to boost their chances in the game. These often cost only a few dollars but a player who is completely absorbed can quickly rack up expenses.
Despite this, the good news is that you can help your child understand how gambling actually works. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to be an expert before you talk to your teenager. These games are constantly evolving and you can’t be expected to know every detail about them. The key is to talk to them about how these games make gambling feel normal and can be misleading about the chances of winning – so next time they come across one of these games, they’ll be more aware of the risks involved.
Ask your teen about the apps or games they like to play or have a look at the trending games on the App Store or Google Play together and see if you can spot any gambling-related features. Tell them these games might be using inflated odds to make it seem like it’s easy to win or mention how small in-app purchases can quickly add up.
For more information about games that look and feel like gambling and how to talk to your teen about them, go to www.lovethegame.vic.gov.au
Josie Mitchell, Secondary School Nurse
