Wellbeing News - National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence. 

Today is the National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence. The eSafety Commissioner, along with Beyond Blue, headspace and Kids Helpline, is supporting the National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence. 

The theme of 2023 is ‘Growing Connections’. This theme supports research findings that strong school community connections and social skills are protective factors in the prevention of bullying and help enable positive, help-seeking behaviours in students. 

For more information go to: National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence (bullyingnoway.gov.au)

On Thursday 17th August, WHSC students got together and participated in a number of activities to raise awareness about taking action against bullying and violence. Some of the activities included drawing creative and inspiring images on the school pavement around stopping violence and bullying. 

Although these activities may seem small, but for students who experience bullying and violence in their lives, these small actions can speak volumes and lets them know that there is someone out there listening. 

The Wellbeing hub is a space for students to turn to should they need help in any area of Wellbeing, including bullying and violence. The Wellbeing hub is located in the main staff building, near the canteen. 

SPECIAL REPORT: Bullying 

Bullying is an ongoing or repeated misuse of power in relationships, with the intention to cause deliberate psychological harm. Bullying behaviours can be verbal, physical or social. It can happen in person or online, via various digital platforms and devices and it can be obvious or hidden. Bullying in any form or for any reason can have immediate, medium and long-term effects on those involved, including bystanders.

Despite the efforts made to reduce bullying behaviours, the research tells us that one in four students still report being bullied every few weeks. However, not all negative behaviour should be considered bullying. The key difference is that bullying does not stop on its own. It’s important young people learn how to identify behaviours that are rude, behaviours that are mean, and behaviours that are related to bullying. Often the reasons for bullying can be complex. 

Some young people do it to get approval from others, some do it to regain control, whilst others may do it because it makes them feel safe. Supporting young people as they work through their emotions will help them unpack the motivation and reason behind the behaviour. In this edition of SchoolTV, caregivers can better understand why some young people engage in bullying behaviours and what to do to support a child experiencing it. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this month’s edition, and we always welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help. Here is the link to this month's edition  https://whsc.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/bullying

You can access WHSC’s Bullying Prevention Policy here: https://www.whsc.vic.edu.au/page/15/College-Documents,-Policies-&-Uniform

Fosia Mohamud

Mental Health Practitioner