Wellbeing Team

How Do We Support Distressed Students? 

We are all constantly trying to learn the secret that might be the breakthrough to reach every student. Unfortunately, we all also know there is simply not one way that works every time for every child. What can help is implementing a structure to how we respond to distress. The Three R's from Trauma Neuroscientist Dr. Bruce Perry have helped me strategise in the moment when working with students.

The Three R's:

Regulate

Establsh Environmental and Sensory Safety

(Create space, Allow time for processing, Clear the area of students and limit noise and light distraction)

-Limit your language

-Approach low and slow 

(No standing over students, if safe to do so, get to their level)

-Offer calm, comforting presence 

Relate

Emotional Safety

-"I know" "I get it" "I'm with you" or if they need space..."I'll be over here"

-Sometimes just a big exhale and modelling breathing or finding your own fidget tool to model without using any words can help

Reason

Reflect and Self Regulate

-Once regulated, we might be in a space to talk and better understand what happened. 

-"I'm wondering if you're ready to talk about it?"

-Validate feelings: "I'd feel really (frustrated/sad/angry etc.) too if..."

-Plan ahead by talking about which strategies they thought helped this time, or what could be used next time

It is SO normal to feel anxious or worried in the midst of dysregulation, but if we can present as regulated and following a plan students will be able to co-regulate with us. 

If you're not in the space to do this, seek support to help via your classroom team, buddy class, or if leadership support is required, the Emergency Line.

Available Support Services

EAP

A free and short term service delivered for the DE through an independent provider. It is strictly confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for Department of Education employees and immediate family members 18+ years. You can get up to 4 free sessions about personal or work related issues.

1300 361 008

Beyond Blue

This is a free 24/7 telephone and online counselling service available for everyone in Australia.

1300 224 636

Discussion with GP and development of a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP)

Book a ‘longer’ appointment with your GP to discuss the option to develop a Mental Health Treatment Plan.

For information about MHTPs please use the link or QR code below.

If you would like any more information regarding some available support services, please reach out to the Wellbeing Team.