Wellbeing News
Life is not always easy and there are many external factors that often impact on our life and
our general wellbeing. This is the same for our children as they not only navigate the physical and emotional changes of adolescence; but they face the challenges of the “friendship jungle” which is full of peer and relationship issues, juggle a busy academic routine along with commitments both at school and within their home and sometimes, including a part time job. As adults we have all these challenges and so much more to deal with daily however our neurological functioning is developed fully and allows us to usually handle these situations. Sometimes we must prioritise, sometimes we may ask for assistance and sometimes we might just have to implement boundaries as part of our own selfcare.
Throughout your child’s life they will be tested and perhaps face adversity and disappointment however these challenges, along with a growth mind set, plus some support from safe and trusted adults will allow them to navigate the journey and develop resilience. It is this trait that with allow them to manage future obstacles in life with positivity and confidence; knowing that challenges will pass and there is always an option or an alternate pathway. Studies identify that five ways to build resilience include developing positive relationships, taking care of your physical and mental health, finding purpose and a sense of meaning, embracing and adapting to change, and learning from challenges and past experiences.
As we prepare to farewell our year 12 students, I wish to remind them that they are embarking on the next chapter in life, it will be an exciting chapter filled with challenges and new experiences, but it is only part of their story, and their story is still being written. Regardless of their exam results they are all amazing, enthusiastic young adults and the best part of their journey is yet to come.
During our recent R U OK Day activities, I invited our MCC staff for an afternoon tea where we could enjoy each other’s company and check in with each other in an informal setting whilst reminding people of our connection, sense of community and belonging. I also took the opportunity to distribute tiny, yellow ducks and affirmation cards as a reminder to everyone that we are all part of a bigger picture and travelling down the river of life.
Sometimes the waters are smooth, sometimes raging rapids with unforeseen obstacles, sometimes only a minute flow but always moving forward, never staying stuck or in the past.
Like our little yellow plastic ducks we are resilient, we continue to navigate and adapt to change, encounter, but successfully overcome obstacles whilst continuing to move forward. I like to think we have a little piece of a tiny yellow duck within us all!!!!
Happy holidays and stay safe,
Sue Hone
(Student Wellbeing Support Worker)