Mental Health in Primary Schools

The Importance of Mental Health

Mental health is not just about mental illness and the stigma attached to it. Everyone sits at different points along the mental health continuum, and this can shift from day to day depending on what’s happening in our lives. We all experience ups and downs; some days feel easy and positive, while others can be more challenging due to stress, friendships, family situations or school pressures. Because of this, it’s important to look out for one another and take the time to check in on friends, even if they seem to be doing well. A simple conversation or kind gesture can make a meaningful difference.

Ways to support positive mental health:

• Talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling

• Spend time doing activities you enjoy

• Get plenty of sleep and rest

• Stay active and get outside for fresh air

• Practise gratitude by thinking about or writing down good things each day

• Take breaks when you feel overwhelmed

• Stay hydrated

Attached is some information about Melbourne Children’s Clinic, a counselling service designed to support students experiencing challenges with school attendance and participation. 

Katrina Gow, a counsellor specialising in school engagement, offers consultations with parents, focusing on practical, collaborative strategies to support children in returning to and engaging with school.

This service aims to complement the work of school wellbeing teams by supporting families to better understand and respond to the factors impacting attendance.