Student Wellbeing

WEEKLY WELLBEING ACTION  

''Find a new perspective on a problem you face."

NIP IT IN THE BUD! AN EARLY INTERVENTION APPROACH TO MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING

At Trinity, we understand the strong connection between learning and wellbeing, recognising that wellbeing underpins everything we do. When students feel safe, supported, connected and valued, they are better equipped to engage in learning and reach their full potential. We believe that wellbeing and mental health is everyone’s responsibility, and every member of our school community plays an important role in supporting our students. Recently, our staff have engaged in professional learning around the SAFEMinds NIP it in the Bud approach, strengthening our understanding of how to recognise and respond to early signs of mental health concerns. This learning supports us to identify concerns early, have supportive conversations and connect students with appropriate support, helping to create a school environment where every child feels safe, understood and empowered to thrive.

NIP stands for Notice, Inquire and Provide/Plan. It is a simple 3 step process to follow and supports the whole school community. It can help check in on a students wellbeing and mental health to manage risk. This approach shows care and helps students find ways to work through their challenges and, if required find care pathways that are suitable.

NOTICE: Notice changes in mood and behaviour that may indicate a child or young person is having difficulties managing emotional distress. This could be in academic, physical, verbal, mental and/or behavioural changes.

INQUIRE: Inquire sensitively and competently about the young person’s circumstances.

Examples of curious questioning could be: 

Hey I notice that you seem to have a lot on your mind,   

Can you tell me more about how things have been for you?

or

I haven’t seen your friends around much.                            

I’m wondering what’s been happening with them?

or

I’ve noticed you’ve been finding it hard to concentrate                

Tell me some of your thoughts why that might be?

Responding to students in a way that shows that you’re really listening has a big impact so validating their responses is important. This could be using an empathetic phrase such as:

• I can hear this is really tough for you
• I care about what you're going through
• Thanks so much for sharing that with me

PLAN:  Choose approppriate first steps or possible internal or external referrals to support the child.

If you would like to read more about SAFEMINDS and the NIP it in the bud approach, click into the link below:

                                                          https://safeminds.org.au/about/

                                        https://safeminds.org.au/schools/nip-it-in-the-bud/

If at any time you would like to chat about Student Wellbeing at Trinity, or you have any questions or concerns about your child, please do not hesitate to contact your child's teacher or me. 

hvarthalis@tcs.catholic.edu.au

Helen Varthalis

Wellbeing Leader