Wellbeing
Looking After Youth Mental Health Over the School Holidays
As Term One comes to an end, the school holidays provide an important opportunity for young people to rest, recharge and reset. While a break from school can be exciting, too much unstructured time can sometimes affect mood, motivation and wellbeing. Maintaining a few simple routines over the holidays can make a big difference to young people’s mental health. Below are some strategies to keep in mind over the holidays:
Keep a Consistent Routine
Young people benefit from predictability and routine. While it is important to allow time for rest and flexibility during the holidays, trying to maintain regular times for sleeping, waking, meals and activities can help support:
- Better mood and emotional regulation
- Improved sleep and energy levels
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- A smoother transition back to school in Term Two
Even simple routines, such as getting up at a similar time each day, eating meals together, or setting aside time for hobbies and relaxation, can help young people feel more settled and connected.
Get Outside and Enjoy Some Fresh Air
Spending time outdoors has many benefits for mental health and wellbeing. Fresh air, sunshine and movement can help young people feel calmer, happier and more energised. Research shows that time outdoors can:
- Improve mood and reduce stress
- Increase concentration and motivation
- Support better sleep
- Encourage physical activity and social connection
Whether it is going for a walk, visiting a park, riding a bike, spending time at the beach, playing sport, or simply sitting outside with family and friends, getting outdoors each day can have a positive impact.
Stay Connected
The holidays are also a valuable time to stay connected with family, friends and supportive adults. Taking time to talk, share meals, play games, or spend quality time together can strengthen relationships and help young people feel supported.
Encouraging young people to speak openly about how they are feeling, while also checking in regularly, can make a significant difference.
Looking Ahead to Term Two
We would like to thank the parents and guardians who attended the recent online workshop, Introducing the Wellbeing Team and the School’s Wellbeing Framework. We appreciate your time, interest and valuable contribution.
For families who were unable to attend, the workshop slides are available here. We welcome your feedback, questions and suggestions, including any wellbeing topics, concerns, or workshop ideas you would like covered in future newsletters or sessions. You can contact the Wellbeing Team via email at wellbeing@whsc.vic.edu.au.
We wish you a restful and enjoyable term break and hope you have the opportunity to relax and recharge. We look forward to welcoming students and families back and reconnecting in Term Two.
We encourage parents and carers to communicate with the school early in Term Two if any mental health concerns arise during the holidays. Early communication allows the Wellbeing Team to provide prompt support as students return to school.
If any concerns arise during the school holidays, families are encouraged to refer to Department of Education wellbeing resources here