From the Wellness Centre
I wish to share a stunning article from the magazine Independence (Vol 49 - No 1 - May 2024) by Michael Carr-Gregg. And there are some updates on the training courses which I’ve been promoting lately, as well as recognition of IDAHOBIT Day tomorrow.
Keeping Our Children and Young People Safe
This is the title of an interview with the venerable Michael Carr-Gregg in a recent edition of Independence, which I commend to you, with urgency and passion. The article may be found here. Some key quotes follow:
“I firmly believe there is no learning in schools if there is no well-being. When a person presents with cancer or another physical problem, we don't say snap out of it.”
“We need all generations to understand mental health issues, and parents and grandparents (and policymakers) to be up to date with modern culture. All generations need to be aware of issues surrounding sexuality, autism, ADHD, vaping and anxiety-based school refusal.”
“Young people face immense challenges in negotiating the 21st century: increasing anxiety and depression, lack of support, substance abuse, lack of access to quality education, lack of quality jobs, social pressures, mobile phones, social media and unsafe and neglectful home environments, just to name a few.”
“One in seven primary students and one in four secondary students suffer from mental health issues; and since 2019, there has been an up to 60% increase in suicide ideation and self-harm.”
“With social media young people have access to all the information in the world. While there are positives in how much they can learn and discuss, it is vital they are taught safe, smart, responsible use of media and are protected from online violence. One example of how technology can be used for good is The Brave Program developed by a team of researchers from the University of Queensland, Griffith University and the University of Southern QLD. The program has been specifically designed to teach young people the skills they need to reduce anxiety and to cope with stressful situations. The self-directed therapy programme is freely available online in four separate programs.” (brave4you.)
“My years of research have led me to believe that children should not have access to social media without a digital licence and they should not be allowed to get a licence until they are 13. Parents must be involved in the use of technology by their children and put barriers and restrictions around their use. I strongly recommend both the Alannah & Madeline Foundation program and the digital licence.”
Digital Licence+ helps students… | Alannah & Madeline Foundation (alannahandmadeline.org.au)
“For teachers (and parents) the most important thing they can do is look after their own mental health. Then they need to be role models in character and behaviour and they must interact effectively with students of diverse backgrounds. They need to have deep understanding of subject matter but also know that students have different needs. They must make learning exciting and teach in ways that are relevant and interesting to all students.”
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg (michaelcarrgregg.com)
Updates on Training Opportunities – Venues and Numbers
Youth MHFA Training
There are three places left for this course.
Later this term, on two consecutive Fridays (see flyers) GSG is hosting and sponsoring, with Palmerston, this essential training.
Please let me know via email if you have any questions and/or wish to register your attendance.
When: Fridays 7 and 14 June from 9.15am to 4.00pm
Where: Motel Le Grande, 479 Albany Highway, Orana, Albany
Why: to learn about Adolescent age/stage phases; mental challenges of youth; and to build personal confidence in having a wellbeing conversation
Cost: Free
How to register: sheryl.moncur@gsg.wa.edu.au by the last week in May
Conversations about Non-Suicidal Self-Injury
There are six places left for this course
Again, in partnership with Palmerston, this four-hour course is being offered on this term.
When: Tuesday 28 May 9.30am to 2.00pm
Where: Beryl Grant Centre, Townsend Road, Lockyer
Why: to learn why young people self-injure and to understand up to date support options
Cost: Free
See the flyer for details.
Thriving Boys
WEBINAR: Helping Boys Thrive at School – Overcoming Setbacks, Building Confidence and Cultivating Resilience
Still room for a few more attendees for this GSG Chat and Chomp Event
As per last week’s column, I am excited to offer this worthwhile opportunity. I have unlimited access to this webinar and would really like to share it with GSG community. Both Maggie Dent and Susan Stiffelman are beacons in the world of child and adolescent well-being and parenting.
If you would like to participate in an afternoon of camaraderie and a little learning, please e-mail me at sheryl.moncur@gsg.wa.edu.au to register your interest and for catering and seating purposes. I will send each participant and e-mail closer to the date with details of the venue and also asking for any dietary requirements.
Maggie Dent - Home | Resources for those who live & work with children
When: Friday 31 May 1.00pm to 3.15pm
Where: GSG in a room TBA
Why: Adult learning is fantastic
Albany Pride
This Friday 17 May is IDAHOBIT Day – International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia. 17 May marks the date in 1990 that homosexuality was removed from the WHO Classification of Diseases.
LGBTQIA+ people in Australia today continue to experience disproportionate rates of bullying, harassment and discrimination. Two in three LFBTQIA+ youth experience abuse due to their identity. And 35% of LGBTQIA+ Australians have experienced verbal abuse in the past twelve months.
IDAHOBIT Day exposes, and challenges, this discrimination and also paves the path of acceptance and celebration of diversity.
GSG fully supports this celebration.
Stay safe, supportive and curious.
Ms Sheryl Moncur | School Counsellor/Teacher