Wellbeing
16 Days of Activism - Walk to Change the Story
On Saturday 25th November, staff members from the College participated in the Walk to Change the Story march, an event that promotes the safety of women and children, and helps to increase awareness of gendered violence. The event hosted by Gippsland Lakes Complete Health (GLCH) in partnership with 10 other community organisations and Respect Victoria, was well supported by the local community with over 300 people taking part.
WELLBEING TIPS FOR THE HOLIDAYS
EAT WELL
Holiday foods can be high in calories and low on the nutrition you need to battle germs and boost energy. It’s super important to have a good balanced diet with less of the bad things (like junk food and lots of sugar) and more of the good things (such as veggies, fruit, whole grains and water). Make it a priority to eat 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day. This can help with sleep, energy levels and general health and wellbeing. And don't give your exercise routine a holiday! Exercise gives you energy in addition to burning calories.
GET SOME ZZZs
Getting 8½ to 9 hours of sleep a night during the holidays can help strengthen your immune system, give you more energy, and make you less vulnerable to stress. A good night’s sleep helps you feel energised, focused and motivated. Developing a sleeping routine (even through the holidays) can help you sleep much better. Try to wake up around the same time each day, get out of bed as soon as you wake up and go to bed around the same time each night.
BEAT THE BLUES
Some people might feel down and lonely this time of the year. If you are feeling down, go outside! Sunlight and exercise are great mood lifters. Try a seasonal activity to put you in the holiday spirit. You can decorate, watch a holiday movie with family, or wrap gifts. And don't hesitate to talk to someone you trust, like a parent or friend, about how you're feeling.
BE SOCIALLY ACTIVE
Social relationships are really important to your general wellbeing especially when you’re not seeing your friends every day at school. Spending time with friends over the holidays is important to keep and build on existing friendships.
PLAY
Play is important for staying mentally healthy. Devoting time to just having fun can recharge your battery, revitalise your social networks and reduce stress and anxiety.
ACTIVITIES TO TRY OVER SUMMER
Explore - Make a list of places you would like to visit and/or things you would like to try. Take up a photography course or find another course that interests you.
Unleash your creativity - Get your creative juices flowing! Revamp your bedroom or create an art piece. Invite a friend over or ask a parent to help.
Get active - Get out on the oval and kick a footy with mates, check out the local skate park or go for walks along the beach or in the bush. Sunlight and exercise are great mood lifters.
Volunteer - Give back to the community and gain some great experience. Getting involved with volunteer organisation can help you feel connected to your wider community while also meeting new people.
Find a casual job - If you’re old enough, perhaps look for some casual employment that will allow you to earn extra pocket money, gain skills and meet new people.
Connect - Remember to also look out for your friends and loved ones and check in to see how they are doing. If you are worried about them, let them know that you are there to help.
Following are links to a few helpful websites you can reach out to if you need support:
eHeadspace - headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation
Kids Helpline - Kids Helpline | Phone Counselling Service | 1800 55 1800
Lifeline - Lifeline Australia - 13 11 14 - Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention.
Beyond Blue - Beyond Blue | 24/7 Support for Anxiety, Depression and Suicide Prevention
QLife (anonymous and free LGBTQIA+ support) - QLife - Support and Referrals
ReachOut - A Safe Place to Chat Anonymously, Get Support & Feel Better | ReachOut Australia
Raising Children - Teens mental health: services and links | Raising Children Network
SELF-CARE BINGO FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Happy holidays from the Wellbeing Team! We hop the holidays fills you up with all the things that mean the most to you and energizes you for a happy and healthy new year. Take care everyone and we look forward to seeing you all in 2024!