Kambrya College Newsletter

Health/Wellbeing

 

Mental Health Awareness Month

October is Mental Health Month, and on Thursday 10th is World Mental Health Day. 

The theme for this year is “It’s time to prioritise mental health in the workplace.” 

 

While this message is especially relevant to the adults in our school community, it applies to students who may be balancing school with part-time work. Prioritising mental health is essential for everyone, and we encourage you to take steps to support your mental and emotional wellbeing, whether at school, work, or home. 

 

Prioritising Mental Health 

Mental health is just as important as physical health. When we prioritise our mental health, we improve our ability to cope with stress, increase our productivity, and enhance our overall quality of life. Whether you’re a student juggling schoolwork, a teacher managing a classroom, or a parent balancing work and family, it’s important to take care of your mental health. 

 

 

 

 

"Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what’s left of you."– Katie Reed  

 

 

 

 

For Students

Here are some tips to help prioritise your mental health: 

  • Take breaks: Whether you're studying or working, it's important to rest. Short breaks can help recharge your mind and improve focus. 
  • Stay connected: Make time for friends and family to maintain your support network. 
  • Manage your time: Create a balanced schedule that includes time for relaxation and hobbies. 

Ask for help: Don’t hesitate to speak to a teacher, sub school leader, or trusted adult if you're feeling overwhelmed.

 

 

"Rest is not a luxury. It’s a necessity."

– Anonymous  

 

For Parents, Carers, and Teachers 

Here are some ways to prioritise your mental health at work and at home: 

  • Set boundaries: Make time for yourself by setting clear boundaries between work and personal time. 
  • Self-care: Engage in activities that help you unwind and relax, whether it's reading, exercising, or spending time with loved ones. 
  • Seek support: Talk to colleagues, friends, or mental health professionals when you need assistance managing stress. 
  • Model self-care for students: By prioritising your own mental health, you’re setting a positive example for the young people around you. 

Support Services Available 

If you or someone you know needs support, there are services available: 

We encourage everyone to participate in World Mental Health Day/Month by: 

  • Wearing a green ribbon to show support for mental health awareness. 
  • Taking a moment to check in with yourself or others. How are you feeling? How can you prioritise mental health today? 

Encouraging conversations around mental health, especially with friends, colleagues, and loved ones. 

 

Final Thoughts 

As we move through Term 4, remember to take care of both your physical and mental health. Whether at school, work, or home, mental health matters. 

 

Warm regards,

The Wellbeing Team 

 

First Aid News 

Thunderstorm asthma – be prepared this pollen season.

Grass pollen season, which typically runs from October to December each year in Victoria, brings an increase in asthma and hay fever symptoms. It also increases the risk of thunderstorm asthma. For people with asthma or hay fever, especially those who experience wheezing or coughing with their hay fever, thunderstorm asthma can be sudden, serious, and even life threatening.

Kambrya will implement a range of measures to keep our school community safe as the risk of thunderstorm asthma increases: 

  • Many of our staff are trained in asthma first aid, and we will monitor the VicEmergency app to receive thunderstorm warnings and close all doors and windows.
  • ensure air conditioners are set to recirculate air, and not bring air in from outside.
  • where appropriate, keep students at risk of thunderstorm asthma indoors when weather forecasts identify greater risk. Please notify the school if you believe your child is at risk of thunderstorm asthma. 

During the season, there are some things you can do to prepare and protect yourself and your family:

  • If your child has ever had asthma, talk to your doctor about what you can do to help protect them from the risk of thunderstorm asthma this pollen season, including updating your asthma action plan. Taking an asthma preventer properly and regularly is key to preventing asthma, including thunderstorm asthma. 
  • If your child has hay fever, see your pharmacist or doctor for a hay fever treatment plan and check if you should have an asthma reliever puffer. These are available from a pharmacy without a prescription.
  • If your child has hay fever and experiences wheezing and coughing, it is important to make sure they do not also have asthma. Speak to your doctor about an asthma action plan. 
  • Where possible, avoid being outside during thunderstorms from October to December, especially during the wind gusts that come before the storm. Go inside and close your doors and windows. If you have your air conditioning on, turn it to ‘recirculate’.

Protect yourself this pollen season – managing asthma and allergies matters.

Find out more 

For more information, speak to your doctor. You can also visit the Better Health Channel website.

 

 

Nicole Topp

First Aid Officer