WELLBEING NEWS

TOP 10 SIGNS YOUR TEEN MAY BE STRUGGLING

While some changes in behaviour are a natural part of adolescence, others may indicate deeper challenges. Here are the wellbeing teams top 10 signs to look out for: 

1. Withdrawal from family or friends – Avoiding social situations or spending much more time alone. 
2. Mood changes – Persistent sadness, irritability, or mood swings that feel unusual for your teen. 
3. Drop in school performance – Skipping classes, missing assignments, or showing a lack of interest in schoolwork. 
4. Sleep issues – Trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping excessively. 
5. Loss of motivation or interest – No longer enjoying hobbies, sports, or goals they once cared about. 
6. Changes in appetite or weight – Noticeable eating pattern changes, sudden weight gain or loss. 
7. Increased screen time – Excessive use of devices, particularly in isolation or at night. 
8. Frequent physical complaints – Regular headaches, stomach aches, or fatigue without a medical reason. 
9. Negative self-talk – Expressing hopelessness, low self-worth, or feeling overwhelmed. 
10. Risky or out-of-character behaviour – Acting out, breaking rules or using substances.  

How You Can Support Your Teen 

One of the most effective ways to support your teen’s wellbeing is by encouraging a daily routine — consistent sleep, nutritious meals, and dedicated study time can really help reduce stress and improve focus. Keeping communication open is equally important. Car rides are often a great opportunity to check in with your teen — less eye contact and fewer distractions can make it easier for them to open up. And when it comes to screen time, suggest outdoor activities or shared hobbies that gently shift focus, without it feeling like you're "taking screens away." 

If you’re worried about your teen or notice some of the signs mentioned above, please feel free to reach out to our wellbeing team to discuss how we can support your family. 

Supporting our community

Each month, our Wellbeing Team delivers food hampers to families within our school community who may need a little extra support. These hampers are supplied through Foodbank, an important organisation dedicated to helping families access food.

We’d like to sincerely thank the Tierney Family and some anonymous community members for their generous recent food donations. Your kindness truly makes a difference.

If you’re able to donate non-perishable food items, please get in touch with our Wellbeing Team to arrange your contribution. Likewise, if your family requires food assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Remember, every donation—no matter the size—counts!