Wellbeing

Embracing Support: The Power of Reaching Out

Progressing through the stages of development, from infancy to young adulthood, growing humans have asked for help and support for so many key moments. From an out-stretched hand as a toddler learns to walk, to a teenager asking for help to learn how to drive a car. As humans, we often learn by asking for help from others, so that we can learn new skills and abilities for ourselves. This poses the question; Why do we stop asking for help and support when we need it? 

Why Seek Support?

The Wellbeing team at MECS aims to provide safe opportunities for students to reach out for support in times of need, whether it be mental, social or emotional. It’s our privilege to help break the stigma of it being 'weak to speak' by normalising asking for help and highlighting the benefits of reaching out for support from professionals such as counsellors, psychologists and GPs. 

Seeking support allows individuals to gain different perspectives, learn new coping mechanisms, and develop resilience when facing challenges. Accessing support helps to foster a sense of connection and belonging, as individuals realise they are not alone in their struggles.

Sometimes, professional support doesn’t help or is hard to access; however, the need for community support remains. Reach Out is one of Australia’s online community supports that is available, with a focus on supporting young people (and parents/caregivers) around their mental health. Reach Out have great advice on how you can support your kids and/or empower them to look out for others, see below for some helpful advice.

How to Reach Out? (Author: Reach Out)

Initiate a Conversation

• Ask directly: "Are you OK?" – Give them permission to say, “I’m not ok”.
• Offer your time to talk – Be ready to listen.
• Maintain eye contact and positive body language.

Starting the Conversation

• Use open-ended questions.
• Address your observations: "You seem down/worried/stressed. Have you talked to anyone about it?"
• Offer support options: "Lots of people go through tough times. Have you considered seeking help from a doctor or counsellor?"

Listening Skills

• Be open-minded and non-judgmental.
• Be patient and let them take their time.
• Avoid giving advice and focus on helping them figure out what's best for them.

Encouragement

• Encourage physical health: regular exercise, nutritious diet, and sleep.
• Encourage seeking professional help from doctors or counsellors.
• Encourage self-care practices.

What Not to Do

• Don't pressure them to 'snap out of it'.
• Don't avoid them or tell them to stay busy.
• Don't suggest alcohol or drugs as coping mechanisms.
• Don't assume the problem will disappear on its own.
• For more information, support or resources visit https://au.reachout.com/. Encourage your children to look through the website together and go through it with them.

Peter Owen

Secondary Wellbeing Officer