Wellbeing

The global pandemic is having a profound impact on our adolescents with many being forced to miss out on so many rites of passage. Some are becoming more anxious or depressed which is completely understandable given the current situation. However, should your daughter display any unusual behaviour that lasts for more than 2-3 weeks, it may be a cause for concern.

 

Research shows there are specific risk factors that increase the likelihood of teenagers developing a mental health problem. Some are set in stone, whilst others are modifiable. Adolescents are considered to be more at risk of anxiety and depression disorders which may affect their mood, thinking and behaviour. It can impact their ability to function and perform normal activities.

 

It is therefore vitally important for parents to remain vigilant during this time for any signs of distress, even though your adolescent may not have any prior history of a mental health disorder. Early intervention, diagnosis and treatment is more important than ever. In the current climate, one useful thing you can do is help your teen focus on the things that they can control –– such as their learning, diet, exercise and sleep.

 

In this Special Report, parents will be provided with a checklist that can be used a guide in determining if there is any cause for concern. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.

 

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

 

Here is the link to your special report:

https://killester.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-wellbeing-checklist-secondary

 

 

Wellbeing Support for Students at Killester

There are a number of ways students and parents can access Wellbeing Support:

  • Students can email a trusted teacher.
  • Students and Parents can contact their Homeroom Teacher or Student Development Leader.
  • During this School Closure period, student’s complete wellbeing check- in forms and attend online Homeroom sessions twice per week.
  • Students can be referred by teachers to our Wellbeing Team (Student Counsellors) for specialized support.
  • The Wellbeing Team may assist with a referral to an external service.  Access to the service (in a timely manner), expertise of the service, parent support and the ability of the student to attend will determine this referral.
  • Counselling with the Wellbeing Team will be conducted via Telehealth with parental consent. Students or parents can contact their Homeroom Teacher or Student Development Leaders to initiate this process.  An initial assessment will be made to determine Counselling support.

There are many online support services that students and parents can access for advice- see below:

 

Wishing families all the best during this time. 

Regards

Luana Doko

Student Wellbeing Leader