Chaplain's Corner

By now most of us are starting to find our way back into a bit of a routine, and as more restrictions ease we are settling into our ‘new’ normal for now. For me the lifting of the masks was a highlight!

This term I have enjoyed heading out to many a café or restaurant. I have caught up with my family and friends, and sport is back! However, I am a little concerned that many of us have dived straight back into everything with too much enthusiasm, and there is a very real chance that we might forget that we have been living at a very different pace for much of last year. Our bodies and our minds might not be able to keep up. Particularly as a parent, caring for others. So over the school holidays, let’s try to make some time and space for a little bit of self care.

Here are a few tips to remind us not to jump into everything too quickly, and to still prioritise our mental health. 

Mental health and wellness tips:

1. Eat healthy 

2. Get enough sleep 

3. Exercise 

4. Smile and laugh as often as you can 

5. Do something for someone else 

6. Spend time with a pet 

7. Accept sad feelings, but say “this will pass too” 

8. Make a list, and tick something off. Even a small task makes you feel like 

you have achieved something 

9. Hang out with people who are positive 

10. Take time out for you, read a book, go for a walk, and breathe deeply. 

If you are really struggling you can call Lifeline on 131 114, or Beyond Blue on 

1300 224 636. If your children are struggling, they can call Kids Helpline on 1800 

551 800 or Youth Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636. 

Enjoy the break, and please do remember to take care of yourself. If we do not take care of ourselves, it is much harder to take care of others. We cannot pour out of an empty bucket. 

Please let me know if you would like any additional resources regarding mental health issues, I would love to support you in any way that I can. 

“Although no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.” – Carl Bard 

Have a great week!

Carly

Pastoral Care for the BPS Community, available Thursdays and Fridays

carly.cassidy@education.vic.gov.au

0438 319 064