Student Wellbeing 2
Dealing with Anxiety
Almost the end of term, and what a term it has been!
I am sure that many of you have found yourself questioning, worrying and shaking your head in dismay at the current situation unfolding all around the world. It seems every time we turn the TV on or check our social media we a flooded with updates on the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Just visiting the supermarket has turned in to a mission on itself.
It's important to remember that during these times our children are also exposed to all this information, be it through the media, a trip to the supermarket or when talking to their friends, COVID-19 is a hot topic.
It can be hard at times like this to find the right words to express to our children what is happening and to put them at ease. Below I have provided some useful resources to help you discuss this issue with your children. They have questions, concerns and thoughts that need to be heard and addressed in a way that supports them to find the positives in such a turbulent time.
Here at St Joseph's, we are working hard to maintain consistency where possible to students daily routines and to encourage healthy habits, and we encourage you to do the same.
If you feel you need support or would like to discuss any concerns regarding your child's health or wellbeing please feel free to contact any of the wonderful staff here at St Joseph's and we will do our utmost to support you and your family.
For the moment Bridget our Linking Families consultant will not be attending face to face meetings at school however she is available by phone if you feel this is the support you require. Please let me know and I can pass on her number to you which you can message to arrange a suitable time to call.
As always you can contact me through the office by leaving a message or by emailing me lobrien@sjyarrajunction.catholic.edu.au
Some Useful Links
- the Australian Psychological Society’s advice for maintaining positive mental health during the coronavirus outbreak
- Beyond Blue’s information about mental health in relation to the coronavirus, facts about anxiety, and other practical advice and resources at www.beyondblue.org.au
- the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) Melbourne’s keeping healthy and staying safe video with Infectious Diseases Physician Dr Andrew Daley
- headspace’s information for young people and Tips to maintain a healthy headspace.
Helping your children understand Coronavirus
Leading adolescent and child psychologist Michael Carr-Gregg has provided great advice to parents on how to help their child’s anxiety about the spread of the coronavirus, in a special video report produced by SchoolTV, kindly made available to the The Parents’ Website community.
Click here to view the SchoolTV video.