Deputy Principal - Student Development & Wellbeing
Annette Butterworth
This week we look at managing the overwhelm. It seems that we are living in a world where anxiety and depression are not experienced by the minority but an ever increasing majority. We are quick to blame social media and the digital landscape and in some cases we would be validated in so doing. But perhaps the best question to ask is what we are doing to ensure that we are countering any influence of technology by ‘consciously and intentionally learning good wellbeing strategies’?
In the relevant article in SchoolTV this week, they report that the reason for an increased and prolonged sense of overwhelming feelings is because our brains are not evolving fast enough to adapt to the digital landscape in which we find ourselves. This can often leave us feeling overwhelmed and result in increased levels of stress and anxiety’, They add that such levels of stress and anxiety ‘if untreated or unmanaged… can lead to a number of behavioural issues or health consequences’. But what do we need to do?
I have been writing Parent Corner articles since its conception over 15 years ago and it seems that we are repeating the same messages for wellbeing. As a school we value the consistency in messaging around getting plenty of sleep, eating healthily, regular exercise, relaxation and practicing gratitude. But there comes a point where we need to take our responsibility for our children’s wellbeing more seriously by being the role models for what healthy coping skills can look like.
So how do we do this?
According to Madeline Langham in her Discovery Mood and Anxiety Program, we need to be modelling healthy coping skills. Children for the most are products of their upbringing so if going for walks, deep breathing, taking time out to enjoy a hobby are part of your regime then this is something that they will see as important and a normal part of life.
In addition to modelling healthy coping skills, it is useful to ensure that there are clear routines and expectations in the household. Whether your child lives in one household or two, creating a general routine and schedule around dinner time, homework and downtime can help to minimalize feelings of frustration from both parents and children.
Another action that can encourage healthy minds is being able to regularly talk about emotions and feelings. It is ok for us to share our own feelings of frustration but it is even more encouraging to talk to your children about how you dealt with that stressful meeting or a frustrating co-worker. Our young people need to know that relationship challenges are part of life and it is how we deal with them in a positive and respectful way that matters most.
Finally, don’t be afraid to get professional help if it is needed. You don’t have to have all the answers and in fact it would be just as detrimental to your health and that of your child to assume you do. While there are people ready and willing to support your child at Mount Alvernia, sometimes it may take a little more consistency from outside support to achieve a return to a positive and healthy mindset.
Annette Butterworth
Deputy Principal - Student Development & Wellbeing