Journalling as a form of self-care

When and why?

Journalling is a powerful form of self-care for students, offering a simple yet effective way to manage stress and enhance mental well-being. Amid the pressures of academic deadlines, exams, and social challenges, students often face overwhelming emotions and thoughts. Writing in a journal provides a safe, private space to express these feelings, helping to process experiences and gain clarity.

The best times for journalling vary by individual, but many find it especially beneficial in the morning or before bed. Morning journalling can set a positive tone for the day by allowing students to organise their thoughts and set intentions. Evening journalling, on the other hand, offers a reflective moment to unwind, release worries, and celebrate achievements. Additionally, journalling can be a helpful tool during moments of anxiety or frustration, acting as an emotional outlet that promotes calm and focus.

Why journalling works as self-care lies in its ability to promote mindfulness and emotional awareness. By putting thoughts on paper, students can identify patterns, recognise stress triggers, and develop problem-solving strategies. This practice also encourages gratitude and self-compassion, which boosts resilience against academic and personal pressures. Ultimately, journalling helps students cultivate a healthier relationship with themselves, fostering growth, balance, and emotional strength throughout their educational journey.

The Wellbeing Support Service.

"Confidence and motivation are two critical ingredients for young people's success. Supporting your child to help nurture these qualities allows them to believe in their abilities and navigate life's challenges with resilience and a positive outlook."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg.

Confidence & Motivation

Building confidence and motivation in young people is essential for their overall wellbeing and is a key aspect of their development. These qualities can have a lasting impact on their success and happiness. Confidence helps children believe in their abilities and face challenges with a positive attitude, while motivation drives their desire to learn, explore, and achieve their goals.

Fostering these traits involves creating an environment that encourages children to take risks, learn from their mistakes, and celebrate their achievements. Confidence is built when children feel capable and valued, while motivation is fuelled by the belief that their efforts will lead to growth and success. By actively supporting both, we can help young people thrive in the academic, social, and personal areas of their life.

By offering positive reinforcement, setting realistic expectations, and celebrating their efforts, we can model a positive mindset that can go a long way in helping young people develop both confidence and motivation. Nurturing these qualities, will help them grow into self-assured individuals who believe in their ability to succeed, setting the foundation for a fulfilling future.

In this edition of SchoolTV, discover how to provide opportunities for autonomy and support your child in persevering through challenges.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV. If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact your child’s Head of House, Year 9 Director / Head of Community or Wellbeing Support Service for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to the Confidence & Motivation edition of SchoolTV:

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