World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day is marked every year on 10 October as a reminder of the importance of mental health to our overall wellbeing. It is a day that encourages families, schools, workplaces and communities across the globe to start conversations, reduce stigma and highlight the support available for those who may be struggling.
Mental health challenges can affect anyone: children, teens, and adults alike. Recognising this helps us create more compassionate and supportive environments.
Parents and caregivers play a central role in shaping the mental health of their children.
World Mental Health Day is an opportunity to pause and reflect on the pressures young people face in today's world and how we can best support them. Whether it's helping children find balance between school, technology, and rest; encouraging open conversations about feelings; or modelling healthy coping strategies ourselves - small steps at home can make a big difference.
By engaging with resources and discussions on this day, families can strengthen their understanding of mental health and contribute to a culture where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness.
This Special Report highlights the importance of World Mental Health Day and offers practical suggestions for how your family can acknowledge and support it together.
Here is the link to your Special Report https://notredame.vic.schooltv...
Year 12 Exam Stress
Students in their final year of school are considered a high-risk group for depression and anxiety. Sleep deprivation, diet and social media are some of the biggest issues faced by this group of teens. Therefore, it is vitally important that a student’s mental health is looked after as well as their physical health.
Keeping things in perspective for students and parents alike, can help prevent everyone getting overwhelmed. Although this final year is important, it will not be the most important year of your child’s life.
There are many strategies that students can implement to help themselves. Parents can provide support, not only emotionally, but also practically by keeping their child well-nourished and encouraging physical activity.
In this special report, parents will find useful tips to support their child during this often stressful time.
We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report. 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.
“Parents should offer emotional and practical support to children, without creating undue stress about academic performance. This will help them to maintain perspective and focus during exam time.”
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
Healthy Study Habits
In today's world, where distractions are abundant and the pressure to excel is high, guiding children to develop healthy study habits is more important than ever. As students aspire to achieve academic success, the cornerstone of that achievement lies not just in their intelligence or drive, but in the study habits they cultivate.
It's essential for students to recognise that good study habits aren't merely about spending extra hours hitting the books. It's more about quality over quantity and having a more balanced approach. Emphasising the value of a routine is essential. Consistent study times establish a sense of structure and discipline, turning studying into a natural part of their daily routine rather than a burdensome task.
Additionally, how students approach their study sessions is equally important. Taking regular breaks is a crucial part of this process in maintaining focus and preventing burnout.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, and consistent physical activity are indispensable elements that will significantly impact your child's ability to study effectively. Fostering these healthy habits is one of the most valuable gifts we can offer children, paving the way for a lifetime of learning and achievement.
This Special Report will help you support your young person as they embark on studying for exams.
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.