Mental Health in Primary Schools
Mental health refers to an individual’s emotional, psychological and social wellbeing. It can have an impact on a child’s ability to function in daily life affecting how they think, feel and act.
Many factors contribute to child’s mental health such as biological factors, life experiences, as well as family history. It is important at every stage of life, from childhood, to adolescence, through to adulthood. Research shows that children with good mental health increase their ability to learn, be creative and more productive.
In this edition of SchoolTV - Trauma
Children and teens will experience events during their lives that will affect them emotionally and physically. How they react to these events depends on their age, personality and past experiences. Children can experience strong feelings of fear, sadness, guilt, anger or grief, making it difficult for them to cope with everyday life.
There are a number of ways that parents and care givers can support children after a traumatic event. Your reaction to an event, will impact your child’s ability to cope and recover. Children will look to the adults in their lives to help them better understand a traumatic event so it is important to ‘tune in’ to their fears and provide them with the comfort and support they need.
In this edition of SchoolTV, parents will learn how to gain a better understanding of trauma and how it affects children of all ages.
We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV and we always welcome your feedback. If you have any concerns about your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.
Here is the link to the Trauma edition of SchoolTV
https://stclaresofficer.catholic.schooltv.me/newsletter/trauma
Immediate Crisis Support in Australia:
1800RESPECT - https://www.1800respect.org.au/
Kids Helpline - https://kidshelpline.com.au/get-help/webchat-counselling
Liz Hunt
Mental Health in Primary School Leader