News from the College Counsellors

 

R U 🙂K?

This time last year, we were in the thick of remote learning and working-from-home. We are fortunate to have had little disruption this term to trial and preliminary examinations, graduation plans, and the usual school routine. That being said, there has been an increase in those needing help and support with mental ill-health, stress, anxiety and other psychological disorders.

With the annual R U OK? DAY campaign this week, it is a timely reminder to act on any concerns about our loved ones. Are you worried that someone you know or care about isn’t behaving as they normally would, or seem out of sorts? Are they more agitated or withdrawn? Trust your gut instinct and act on it.

You can learn more about the signs and when it’s time to ask R U OK? here. If you get a response like “yes, I’m fine” and your gut says they’re not, be honest about your concerns. These conversations can often feel too big for friends and family. We can show them they’re supported and encourage them to access help sooner through a trusted health professional like their doctor. 

If you  or a loved one need immediate support, Lifeline can provide a listening ear and telephone crisis support 24/7 on 13 11 14. Text support is also available on 0477 13 11 14.

Body Image and Eating Disorders Awareness Week

Australia’s major eating disorder organisations are encouraging people to know the signs of an eating disorder and to act early to prevent them from developing into an intractable illness. Eating disorders impact over one million Australians each year, and have one of the highest mortality rates of any mental illness. With only 1 in 10 Australians able to recognise the signs of an eating disorder, people urgently need to familiarise themselves with common symptoms, particularly as presentations of eating disorders and demand for services continue to grow with the pandemic.

Know the signs and find out more about early intervention at Butterfly.

Drug & Alcohol Counselling and Group programs

Catholic Care’s Family Recovery Program supports those affected by a loved one who may be using drugs and alcohol through the provision of digital and face-to-face counselling and groups.

To find out about upcoming groups, telehealth or phone counselling, or if you have any questions about the service, contact Costanza Ravanelli on 02 8723 2226 or email costanza.ravanelli@catholiccare.org.

If you have any concerns about your daughter that you would like to discuss, or for counselling or to arrange support, contact the College Counsellors via the House Coordinators, Leader of Wellbeing or directly through:

Miss Carly Boaler and Ms Louise Scuderi, College Counsellors

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #2, #6 & #8