Welcome back to Term 2.  I hope everyone had a holy and restful break.

Over the holidays many students took part in ANZAC day services around the Eurobodalla. Some students attended Dawn Services whilst others marched proudly in the memory of those who have given so much to serve our country. The College had great representation at many services held all through our local area which reflects the diversity of our College community. Thank you to all those who took the time to also attended services whilst away on holiday.

On Thursday at Assembly we took some time to explore some of the history of ANZAC day and to highlight the support and roles that women and families played in supporting the soldiers. Often they can be overlooked in stories and memorials. The life of those left behind in Australia was particularly hard, especially when those serving abroad came back with severe mental trauma with no support for the returned servicemen and women, their families and a culture in which it was not discussed and hidden away.

Mental health and wellbeing are more freely discussed and supported now more than any time in history. There is still though much work to be done as research uncovers ways we can support each other and our young people and their development.

As a College last week we were fortunate to have direct feedback into the provisions of mental health services in the South Coast region as part of a state-wide review into service provision and funding allocation. Some students from the College were able to give feedback as part of a forum on current service provisions, what could be done to support young people better, current services they have or use and discussion on how they currently manage their mental health.

The students responded with honest and thoughtful answers, and gave the review service much to think about, especially with their thoughts around what could be done to support young people and their families better in the local area. They were able to outline practical ideas around what services could look like and the correct locations in our local area to access support.

On Friday, I was invited back for input into a discussion with service providers and have further input into the provision of needs to support mental health services. The group was presented with some statistics on the mental health of young people in the local area. It showed an alarming need for further services in the Eurobodalla, with the coming Federal Election parties all promising an increase in funding to support mental health in this area which is promising no matter who is elected.

Boys, in particular, need all of our support with regards to their mental health. There is still a reluctance for them to discuss concerns when they are not travelling well, particularly at the point where early intervention and support may stop problems from developing further. This is something we are aware of as a College and are working to put a plan in place. In partnership with families, we can help and support our young men. The best way to support young people is to start conversations about mental health at home. Young people are very open and honest about where they struggle and need support; even small check-ins daily make a huge impact.

The College has many resources to support students, families and advise parents in how to support young people and their mental health and wellbeing. There are a large number of online resources than can be accessed online or over the phone.

The College has additionally partnered with an online service provision which allows students and families access to online counsellors and psychologist sessions via skype with the referral from their local GP. This services is accessible through Medicare and provided by onPysch. Their website is found here www.onPsych.com.au.  If you would like further confidential information please contact myself or Naomi Bee, College Counsellor, and referral forms can be sent through. I will also arrange to have these forms put on the College website in the near future.

Please contact the College if you have any concerns with support needed for students around mental health. Early intervention is vitally important in supporting young people as well as strong support networks between home and school.

Nathan Mansfield

Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care