Tuesday, October 10, was the UN-designated ‘World Mental Health Day’. Their slogan was ‘Mental health is a universal human right’. Here is a link to their site, which will provide more detailed information: United Nations World Mental Health Day 2023
We’re all increasingly aware that mental health is essential for overall wellbeing. The World Health Organisation’s definition of mental health is:
‘Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. It is an integral component of health and well-being that underpins our individual and collective abilities to make decisions, build relationships and shape the world we live in’. (WHO Mental wellbeing resources for the public)
We know from experts at Australian organisations such as ‘Beyond Blue’ that mental health is ‘more than just talking about mental health conditions, like anxiety or depression’. Research by their team indicates that good mental health is linked to:
- Improved learning
- Creativity
- Higher levels of productivity
- Better social relationships
- Good physical health
- We have increased life expectancy.
Mental Health Australia Report
The recent ‘Mental Health Australia Report to the Nation’ (Mental Health Australia Report to the Nation September 2023)provides us with some reassuring insights, though young people continue to need consistent support from family, friends and trusted adults.
At ISWA, we have always prioritised students. This is evidenced in our commitment to the Visible Wellbeing programme, which permeates all interactions and underpins every aspect of the curriculum.
Every classroom and homeroom teacher takes responsibility for the students in their care. Additionally, our counsellor and psychologist work collaboratively with colleagues, parents and students in a myriad ways, each day. The warm, aesthetically pleasing Wellbeing Space is one manifestation of our collective commitment to ensuring students feel connected to our community and that they have opportunities to thrive. Appointments can be made with me (Schoolcounsellor@iswa.wa.edu.au) or our psychologist, Susan Wilson (schoolpsychologist@iswa.wa.edu.au), who is on campus Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
May Term Two be a productive, memorable one for us all.
Christine Rowlands – School Counsellor
