From the Wellbeing Team
October is Mental Health Month. This is an important moment to raise awareness of mental health, reduce stigma and encourage people to seek support when they need it. It’s also an opportunity to pause, check in with ourselves and those around us, and reflect on how we can look after our own mental health and wellbeing. This year’s theme is Together We Thrive. It recognises that while life can often feel overwhelming, connection remains one of the most powerful ways to support our mental health and wellbeing.
Pope Leo XIV has dedicated his October prayer intention to “mental health ministry,” calling on communities to become places where people are welcomed, listened to and supported without judgment.
Reducing judgement around mental health involves creating a safe, supportive environment where people feel comfortable expressing their emotions and seeking help. Parents and carers can foster connection with their young person in conversations related to their mental health by:
- Prioritise connection over judgement: Young people are more likely to seek support when they feel understood, accepted and safe.
- Being curious: Seeking to understand what is behind a young person's behaviour rather than making assumptions.
- Validating feelings: Acknowledging emotions without minimising or dismissing their experiences.
- Challenging stereotypes: Recognising that mental health difficulties are not signs of weakness, laziness or poor character.
- Listening before fixing: Allowing young people to feel heard before offering advice or solutions.
- Normalising mental health conversations: Talking openly about emotions and modelling healthy coping strategies.
- Encouraging help-seeking: Reinforcing that accessing support is a strength.
During Mental Health Month, we encourage students and families to reflect on ways to support their own wellbeing and that of others. The attached Mental Health Australia calendar provides daily ideas and wellbeing resources for practical ways to support mental health. We encourage you to explore these resources with your young person and consider how you might incorporate some of the ideas into your daily routine.
If you are concerned about your young person's wellbeing, please reach out to their Year Level Leader or College Wellbeing team, GP or a mental health professional who can help address concerns before they become more significant.
From the College Wellbeing Team.