Student mental health and wellbeing
Schools support student's social and emotional wellbeing when it is impacting on their education. You should speak with a healthcare provider when mental health concerns are ongoing or require support outside of school.
When to let the school know
You or your child can let the school know if they’re having difficulties coping.
Signs that your child might not be coping can include ongoing:
- school refusal – not wanting to go to school
- sadness – feeling down or hopeless
- anxiety or stress – excessive worry
- social withdrawal – avoiding friends or activities previously enjoyed
- unexplained symptoms of not feeling well – headaches, stomach aches or fatigue
- negative talk – struggling to maintain a positive self-image.
How the school can help
Schools support student's social and emotional wellbeing through:
- teaching social and emotional skills through curriculum
- implementing whole school approaches to wellbeing, like the Be You program or establishing a school wellbeing team
- connecting students and families to support services, which may include those offered by the school, by Student Wellbeing and Inclusion Program and Services (SWIPS) or by external providers.
The school can also review whether accommodations or adjustments to school work are needed to support your child’s wellbeing.
Student Wellbeing Officers (SWOs)
Some schools are piloting SWOs.
SWOs can help support their school's wellbeing and inclusion programs and provide additional help and resources by collaborating with:
- senior teachers
- occupational therapists
- speech pathologists
- psychologists
- social workers
- school counsellors
- external and other government agencies.
With a particular focus on early intervention they also provide support by:
- helping students in managing their social interactions and emotional health
- offering guidance on how to seek help
- conducting mindfulness activities
- organising lunchtime groups
- facilitating workshops.
- informing the school community about available services,
- working with teachers to support wellbeing in the classroom.
Parent or carer consent
You will need to consent to your child receiving one-to-one support.
The students information will remain confidential unless the student would like the SWO to disclose information to parents or carers or the school to support their learning.
Duty of care will override confidentiality if there are health or safety concerns.
Support outside of school
Outside of school support is available for you and your child.
Go to Health Direct to find:
Speak with your GP to be connected with local services for ongoing support.