Years at school are critical for an individual’s development especially in relation to their mental health with 75% of mental health problems emerging before the age of 25.
Teachers and Principals have a valuable opportunity to cultivate a mentally healthy environment where students learn to develop the skills to become mentally resilient and healthy individuals. We have provided a database for educators to access a variety of mental health resources to keep informed on the latest trends and support their incorporation of mental health education into the classroom.
Student Survey – ReachOut Australia
A good way to start the year and demonstrate your value of connection with students is to get to know them and understand what challenges they may be facing. This information will assist in the planning and development of effective wellbeing programs that address interest, worries and methods of engagement specific to your students. In utilising this valuable resource educators will not only enhance their approaches to mental health but also establish a foundation for meaningful relationships with students throughout the year.
Find out more: https://schools.au.reachout.com/student-snapshot
75% of mental health problems emerging before the age of 25
HeadStrong – Black Dog Institute
A free, curriculum-aligned, online mental health program developed by the Black Dog Institute for teachers to help students build better mental health, reduce stigma, and improve overall well being.
The programme has undergone a comprehensive research trial which highlighted its ability to increase mental health literacy and reduce stigma.
The Headstrong resource:
- is linked to the Health and Physical Education curriculum for Years 9-10
- includes 5 modules that are split into a series of ready-to-use classroom activities and teacher development notes
- links directly to curriculum learning outcomes
- includes topics on depression and bipolar disorder, seeking help, helping others, and building wellbeing and resilience
- is complemented by MindStrength, a free online learning course to help young people build resilience.
Find out more: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/education-services/schools/school-resources/headstrong/
Be You – Beyond Blue
Be You is a free, flexible and accredited national mental health in education initiative delivered by Beyond Blue, in collaboration with Early Childhood Australia and headspace. It is designed to support educators cultivate a positive, inclusive and resilient learning community where everyone is empowered to achieve their best mental health.
The online platform provides educators with evidence-based tools, resources and professional learning that heighten their skills and knowledge on supporting mental health and wellbeing in young people. These resources include:
- Free professional learning through the Be You accredited framework
- Access to extensive tools and resources
- Resources that can support learning communities through critical incidents such as bushfires
- Evidence-informed approach to incorporate mental health into current education programs
Find out more: https://beyou.edu.au/
SAFEMinds (Schools And Families Enhancing Minds)
A professional learning and resource package for schools and families that enhances early intervention by teaching skills to identify children and young people with early signs of mental health issues, and offer them school-based interventions and/or external referrals.
SAFEMinds aims to:
- enhance early intervention mental health support for children and young people in schools; specifically regarding mild mood disorders (anxiety and depression) and self-harm,
- increase engagement of parents and carers with schools to more effectively support their child’s mental health;
- develop clear and effective referral pathways between schools and community youth and mental health services.
Find out more: https://safeminds.org.au/