As we head towards the end of term two I have been reflecting on the important connections that we all have here in our SOHS school community.

It certainly takes a village! One Sunday recently I bumped into a previous parent and we got to talking about a way that he is supporting one of our current students through work experience. It made me think about the numerous conversations in the supermarket, on the sidelines, sports fields, cultural events where we connect. Lucy Hone, a leading resilience researcher has said 'resilience resources don't exist within us but between us.' We build resources together over time through the connections that we make with one another. In a small rural community such as South Otago the connections that we have, build and strengthen together can help and support us all through tough times. 

There is a wealth of information out there to help support us in our roles as we help young people. 

The useful guide 'Supporting a young person experiencing mental distress' for parents and supporters of young people 12+  includes some helpful tips from the mental health foundation. www.mentalhealth.org.nz

Adolescence is a period of growth and change, young people can face many pressures and challenges, they experience their feelings a lot more strongly than adults. 

Remember that the young person is going through difficult changes in a complex world, let them know you are there for them.- Keep connected. Experiencing mental distress is not anyone's fault and it is important not to blame or judge. Try to listen with an open mind, make a plan to have regular check-ins. Find support yourself, look after yourself to make sure you have the energy, time and perspective to be there for them. Set boundaries, you can't do everything. Be clear about what you can offer and when to ask for help from others.

Strategies for young people

• remind them they are not alone
• reach out to someone that they trust for help
• it can be hard to see that things will get better, remember their strengths and what brings them joy
• make a plan for difficult times
• look after health eating, sleep, stay active, daily routine
• connect, spend time doing things that bring purpose and joy, each little bit helps

When to seek help

• experiencing distress that lasts longer than 4 weeks
• isolating from friends and peers
• no longer enjoying activities they normally would
• anxiety that stops them from doing things
• changing eating habits
• difficulty managing emotions and expressing anger in ways that can harm themselves and others
• self harm
• expressing suicidal thoughts

If you are concerned about your young person picking a private moment when you are both calm, don't be scared to ask them outright how they are. Let them know that you will be there to support them no matter what. 

If you are worried or feel your young person needs more support, reach out to people and services around you. 

• Call 1737 anytime 
• mentalhealth.org.nz/helplines to talk things through confidentially. 
• Contact the school
• GP, HIP youth health services can be found at wellbeingsupport.health.nz 
• The GP or HIP can assess whether your young person needs to be referred to specialist mental health services. 
• Able Minds- support workers are free, confidential, mobile and can help. To learn more or self refer 0800 494262 www.able.org.nz

Online tools

smallsteps.org.nz   justathought.co.nz    thelowdown.co.nz  headstrong.org.nz

ngā mihi nui

Cath Bloxham

Guidance Counsellor