Dear Parents,

The Victorian Government has begun to roll out a new initiative in schools called Mental Health in Primary Schools (MHiPS). This initiative will be rolled out over the next four years in different areas around Victoria. We have been very lucky to be in the first group and I have taken on the roll as the Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader (MHAWL) at St Mary’s. I will be adding information from time to time in our newsletters that may assist parents and families with any concerns they may have in regards to their child’s mental health and wellbeing. You can contact me to discuss my role further or if you would like any more information or to just to have a chat about your child. Here is a snippet of information from Melbourne University where I am currently completing four units of study for this role. I have also included some websites you might find useful in regards to childhood anxiety.

Over 8 percent of children aged 4-11 years have a diagnosed mental health disorder, and 20 percent of children experience mental health difficulties that inhibit their daily functioning. Mental health and wellbeing in primary school aged children is particularly complex, as it can be difficult to differentiate behaviours and emotions that are developmentally appropriate from those that require additional support. For those that do require additional support, it can be difficult for teachers and parents to understand how and where to access help.

In 2019, the Victorian Royal Commission into Mental Health explored and analysed how Victoria’s mental health system can effectively prevent mental illness, and deliver treatment, care and support so all Victorians can experience optimal mental health, now and into the future. A strong theme emerging from the Royal Commission interim report, released in November 2019, was that schools represent a key location for promoting good mental health, identifying signs and symptoms for those at risk of poor mental health, and supporting external referrals to community services for those students who require extra support.

In response to the needs, the Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), the Melbourne Graduate School of Education (MGSE) and the Victorian Department of Education partnered to develop a project aimed at building the capacity of Victorian Primary Schools to support the mental health and wellbeing of their students. This project was funded by the Ian Potter Foundation, Ross Trust and the Victorian Department of Education.

https://www.rch.org.au/anxiety/

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety-in-children

Thank you

Debra Owens