Looking after yourself during the Christmas School Holidays
The Christmas holidays are the perfect time for everyone to relax, recharge, and prepare for the year ahead. After a busy term of exams, assignments, and co-curricular activities, the break offers a chance to for students to focus on their wellbeing and have fun. Below are some tips on how to make the most of it:
Rest and recharge
The holiday break is an ideal opportunity to catch up on sleep. Rest is essential for both mental and physical health, helping to restore energy and improve focus. Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep each night to feel refreshed and ready for the challenges ahead.
Stay active
While rest is important, physical activity is key to maintaining your energy and mood. Exercise helps improve mental health and boosts your overall wellbeing. Whether it’s walking, bike riding, shooting hoops or even dancing, find activities that you enjoy to keep moving during the break.
Stay connected
Spending time with family and friends is essential for emotional wellbeing. Meaningful interactions with loved ones not only strengthen relationships but also provide support and joy, contributing to a healthier, more balanced mindset.
Make time for fun
The holidays are also a great chance to try new hobbies, explore new places, or simply enjoy downtime. Having fun and creating positive memories will help you return to school feeling refreshed and motivated for the year ahead.
Enjoy your well-deserved break and Merry Christmas!
From the Wellbeing Team.
There are a wide range of services available over this period that you are able to contact if you become concerned about your child’s mental health:
Your GP
Lifeline: A crisis support service that provides short term support at any time for people who are having difficulty coping or staying safe.13 11 14www.lifeline.org.au
The Butterfly Foundation: Our national eating disorder service when you need someone to understand what you’re going through, or feel heard, or practice new skills they provide counselling support1800 ED HOPE (1800 33 4673)
Kids Helpline: A free, private and confidential phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25 years old1800 33 1800www.kidshelpline.com.au
Beyond Blue: Provides support on a range of mental health issues and is available via phone, online via chat or email1300 22 4636 www.beyondblue.org.au
CYMHS Box Hill – 1300 721 927 – should you need immediate support over the break. CYMHS is a specialist mental health service for children and young people up to the age of 25 years who are displaying symptoms of psychiatric disorder or severe emotional and behavioural disturbance.
