Mental health challenges among Australian youth have been rising in recent years. Recent statistics from Beyond Blue, reveal that one in seven Australian young people aged 4-17 experience a mental health condition in any given year and over half of all mental health issues emerge by the age of 14. According to the National Study of Mental Health and Well Being, in 2020–22, 26% of people aged 16–24 experienced high or very high psychological distress. These figures are a sobering reminder of the importance of nurturing a positive mental health environment both at school and at home.

R U OK Day, is a much needed reminder for us to focus on the mental health of ourselves and others, yet it should be our focus every day! As a Christian community that values supporting the needs of the whole child, it’s essential that we prioritise the mental health and well-being of our young people.

As Christians, we find comfort and strength in our faith. The Bible reminds us of the importance of gratitude and casting our worries upon Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 tells us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Teaching our children to focus on gratitude, to talk about their concerns and to know they can trust God with their worries, can provide them with both emotional and spiritual resilience. It is through this approach that we can help them develop strong mental health and navigate the challenges they may face.

I encourage those of us who are in a positive mental space, to offer our support to others. I also encourage those in our community who are going through a mentally tough time, to reach out to friends or professionals.

Follow this link for more information and support services:

SPECIAL REPORT: R U OK?Day | St Paul’s Lutheran Primary School - Henty (schooltv.me)

Yours in Christian service

Brad Moss

Principal