Dear families,

You might be feeling exhausted, strung out, confused, overwhelmed, [insert your own describing word] and you might be thinking… “it’s only week 4!!”.

You are not alone, the last two years particularly, have left most of us in a bit of a spin and you might feel as though you are playing catch up with a constantly changing world, on top of everything else that we juggle on a day to day basis.

Self-care has never been more important for individuals and families to maintain health, reduce stress and enhance energy.

Having self-care as a priority for families helps parents become better carers and models positive behaviour for children to adopt once they become adults.

Choosing the self-care that works for you

Self-care strategies can be different for everyone, taking time for self-care is not always easy but a good start would be engaging in something small each day, week or month.

Some great tips from Reach Out suggests how you and your family can figure out the best options for everyone.

What self-care looks like for you?

• what activities make you feel good and recharged?
• What would you like to do more of?
• Are there any activities that you look forward to during the week?
• What would your ideal day look like? What activities would you do?

Commit to routine

It is important to also set out your individual self-care plans.

Put your individual self-care plans into the family planner and make it a priority.

It is important that self-care should be seen as an ongoing well-being strategy rather than to be used in the case of an emergency or when we are too overwhelmed.

For more information, please visit https://parents.au.reachout.com/skills-to-build/wellbeing/things-to-try-self-care/how-to-make-self-care-a-family-priority

Hi, my name is Mark Holberton and I am pleased to be working with the students, staff and families at Ss Peter and Paul’s. I am here to provide therapeutic counselling to students and families and to work alongside school staff regarding student welfare and classroom issues.

When will I be at the school: I will be at the school every Monday

How can you can refer your child to the student and Family Counsellor: Speak to your teacher, complete the online referral form, or email me at mark.holberton@catholiccare.cg.org.au.