At St Vincent’s Catholic Primary School, we remain committed to supporting the emotional health and wellbeing of all our pupils, parents and staff. We understand that everyone experiences challenges in life that can make us vulnerable and at times, anyone may need additional support in some way. We take the view that positive mental health is everybody’s business and that we all have a role to play.
This term we introduced Wellbeing Wednesdays, weekly pre-recorded themed wellbeing lessons and live wellbeing catch-ups for pupils. We were so pleased with the overwhelming positive feedback regarding Wellbeing Wednesday that we have decided to make them a weekly afternoon feature, every Wednesday.
Why not try one of the breathing techniques taught in our weekly pre-recorded wellbeing lessons?
Rainbow breathing
Arms start at the side of your body; arms go up as you breathe in and go down as you breathe out (arms make a rainbow).
Triangle breathing
Start at the bottom left of the triangle. Breathe in for three counts as you trace the first side of the triangle. Hold your breath for three counts as you trace the second side of the triangle. Breathe out for three counts as you trace the final side of the triangle. You have just completed one deep breath.
Children’s Mental Health Week
From 1st – 7th February we have been participating in Children’s Mental Health Week and encouraging all children (and adults) to explore the different ways we can express ourselves, and the creative ways that we can share our feelings, our thoughts and our ideas.
Further Support
If you or someone you know needs help right now please speak to us and/or one of the following organisations that are available free of charge:
Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families
A children’s charity dedicated to providing training & support for child mental health services. The Anna Freud Centre Crisis Messenger text service is a free, confidential, 24/7 text message support service for anyone who is feeling overwhelmed or is struggling to cope. The service is staffed by trained volunteers who will work with you to take your next steps towards feeling better.
They can help with issues such as anxiety, worry, panic attacks, bullying and depression and are there to talk at any time of day or night. If you need support, you can text AFC to 85258.
Mind
A mental health charity. Mind have a Mental Health Support Team Infoline that provides parents with advice and signposting information for families in Westminster. If you need support, you can call 07786 548530 Monday to Friday, 9 am -4 pm (excluding Wednesdays).
Suggestions?
If you have any comments or suggestions about our Mental Health and Wellbeing curriculum, please let Mrs Duffy know via the school office email office@stvincentsprimary.org.uk