Dear Parents and Carers of Good Samaritan

October is Mental Health month. We all have mental health; just like we all have physical health. Our state of mental health changes day to day and throughout the day. Like physical health, our mental health needs ongoing maintenance and care, and follow ups with health professionals when we feel it is starting to impact the way we go about our day to day activities. 

Throughout 2020 and the pandemic we have consistently been reminded about the importance of our mental health, the mental health of our children, our families and our workmates. I  have a good friend who is a Catholic school principal in Melbourne. This week the students of her school were allowed to return to school as restrictions are slowly lifting in Victoria. In a text she sent she said:

‘There’s so many mental health issues down here. The kids and teachers were so happy yesterday. (when they returned to school) I’m hoping  the positive mindset will sustain us. There is zero interaction between  staff. All must stay in  their safe bubble…’

I must say that reading this brought a tear to my eye. I cannot imagine how difficult it must have been to maintain and sustain remote learning for such a long period of time. I cannot imagine the anguish and loss that the staff,  families and students have felt for their school community. It  led me to reflect on  how important it is for our own mental health, and spiritual maturity, that comes with our care for one another.  

Our spirituality can bring a sense of security and our beliefs can be a strong coping mechanism through trying times. I am not implying that we drop to our knees in prayer when we feel upset, down or when we are concerned about someone else. What we can do is look to the traditions of  our faith and what they can tell us about what to do next. Benedictan spirituality requires an outreach to those in our families, neighbourhoods  and community whose needs may be greater than our own. It calls for attention to children, regular interaction with the elderly, and care for those whose conditions limit their own participation in the community. Whatever the situation, whatever the group, Benedict says we are called to build community with the entire community.

As we come back to school for the final term of 2020, take time to care for your own mental health, to reach out to others where you can and to always seek support if you need it. Remember that your doctor/GP is still the place to go for initial help for mental health concerns. 

As we journey together, with Jesus,

Toni Sillis

Principal