21/03/2024Mental Health & Wellbeing
The Mental Health Team at St James' Catholic High School consists of:
Ms V. Agolli - Designated Safeguarding Lead
Mrs F. Faucher - Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
Mr D. O'Brien - Teacher of RE, Mental Health Lead for KS3 & EPQ Coordinator
Miss L. Gardener - Teacher of RE & Mental Health Lead for KS4 & KS5
This core team are supported by a number of staff who have qualified as Mental Health First Aiders. These staff volunteer their time to check in with individual students who may be struggling with their mental health for any number of reasons.
It is our vision, and that of the entire staff body, that all students leave St James' as young men and women who:
- Are aware of what mental health is and what it means
- Understand what factors contribute to both positive and negative mental health
- Have the necessary skills to support those around them in managing their mental health
- Are resilient in times of challenge so that they can persevere in living life to the full.
The Mental Health Team run various events throughout the year to raise awareness of the importance of positive mental health for young people as well as using these to educate our students on how best they can become resilient young people, able to live life to the full. A timetable and summary of these events is found below.
What do we mean by “Mental health & wellbeing”?
Mental health and well-being refers to our ability to cope with life's stresses. Everyone has mental health and it can change from day to day. When someone is suffering from poor mental health they may feel like they cannot deal with things like going to work or socialising with friends and family. It’s important to know that we can improve our mental health by taking care of ourselves.
It’s just like our physical health. We may eat a balanced diet and exercise to keep healthy. Likewise, we need to use self-care to improve our mental health. Self-care could include things such as taking on new hobbies, spending time in nature, listening to our favourite music, making plans that you can look forward to etc.
Why is talking about Mental health & wellbeing so important?
It’s important to open up the discussion around mental health so that people feel comfortable sharing not just when their mental health is good, but also when they are struggling.
When we feel we can openly talk about problems we are then opening ourselves up to more support that can help us with the problems we are facing. Sometimes the support we need might just be a friendly ear from a friend or some advice. Other times we may need professional help through school, work, or the GP.
How does St. James support and promote good Mental health & well-being?
Promoting mental health and wellbeing is everyone's responsibility. From student well-being ambassadors who help support younger students, to pupil voice that allows students to voice any concerns. to staff who train to be Mental Health First Aiders and support pupils who may need someone to talk to.
We work with great external agencies in Barnet and neighbouring boroughs to provide a range of support to students. This could be 1:1 sessions, group sessions, home visits, online sessions and workshops.
Why is this important to St. James’?
Aside from being educators who are invested in our students, not just as pupils, but as people, we are also proud followers of the Catholic teachings that show us time and again that we can support one another's mental health by showing patience and kindness towards each other.
Colossians 3:12: Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience
