Season’s Greetings, the holidays are nearly here!

The summer break is a perfect time to relax and reset after a busy year – well done everyone – on all that has been achieved.  However, while the holiday gives us a chance to have some much-needed downtime, it is important that we give energy to taking care of our well-being over the break.

Be mindful to:

• Connect and spend time with friends – Connecting and socialising with friends and family is important for self-care. Not just connecting on social media but getting out and about and being around people.
• Head outdoors – Getting outside and spending time in nature is essential for mental well-being. Camping, hiking, or a day at the beach can be great for both the body and the mind.
• And not forgetting to be active! Exercise benefits both physical wellness and mental well-being. Whether it’s walking, swimming, cycling… do whatever you can and whatever you enjoy doing to keep active. The holidays can even be a great time to try something new.

For more ideas and information on nurturing mental well-being visit the Mental Health Foundation website at https://mentalhealth.org.nz/

Whatever you can do to shift your mood and nurture your well-being remember to keep checking in with yourself, have a plan for self-care, and be mindful to offer care to the people around you. This is especially important when we aren’t connecting at school like we can during term-time.   If you have concerns for changes in your child’s mood, behaviour, or they tell you they are struggling with their mental health please reach out to people around you for support, take them to the doctor (GP) for advice or contact one of these helplines below: 

National helplines

If it’s an emergency, dial 111.

You can get support through your Doctor/General Practitioner.

Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.

Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP).

Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO).

Healthline – 0800 611 116

Samaritans – 0800 726 666

https://mentalhealth.org.nz/helplines

Community Support

Catholic Social Service – 09 378 9650

Parish Contact Details

OLSOS – 09 534 8710

St Marks – 09 5769759

St Luke’s – 09 358 4750

Please note:  STYMIE (our anonymous reporting system) – will not be staffed during the holiday period and will only be checked sporadically however please use the helplines below if you or someone else needs support.  If you are seriously concerned about someone’s immediate safety call 111

Events and activities that can support wellness and mental well-being this summer…

Upcoming Events in Auckland South
https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/whatson/events/auckland-south

Upcoming Events in Auckland East
https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/whatson/events/auckland-east

Upcoming Events in Auckland
https://www.aucklandnz.com/visit/events

Auckland for Kids is a great parent resource for ideas to keep the kids entertained these school holidays
https://www.aucklandforkids.co.nz/

We look forward to seeing you all in 2024!  Stay safe and have a wonderful Christmas.

God Bless,
Pastoral Care Team