4. Be active: Being active makes you feel good and releases stress. Discover activities that suit your mobility, fitness, and interests. Don't sit at break times. Ride a bike or walk to school (if you can). Join sports teams at school or outside of school. Take part in school activities. Do outside activities at home - like gardening.

5. Use and develop your skills: These skills can make the way ahead less difficult: good communication, getting on with others, conflict resolution, managing strong emotions, problem solving, decision making, goal setting, planning, and knowing how to ask for help. Seek guidance, advice, and insight from others you respect and trust.

You can get in touch with me via email: merv.ellis@johnpaul.ac.nz or there are forms and a drop box outside my office near L2. There is also a copy of my timetable on my office door so you can see what times I have set aside for counselling. We do have options for you to get help you need here on the coast and can explore those with you.

Youthline 0800 637 366 (txt 234) Need to talk? – 1737 (Call or txt)

Merv Ellis