It is hard to believe that it is once again the time of year when I send this newsletter out but Christmas is certainly coming!

It is always a privilege and a pleasure to work with students, and their families, in the counselling setting. Whilst I am only able to provide sessions during term time, I am always encouraging students to apply what we talk about outside of school time as well.

Whether your child is engaged in counselling, or not, if you or someone you care about needs support and assistance over the summer holidays, the contact details below might be useful. I do hope that the Christmas period provides you with the chance to connect with family and friends, unwind and recharge, and do the things that make your heart sing.

You, or your child, can reach out and speak to trained mental health professionals via the following wellbeing and support services. These are just some of the many online services that support mental health.

- Youthline – 0800 376 633 or free text 234, plus there is a web chat option

- What's Up – 0800 942 8787 (Phone counselling for 5–18 year olds).

- Lifeline – 0800 543 354

- Need to talk? - free call or text 1737 support from a trained counsellor

- The Lowdown – 0800 111 757, email team@thelowdown.co.nz, free text 5626, plus there is a web chat option

- Traffic Light Wellbeing resource - provided by Pegasus Health, this resource provides links to a range of services which support different levels of wellbeing needs

If it is an emergency or you, or someone you know, is at immediate risk call 111.

Jenelle Hooson

Jenelle is a fully registered member with NZAC (New Zealand Association of Counsellors).

If you wish to discuss the services the School Counsellor can provide, please see your son’s homeroom teacher or Scott Johnson: scott.johnson@medbury.school.nz.