The Healthy Minds Program is a major component of the Year 8 Ethics Curriculum. Developed by Dr Tom Nehmy, and delivered by experienced psychologists, this evidence-based program has been developed through years of research at Flinders University. It is a cutting-edge approach to preventative psychology, and building resilience, wellbeing and performance throughout all stages of life.
The Healthy Minds Program strives to help young people by reducing a major, broad risk factor (unhelpful perfectionism), building a major, broad protective factor (self-compassion) as well as teaching some crucial psychological skills for mental health and wellbeing. Studies have shown that young people who have, and use, the skills of effective emotion regulation are much less likely to experience psychological difficulties and more likely to perform to the best of their abilities in their academic and recreational pursuits.
Throughout Semester 1, Clinical Psychologist, Dr Jennifer Wilson, will deliver fortnightly presentations to students. Topics presented will then be explored further in House Groups through discussion and activities facilitated by the Heads of House.
In addition, Year 8 Parents are invited to attend Dr Nehmy’s introduction to the program next Monday 15 February at 6 pm in the Louise McDonald Room, Science Learning Centre. Parents will also be able to access fortnightly modules to complement student learning. The first module is now available on the Year 8 Year Level page on Minerva.
The School is always looking for new and improved ways to best support our students through the Student Care Program. The Healthy Minds Program was a welcome addition to the Year 8 Ethics Curriculum in 2020, and it is unique in the way that it includes students, teachers and parents in the delivery of its content.
Mrs Violet Ross
Year 8 Ethics Coordinator and Head of Woolcock House
