Mental Health

R U OK? Signs of Depression in Children

by Melbourne Child Psychology & School Psychology Services

Thursday of last week was national “R U OK?” day — a day when we are inspired to meaningfully connect with the people around us who may be struggling.

“R U OK?” aims to support people suffering from mental health issues such as depression and anxiety by increasing awareness, encouraging friends and family to reach out, and teaching ways to help and support those around us.

45% of Australians will experience some form of mental illness in their lifetime, and one in seven will experience depression.

And while “R U OK?” has an emphasis on suicide prevention, it does bring up the important issue of being aware and open about mental health issues with those around us, and to take away the stigma from these increasingly common challenges.

So with that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the warning signs of depression in young people.

Mindful Pauses — How 30 Seconds of Meditation Can Help to Relieve Anxiety

by Melbourne Child Psychology & School Psychology Services

We recently discussed the benefits of mindfulness and meditation and how we use the principles with children in our counselling sessions.

And, while there’s many ways to practice meditation, the benefits of a few moments of meditation a day can go a very long way.

Meditation teacher Jon Krop has listed a few key ways that you or your kids can get some calm and quiet in your life every day, or whenever you need it.

It comes in the form of what he calls a ‘mindful pause’.

The Benefits of Mindfulness and Meditation For Kids and Adults Alike!

by Melbourne Child Psychology & School Psychology Services

Not too long ago meditation was thought of as some sort of mysterious ritual conducted in spiritual retreats, rather than at the doctor’s office or psychology clinic.

But in fact meditation and mindfulness are psychological processes and science has discovered many practical benefits to their practice.

Just like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy — one of the most extensively researched and practised psychological treatments — mindfulness addresses the connection between your thoughts, attitudes, behaviour and feelings.

And it can be particularly beneficial in the treatment of anxiety and depression.

So how do our psychologists use mindfulness and meditation in counselling sessions with children?

How a Child Psychologist Can Help Children Develop Lifelong Skills

by Melbourne Child Psychology & School Psychology Services

Parents often book in to see a child psychologist to address a pressing concern with their child.

For example, anxiety, separation, learning difficulties, or bullying in the school yard.

But seeing a psychologist — especially for kids — can also be great for prevention, instead of only being reactive when things are difficult.

And the benefits in terms of life skills learned, can be profound.

In a recent blog post we discussed the long-term benefits of early intervention in the treatment of anxiety.

But did you know that early intervention can also be very helpful for several other types of issues?

Here are three more important benefits to practical, solution-focused counselling for kids:

What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?

by Melbourne Child Psychology & School Psychology Services

If you’ve ever visited a psychologist, or even considered it, you’ve probably heard of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

And while the name might sound a little complex, it’s actually one of the most practical, simple, and commonly used approaches to dealing with many types of emotional, behavioural and psychiatric problems.

Plus there’s lots of scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.

But what is it, exactly?

What Can You Expect From Our Child Psychology Services?

by Melbourne Child Psychology & School Psychology Services

The first visit to a new psychologist can be a daunting experience. It’s completely natural to feel nervous about addressing your concerns head on with someone you’ve never met.

And this is especially true when it comes to a child psychologist who will be seeing your child or teenager.

But our clients typically find that taking that first step to come in for an initial 30 minute parent consultation is a very positive and productive step in the right direction.

And we’re here to make the experience as constructive and comfortable as possible.

So, what can you expect from a visit to our practice?

Anxiety in Younger Children – Why Early Intervention Matters

by Melbourne Child Psychology & School Psychology Services

You’re probably familiar with the term ‘early intervention’…

(Which means taking action as early as possible to support children’s physical, mental and emotional needs.)

Well, research has shown that dealing with child anxiety as soon as possible can be hugely beneficial…

And when early intervention is not applied?

This often leads to more serious anxiety related challenges in adolescence and adulthood…

So what does excessive child anxiety look like?

11 Symptoms of Anxiety in Children and 4 Steps to Help

by Melbourne Child Psychology & School Psychology Services

Anxiety is the most common challenge faced by children and adults alike.

And, if left unchecked, it can lead to debilitating problems that prevent children from reaching their full potential…

Sometimes anxiety is obvious but the symptoms can often be vague and develop gradually over time.

In fact, sometimes parents may not even be aware that a child’s difficulties are related to their anxiety…

New App May Help Teens Improve Mood

by Melbourne Child Psychology & School Psychology Services

Music is often suggested as a means to calm down or fall asleep, however now they are developing app that will help you gradually change your mood. An article in the Age by Hannah Francis has announced that Australian researchers have begun to develop an app that will assist teenagers to change their mood through music.

Why Do People Engage in Self-Harm?

by Melbourne Child Psychology & School Psychology Services

Counselling a child to help them to stop their self-harming behaviour is hard work.

Many bewildered parents and novice therapists are unaware of, or overlook, the fact that the behaviour has very powerful psycho-physiological rewards.

Self-harm (or self-injury) is known to slow down heart rate and breathing rates, and floods the body with feel-good endorphins.

How can we help?

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