Wellness Tips

If your child is feeling anxious about the upcoming residential trip, here are some mental wellness tips to help them manage their anxiety:

1. Learn about the trip: Understanding the details of the trip, such as the schedule, activities and accommodation, can provide a sense of control and reduce anxiety. Learners should reach out to their teachers or trip organisers to gather as much information as possible.

2. Plan and prepare: Creating a checklist and packing well in advance can help learners feel organised and in control. Encourage them to pack essentials, like clothing, toiletries and any necessary medications, early to avoid last minute stress.

3. Visualise Success: Visualisation is a powerful technique for reducing anxiety. Learners can close their eyes and imagine themselves participating in the trip, having fun, and successfully navigating any challenges they might face.

4. Deep breathing: Teach learners to use deep breathing exercises to calm their nervous system. Show them how to take slow, deep breaths in through their nose and out through their mouth.

5. Peer support: Encourage learners to talk to their classmates who may also be feeling anxious. Sharing their worries with peers can help normalise their feelings and create a sense of camaraderie and support among the group.

6. Positive affirmations: Recommend repeating positive affirmations daily. These affirmations can help shift their mindset from a negative to a positive one. For example, they can say to themselves "I am capable of handling this trip" or "I am excited for new experiences"

7. Seek Guidance: If anxiety persists or becomes overwhelming, advise learners to reach out for guidance. Counsellors and teachers can provide valuable support and strategies for managing anxiety. They may also offer reassurance and help learners develop coping mechanism.