Helping girls fight stress

A free seven-week after-school anxiety and stress management program will be offered to girls during term four.
Called #Stressdump, the program is open to local schoolgirls in Years 7 and 8. It will run for seven weeks, beginning on 24 October and incorporates a range of fun activities including exercise sessions at YMCA Casey ARC.
Angel Light Link support groups are facilitated by counsellors and are focused on improving well-being, helping teens learn coping skills and understand how to manage stress and anxiety in a safe and friendly environment.
The sessions at Casey ARC are a key component of the program and are aimed at encouraging girls to be physically active to improve well-being.
Angel Light Link Director Sally McCracken said it was important to have YMCA Casey on board in support of the program.
“There is a clear relationship between keeping physically active and promoting well-being. As well as having a healthy lifestyle, exercise can assist young people to improve sleep, increase self-esteem, and feel better from the release of endorphins and serotonin,” she said.
Students do not need a mental health treatment plan or any diagnosis to participate in the program. Parents or young people can self-refer and the program can also take referrals from school staff or agencies.
Bookings are essential for the program and can be made by calling 9796 5054 or emailing info@angellightlink.org.