This week, the College proudly joined thousands of schools, workplaces and communities across Australia in recognising R U OK? Week, a national initiative that encourages meaningful conversations and highlights the powerful role that connection, care and support play in promoting wellbeing.
At Brigidine, R U OK? Week was about more than raising awareness. It was an opportunity to come together as a community, reflect on the importance of wellbeing and strengthen the connections that help us thrive. Central to this year’s message is the theme “R U OK? Any Day”, a reminder that meaningful conversations should not be limited to a single day on the calendar. By noticing when someone may need support, asking how they are really doing, listening without judgement, and encouraging them to seek help when needed, we create a culture where everyone feels seen, valued and connected.
Throughout the week, students participated in mentor-led initiatives and a variety of lunchtime activities designed to foster connection and encourage open conversations. The highlight was undoubtedly our annual R U OK? Brekky, held yesterday morning and thoughtfully prepared and served by our talented Hospitality students and staff. Despite the chilly weather, students and staff gathered as one community to share breakfast, check in with one another, and celebrate the importance of belonging.
Following breakfast, Bowie Hall became a space for powerful storytelling and learning as our whole school community attended an inspiring Q&A panel featuring a remarkable group of guest speakers. We were privileged to welcome Eliza Charlett from the Butterfly Foundation, Nick Crott from PAVE, a Northern Beaches mentoring organisation that supports young people to build confidence, resilience, wellbeing and academic success, and our Year 11 student representative, Mary Formston, whose thoughtful reflections highlighted the importance of student voice in conversations about wellbeing.
It was also wonderful to reconnect with members of our Brigidine alumni community who generously shared their professional insights and personal experiences. We were delighted to welcome back Sally Thompson (Class of 2000), National Wellbeing Lead, Performance Pathway at Tennis Australia, along with Alyssa Grady (Class of 2017), now working as a psychologist at headspace. Their journeys beyond Brigidine were a powerful reminder that compassion, service and connection remain at the heart of their work and their lives.
One of the most important messages to emerge from the Q&A was that while challenges are an inevitable part of life, no one should have to face them alone. Looking after our own wellbeing is essential. Prioritising rest, physical activity, healthy habits, reflection and trusted relationships helps build resilience, while checking in on those around us ensures that support is available when it is needed most.
We also explored the signs that someone may be struggling. These can often be subtle, such as withdrawing from friends, changes in mood, disrupted sleep patterns, or a noticeable loss of motivation. Learning to recognise these signs, both in ourselves and others, enables us to respond with compassion and seek support early.
As part of our discussion, we reflected on the growing influence of social media and screen-based technologies on young people’s lives. While technology offers valuable opportunities for connection, learning and creativity, it can also contribute to feelings of anxiety, social comparison and disconnection when not used mindfully.
At a time when so much communication occurs online, it is worth remembering that some of life’s most meaningful moments happen face-to-face. A genuine conversation, a smile of encouragement, sharing a laugh, or simply sitting alongside someone can foster empathy, trust and belonging in ways that technology cannot fully replace. The message of “R U OK? Any Day” reminds us that these everyday moments of connection matter.
As a Brigidine community, there are practical ways we can continue to nurture wellbeing beyond this week:
- Ask “R U OK?” and be prepared to genuinely listen.
- Prioritise healthy routines, including adequate sleep, regular movement and time away from screens.
- Invest in meaningful relationships by spending quality time with friends and family.
- Seek support when needed and encourage others to do the same.
- Make use of the wellbeing resources and support networks available within our College community.
- Always remember that kindness trumps judgement. A simple act of compassion or a genuine conversation can make a significant difference in someone’s day.
An ice-bucket challenge was organised by our Year 11 Student Leaders. The purpose of the initiative was more than just a bit of fun. Cold water can act as a circuit breaker when we’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or caught in anxious thought patterns. The sudden sensation helps shift our attention to the present moment and can encourage our nervous system to reset and regulate. Just as cold water can interrupt unhelpful thought cycles, a simple conversation can interrupt someone’s struggle and help them feel seen, heard and supported.
Although R U OK? Week has ended, its message continues. “R U OK? Any Day” reminds us that wellbeing is everyone’s responsibility, every day. Through genuine conversations, empathy and meaningful connections, we can help build a stronger and more compassionate community. These simple yet powerful actions reflect the values at the heart of a Brigidine education, encouraging students to demonstrate kindness, respect, courage and responsibility in their daily interactions. By checking in on one another and taking the time to listen, we put character into action and reinforce the important message that a single conversation can make a genuine difference in someone’s life.
Mrs Sia Mastro
Director Student Wellbeing
