Shepparton students at higher risk of mental health issues

By James Bennett

Sep 4, 2019

Shepparton students are at greater risk of mental health issues than city students, according to the Australian Education Union.

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The union recently surveyed its members about the mental health of students and staff.

The AEU said about 25 per cent of staff in Shepparton believed students had timely access to mental health services compared to 38.6 per cent at metropolitan schools.

Other results included 80.4 per cent of non-metro staff across the state saying student wellbeing issues negatively affected student learning in 2018.

The union said more students in large regional Victorian towns were affected by trauma, drug and alcohol-related issues, and bullying.

“The results show this burden is particularly felt in regional and rural Victoria," AEU Victorian Branch president Meredith Peace said.

"Mental health issues can significantly affect a student’s short-term and long-term success.

"Many of these schools and students are in regional and rural Victoria. Real steps must be taken to address this ongoing cycle of disadvantage and to support the wellbeing of students.

"The more disadvantaged a student or school is, the less likely it is for them to be able to access appropriate and timely care."

By James Bennett

Journalist