Wellbeing

National Psychology Week

By Anne Way Email this article

This week marks the annual National Psychology Week, when the Australian Psychological Society (APS) focuses public attention on the role of Psychologists and the importance for all community members of maintaining good mental health and wellbeing.

Psychologists are experts in human behaviour and can assist with strategies that help to improve health and lifestyle. As full members of the APS and the associated College of Educational and Developmental Psychologists and the College of Clinical Psychologists, the Mercedes College Psychologists adhere to the APS professional practice guidelines to ensure that our service to students, parents and staff meets best practice standards.

During National Psychology Week, members of the public are encouraged to take the time to consider their own mental health and wellbeing, in particular ways to maintain and enhance wellbeing. To this end, you are invited to complete a brief online survey which has been developed by the APS in conjunction with the University of Melbourne Centre for Positive Psychology, for adults to determine their own level of wellbeing and life satisfaction and discover some practical strategies that may help to boost wellbeing.

This survey can be accessed until the close of business on Saturday November 12, by clicking here.

This is not a diagnostic measure and there is no “right” profile, however, the survey will provide a summary of how you are tracking against the five pillars of Positive Psychology or PERMA:

• Positive emotions – including feelings such as joy, satisfaction and calm.
• Engagement – being interested and involved in life.
• Relationships – feeling loved, valued and connected with others.
• Meaning – having a sense of direction and feeling that our lives are valuable, worthwhile and connected to something bigger than ourselves.
• Accomplishment – the belief and ability to do things that matter most to us, achieving goals and having a sense of mastery.

A summary of your responses will highlight your results relative to the Australian adult population, identify where there may be scope for improvement, and offer some practical ways in which to enhance your wellbeing.  

Should you have any concerns in relation to your wellbeing, you are encouraged to speak with your GP or access the APS Find a Psychologist service click here or telephone: 1800 333 497.

Consider conducting your own wellbeing check, the results may well prove a timely reminder of how we can take better care of ourselves in order to better care for our families and the children and young people in our care.

Anne Way
College Psychologist