"Harmony Week is all about celebrating the fact that Australia is one of the most multicultural countries in the world. Our diversity is a great strength and helps us do things in different ways, reduce discrimination and accept difference."
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
"Social media influencers often present a highly curated and filtered version of their lives, showcasing only the positive aspects. This can create unrealistic beauty standards, success and happiness for children. Constant exposure to this may lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-worth and dissatisfaction."
Dr Emma Woodward
"Critics argue that there is no evidence that a mobile phone ban is effective. However, this is a mischaracterisation of evidence. Peer reviewed literature shows that there would be a number of positive impacts for students relating to such bans at school."
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
"Teenage gatherings provide important opportunities for young people to mix and gain experiences in social situations. However, it is possible for the best young person to get carried away by their peers and the euphoria of the moment."
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
"NAIDOC week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is celebrated by all Australians and is a great opportunity to learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities."
Dyonne Anderson
“The evidence show us that having a supportive discussion about a stressful event can actually decrease a young person’s distress. Answering their questions honestly will help them process any difficult emotions that may arise."
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
“As human beings, our brains haven’t evolved fast enough to adapt to the digital world that we now live in. This means that the overload of messages that we receive through ever-present media platforms often results in stress, anxiety, and overwhelm."
Dr Emma Woodward
“Vaping is quickly becoming an epidemic due to the ease of accessing and hiding vapes. This trendy, but risk-taking activity, is causing significant peer pressure and there is mounting evidence that long-term repeated use of e-cigarettes will cause lung injury and respiratory symptoms."
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
“Consent must be mutual and freely given. An informed decision made without pressure, guilt or threats. There must a clear understanding of what is about to happen. Without consent, sexual activity is an offence and against the law, and it must be given every single time."
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
“The transition from primary to secondary school is a significant time of change. It comes with a number of mixed feelings. So much is changing and they’re about to start a whole new set of subjects, meet new people, create new friendships and take on new challenges."
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
“A formula in dealing with adolescents is force equals resistance. Sometimes it just isn’t possible to stop them doing whatever it is they want to do. Regardless of everything, all you want is for them to come home safe, so start the conversation today!"
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
“Research shows there are specific risk factors that increase the likelihood of teenagers developing a mental health problem. Some are set in stone, and others are modifiable. It can impact their ability to function and perform normal activities."
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
“Whilst most children are resilient and seem to be demonstrating a remarkable capacity to manage this challenging time, others are not faring as well. This makes it really important for parents to be vigilant for any signs of distress."
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
“Disappointment is a normal, though difficult, part of growing up and can be a tricky emotion to deal with at any age. How your children learn to respond to disappointment will determine its impact on their future achievement and happiness.”
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
"It’s no secret that the end of school can be a huge source of anxiety for both students and parents alike. Final year students suffer from high-level anxiety or stress, with many also suffering from depression."
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg