You helped Owen overcome anxiety

Feeling overwhelmed at school, 10-year-old Owen was hiding under the classroom building crying. Then Chappy Rob came along… 

Scenes like this are played out everyday in schools across the nation as young people try to make sense of the world around them, each in their own unique way. 

Thankfully, schools like Owen’s have access to trusted and trained school chaplains who model the love of Jesus in our school communities. Your support helps keep them there. 

Now, when Owen feels overwhelmed at school, he knows he can always visit his chaplain.

“When I miss my parents or I’m having a bad day, I will go and see Chappy,” says Owen.

“I like having a chappy at school because it helps me when I’m feeling down or sad. After time with Chappy, I feel really happy and I’m ready to learn again.”

Chappy Rob explains that sometimes young people need a breather from the pace of school because everyone is unique. Being able to have one-on-one conversations and just sit and listen to the children, can work wonders.

“Owen is a great kid. He’s considerate, polite, smart and he’s a decent challenge in handball. But sometimes, he gets anxious and overwhelmed. On those days, he just needs someone to talk to,” says Chappy Rob.

“When Owen needs a break, we’ll talk about his emotions and validate what he’s feeling. But then we use things like our breathing and thoughts to take his mind off the sadness and onto more positive things.“

“What I love about chaplaincy is that every day you can make a positive difference in a child’s life. Even if it feels like just a small thing, it’s not small to them.” 

In those little, everyday moments where life feels a bit too big to face, sometimes we just need someone in our corner. 

Through your support, young people like Owen can access a trusted, trained and safe person who is uniquely positioned in schools to support them in times of need, and sees each child and young person through God’s eyes. Thank you for making this possible! To further this work, head to su.org.au/give today.

*Special thanks to Owen’s mum for taking these photos.