In this episode, host Leisa Reichelt is joined by Lisa McLean as they discuss her daughter Mia's struggles with school attendance and anxiety. Lisa shares her family's journey from identifying early signs of anxiety in primary school, navigating high school challenges, understanding the mind-body connection, to ultimately finding alternative educational pathways. They discuss the stress and pressure felt by the entire family, the impact of trauma, and strategies such as homeschooling and mental health support and how Mia has emerged from the experience as an independent young person, optimistic for a rewarding future.00:00 Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast00:27 Introducing Lisa McLean and Her Family01:41 Early Signs and Struggles in Primary School03:42 Challenges in High School04:53 Seeking Help and Initial Interventions08:46 The Turning Point: Homeschooling and Alternative Education16:08 The Impact of COVID-19 and Family Healing23:19 Finding a New Path: TAFE and Independence29:00 Reflections and Advice for Other Parents33:11 Closing Remarks and ResourcesRecommended ResourcesThe Body Keeps The Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk (Book) - https://www.amazon.com.au/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748When the Body Says No by Gabor Mate (Book) - https://drgabormate.com/book/when-the-body-says-no/Lisa’s things she wished she knew (from one mum to another): https://stan.store/Calmlifeproject/p/what-i-wish-i-knew-from-one-mum-to-anotherLisa’s instragram: https://www.instagram.com/calmlifeproject/Lisa’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calmlifeprojectSend us a textSupport the show School Can’t Australia Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustralia Make a donation to School Can’t Australia - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/get-involved If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-you You can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on
[email protected] DisclaimerThe content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.