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 Podcast

00:27 Introducing Lisa McLean and Her Family

01:41 Early Signs and Struggles in Primary School

03:42 Challenges in High School

04:53 Seeking Help and Initial Interventions

08:46 The Turning Point: Homeschooling and Alternative Education

16:08 The Impact of COVID-19 and Family Healing

23:19 Finding a New Path: TAFE and Independence

29:00 Reflections and Advice for Other Parents

33:11 Closing Remarks and Resources

Recommended Resources

• The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk (Book) - https://www.amazon.com.au/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748
• When 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-another
• Lisa’s instragram: https://www.instagram.com/calmlifeproject/
• Lisa’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calmlifeproject

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Support 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 schoolcantpodcast@gmail.com

Disclaimer
The 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.