School Avoidance: The Anxiety, The Struggles, The Solutions [with Megan Gilmour]

School refusal and absence are at crisis levels. More than 40% of students are missing at least 10% of school days — and it’s only getting worse. Behind every statistic is a child struggling with anxiety, chronic illness, or the weight of a system that doesn’t fit.

In this powerful conversation, Dr Justin Coulson speaks with Megan Gilmour, CEO of Missing School and 2025 ACT Australian of the Year. Megan’s own son battled a life-threatening illness that kept him from school for years, and her advocacy has since transformed the way we think about education, connection, and support for kids who can’t physically be in the classroom.

If you’re worried about your child’s school avoidance — whether from illness, anxiety, or overwhelm — this episode will give you both hope and practical direction.

KEY POINTS:

• Why school absence has skyrocketed since COVID.
• The hidden costs of missing school: academics, friendships, identity, and mental health.
• How school avoidance affects the whole family.
• What digital connection and flexible solutions can look like for struggling students.
• Why the current school model isn’t fit for today’s kids — and what needs to change.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:
“Wherever school absence starts — illness, anxiety, or overwhelm — the long-term impacts on a child’s wellbeing and future are profound. Connection is everything.” – Megan Gilmour

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Missing School
• School Refusal [HF Article]
• #533 Emotion Based School Avoidance [HF Podcast Episode]

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:

1. Notice the early signs of school avoidance — and take them seriously.
2. Keep the focus on connection, not just attendance.
3. Explore flexible options, including digital classroom access, where possible.
4. Seek support: schools can and must accommodate differences.

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