Between the 1st and 7th of October, the school celebrated Mental Health Week in the hopes of spreading awareness of mental health and how we as a community can take care of ourselves and each other.
On Monday, Tuesday and throughout other parts of the week, we taught ourselves the importance of self-care through various useful and engaging activities/events/resources including music, mental health booklets, giant Chess, Jenga, Connect 4 and more. From this, we learnt the value of socializing, having fun and taking the time to catch a break whenever we feel too overwhelmed or distressed.
On Wednesday, the whole school participated in a relaxing and creative origami crane activity. I was personally proud to see some positive interest in this event, with many students constructing colourful and inspiring paper cranes. In line with the similar Japanese tradition, the wellbeing team hopes to display everyone’s efforts in the wellbeing room as a tribute to those struggling with mental illness.
On Thursday, we sought to help reduce the stigma that arises from speaking about mental health, through our celebration of Odd Sock Day. During this occasion, each student was allowed to wear the most crazy and bizarre socks they could find, signifying that mental health is an experience we all share, and that we shouldn’t be hesitant to speak out and find support when it is needed.
Lastly, we finished off the week with our year level presentations lead by our wellbeing counsellors and leaders. Throughout these presentations, we learnt about the various aspects of mental health, including an understanding of mental illness, how common it is in our society, clearing up misconceptions, and of course, acquiring tips on how to look after our own wellbeing.
Overall, a big thank you to all those who organized and participated in Mental Health Week. I am proud to see that us a school community are learning to embrace the idea of mental wellbeing and the impact it can have on our lives. Just remember, in the words of Noam Shpancer, “Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going”.
Sean-Patrick Go
Wellbeing Captain
