Mental Health Day activities across School

"Mental health…is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going." — Noam Shpancer

Every year, World Mental Health Day is observed on 10th October. This day is marked by a particular theme, and this year the theme was ''Mental health is a universal human right”.

The Indian School-Second Shift observed World Mental Health Day through various activities planned at each grade level.

For the primary classes, different activities were conducted to generate awareness about mental health and well being. The activities included  story narration  highlighting different components of mental well-being, mindfulness activities like "Buddies Yoga", "Listen to the Bell"and "Fly like a Butterfly". These activities helped the students in self-regulation and promoting positive emotions and self-compassion. The students were  informed about the need to focus on diet, sound sleep and positive thinking for maintaining a healthy mind.

In class 3, students discussed the need to focus on diet, sound sleep and positive thinking for a healthy mind. They attempted meditation, which proved to be an enriching and enlightening experience for them.

The students of class 4 engaged in many mindfulness activities for good mental health. Students did mental cognition activities clubbed with physical activity. They were taken on a nature walk at School, where they learned to relax and meditate to calm their minds amidst nature. They also showed gratitude by appreciating each other.

Students of classee 5 and 6 were made aware about the importance of mental health. They made gratitude cards, and posters to graphically represent their understanding of love and care for all. Students were told about strategies like controlling negative thoughts, engaging in a hobby, exercise, making lifestyle changes and seeking professional help when required.

Students of class 7 wrote letters to develop feelings of respect and gratitude towards those who are always there to support us. Taking the time to put pen to paper to express gratitude, made the children realise the support and appreciation that is provided at every step by our near and dear ones. They participated in various activities like poster making, singing, group discussion and slogan writing. During the group discussion, various issues relating to mental health were discussed.

Students of class 8 had an interactive classroom session on 'What is Mental Health?',  where the concept of adolescent mental health was discussed. The role of social media and technology was also highlighted as factors that add to stress and anxiety among adolescents. They also had a meditation session  and were advised to practice it daily for maintaining a healthy body, mind and spirit.

A TED Talk by renowned psychiatrist, Dr Vikram Patel was shown to the students of class 9. Dr Patel is an Indian psychiatrist and researcher best known for his work on child development and mental disability in low-resource settings. After his virtual session, students were encouraged to talk about mental disorders and disabilities openly and confidently.

Students  of class 10 were informed about the importance of a balance between physical and mental health, especially as they proceed for their board exams. Various ways of dealing with anxiety and stress were discussed, emphasising the need to have a disciplined lifestyle.

With these activities, the teachers devoted time to making the students understand the importance of prioritising mental health and well being in this fast-paced world. The Indian School-Second Shift believes that promoting mental health concerns amongst children, greatly aids their holistic development and makes them aware citizens, who are able to work better, utilise their full potential and also establish and maintain relationships with those around them.