ISS Joins the global commemoration of World Mental Health Day |12 October 2023
Drama Club engaged in wellbeing activities
As the world came together to mark World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2023, the International School Seychelles (ISS) was proud to join this international observance by raising awareness and promoting mental health and well-being within the school community.
This year's theme, ‘Mental health is a universal human right’, resonates deeply with the school’s commitment to supporting the mental health needs of the students, staff, and families.
World Mental Health Day is a global initiative that aims to increase awareness of mental health issues worldwide and mobilise efforts to promote mental well-being. ISS recognises the significance of this day and takes meaningful steps to contribute to the cause.
Here are some of the activities that were planned within the school to mark World Mental Health Day:
- Mental Health and Well-being Videos: In the foyer area, we screened informative and inspiring mental health and well-being videos throughout the day. We encouraged everyone to take a moment to watch and reflect on these valuable resources.
- Primary Pupil Well-being Activities: Primary pupils had the opportunity to engage in well-being activities such as colouring and "what makes me happy" discussions under the reading tree during break and lunchtime. Our dedicated staff members, Andrew Middleton (Inclusion Manager) and Kate Benoiton (Counsellor), were present to facilitate these sessions.
- Secondary Student 'Wonderful Wall of Well-being': Secondary students contributed to a 'wonderful wall of well-being' by writing positive mental health support messages for their peers. This collaborative effort, taking place during break and lunch, was guided by our peer mentors, DofE students, and Merna Mondon, Counsellor.
- Staff Well-being Session: ISS recognises the importance of supporting the well-being of its staff members. To this end, it organised a 'Zumba with Sam' session on Tuesday after school. This was just one of several well-being sessions planned throughout the week to ensure our staff's mental health is nurtured and prioritised.
Elodie Vallantine, Principal, had a message for our school community on World Mental Health Day: “As we come together to recognise World Mental Health Day, I want to emphasise that mental health is indeed a universal human right. Each and every one of us deserves to feel supported, valued, and heard when it comes to our mental well-being.
“Today, we are taking meaningful steps within our school to promote positive mental health. Our students are building a 'Wonderful Wall of Wellbeing' and engaging in activities that encourage self-expression and reflection.
“But let's remember that the conversation about mental health doesn't end today. It is an ongoing dialogue, one that we can all participate in. Be open to talking, listening, and supporting one another not just today, but every day.
ISS is committed to fostering a supportive and compassionate environment where mental health is regarded as a universal human right. We believe that by taking proactive steps to address mental health issues, we can make a positive impact not only on our school community but on society as a whole. Together, we can raise awareness, reduce stigma, and create a more inclusive and mentally healthy world.”
Text & photos contributed