This past Tuesday we offered our 3rd annual Mental Health Symposium. It was held  during the morning and brought over 100 students, staff, and guests together to discuss why mental health is so important, especially during our high school years.

Mental illness is often stigmatized, making individuals who are struggling feel  reluctant or embarrassed to share their stories with others. A consistent message that our guests shared with our students was “You are not alone”.

Brett Rothery and members of the Mental Wellness Team.

 

“Mental Illness is NOT a death sentence” – Claire Hickie U of C Student

Empathy is about sitting with someone and just being

“Love me in the middle of my mess”. – Taunya – psychologist

Students also had opportunities throughout the morning to share their messages of love, hope, and thoughts on the importance of diversity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

One of the activites which our Mental Wellness Committe had asked me to facilitate during our morning together is called Snowballs of Advice, one of the most popular activities from last years symposium

Once again our students have proven that not only do they come into our classrooms with a variety of challenges, beyond simple academics. They have also proven that they are compassionate and can provide their peers with fabulous support and advice.

How do you share the importance of mental health and wellness with others. I look forward to hearing about your ideas.

Erin Luong