Mental Health Awareness Week 2023
Our annual Mental Health Awareness Week took place last week, at a time when everyone needed a pick-me-up. Once again, there was a varied and engaging programme for both pupils and staff, including some interesting speakers, active workshops and mindful activities. Early morning walks proved a popular way to start the day while everyone was encouraged (with some sweets) to engage in some random acts of kindness. Some of the workshops included yoga, mindful breathing, stone painting, sound bathing (worth a google) and even a coffee morning for our 6th-form pupils; they were all very well received and provided a nice break from classes.
We were delighted to welcome some fantastic guest speakers during the week also. Stewart Wilson, a counselling psychotherapist, spoke with younger forms about self-care while Ian McKinley, Old Columban and former Italy rugby international, spoke to senior boys about being open about your mental health and building resilience. The highlight for many during the week was Richie Sadllier’s brilliant talk to all senior forms. Richie is a former professional footballer who struggled with alcohol and drug abuse and his mental health in his youth, before training to become a psychotherapist who specialises in supporting teens. It was a fascinating story.
Many thanks to Ms Maybury for her exceptional work in building the programme, assisted by the Cúram team. See an album of photos from the week’s events below.
