Celebrating World Mental Health 2024 in Schools

World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10th, is an important reminder of the significance of mental well-being in all sectors, including education. This year the theme is ‘It is Time to Prioritise Mental Health in the Workplace’ and provides a great opportunity to focus on the well-being of the adults working in school. By getting involved and marking World Mental Health Day schools can foster a supportive environment, improve morale, and enhance the overall atmosphere.

A pack of ideas for World Mental Health Day can be found on the Mentally Healthy Schools website and suggestions will be shared by many other organisations but some simple activities could include:

• Get together as a staff over lunch and don’t talk ‘shop’.
• Pick names out of a ‘hat’ and do something kind for your ‘secret friend’.
• Give 3 people a compliment.
• Get outside for 15 minutes during the school day.
• Play music that you like to your class.
• Get art equipment out at the end of the day and be creative.
• Get sports equipment out at the end of the day and play games.

5 steps to mental wellbeing - NHS (www.nhs.uk) contains ideas to refer to at any time and is a great point of reference, or ask staff what they would like to do to mark the day and see where it takes you!

By embracing World Mental Health Day, school staff can enhance their own well-being while fostering a healthier school environment for everyone.

Remember … self care is not selfish!

Why not also check out Shallu Duggal's recent article on supporting the mental health and well-being of students arriving at schools from outside the UK,