As part of World Mental Health Day observed on October 10th, Mar Elias College organized an enlightening session titled "Mental Wellness Matters: A Guide to Self-Care." The event aimed at spreading awareness about the significance of mental health and self-care among students and faculty members. The program was coordinated by the National Service Scheme (NSS) Unit No. 109 of the college.
The primary objective of the program was to promote mental wellness and provide practical strategies for self-care. The event sought to highlight the importance of acknowledging mental health issues and to encourage individuals to seek help without suffering in silence.
Ms. Aleena Sunny, Assistant Professor from the Department of Psychology, served as the resource person for the session. With her expertise in psychology, she provided valuable insights into mental health challenges and shared practical techniques for self-care that can be integrated into daily life.
The event commenced with a welcome address, followed by an introduction to the significance of World Mental Health Day by Ms. Vidya V V, NSS Programme Officer. Ms. Aleena Sunny delivered an engaging presentation focusing on common mental health issues, the stigma surrounding them, and the need for open conversations on mental health. The speaker shared practical self-care tips, including mindfulness, stress management techniques, and healthy work-life balance. A question-and-answer session allowed participants to interact directly with the speaker, addressing their concerns and learning more about mental wellness practices. The event concluded with a message to prioritize mental health and encourage support for those struggling with mental health issues.
The session successfully created a platform for open dialogue on mental wellness and equipped participants with knowledge and tools for better self-care. The active participation of students and staff demonstrated the program's relevance and effectiveness in addressing mental health issues.
At the end of the session, NSS volunteers organized a mime performance to raise awareness about mental health. The performance aimed to convey the struggles faced by individuals dealing with mental health issues through the silent art of mime, highlighting the need for empathy, support, and open dialogue. The mime performance had a profound impact on the audience, evoking a range of emotions and prompting deep reflection on the importance of mental health. The audience appreciated the creative approach to spreading awareness, as the silent nature of mime effectively captured the often unspoken struggles of those dealing with mental health issues. The performance resonated with many students and staff, encouraging them to think about how they can be more supportive of friends and loved ones who may be struggling.
The "Mental Wellness Matters" program was a significant initiative towards fostering a supportive environment at Mar Elias College, aligning with the broader goals of World Mental Health Day. By encouraging self-care and open communication, the event helped reduce the stigma associated with mental health and motivated participants to seek help when needed.
