October 9, 2025:
The Senior Secondary Section of the school observed World Mental Health Day with a series of meaningful and impactful activities aimed at raising awareness, promoting emotional well-being, and emphasizing the importance of mental health support, especially during times of crisis. The theme for this year, “Access to Mental Health Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” was thoughtfully reflected in all the events and displays organized throughout the day.
The highlight of the program for Grade 9 was an engaging and interactive guest session on “Mind Over Mood”, conducted by Mrs. Sajeda Tanveer and Ms. Prajakta Karekar from ConvoHeal Insights Training W.L.L, Qatar. The speakers guided students through reflective discussions on managing emotions, building resilience, and developing mental strength to face challenges—skills especially vital in times of uncertainty and crisis. The session was highly interactive and left students with practical strategies to handle stress and maintain balance in difficult circumstances.
To further emphasize the theme, a variety of activity stations and poster displays were set up in the D-Block near the Periodic Table area, attracting enthusiastic participation from students. The stations included:
● A “Mental Health Check-In” Corner, where students could share their feelings and reflect on how external situations—such as global or personal crises—affect their emotional state.
● A Coping Strategies Board, featuring accessible self-care practices and mental first-aid tips that can be used during emergencies, such as deep breathing, positive affirmations, and reaching out for help.
● Creative student posters, one of which powerfully portrayed the struggles faced during wars and disasters, particularly reflecting on the current situation in Gaza. The artwork reminded viewers that even in catastrophe, mental health support remains a fundamental human need and right.
The Grade 11 Psychology students added a thoughtful touch to the event by preparing handmade cards for the teachers, each carrying a unique coping strategy such as “take mindful breaks,” “connect with loved ones,” or “practice gratitude.” These were presented to teachers as a gentle reminder to care for their own emotional health, especially important for educators who support students through stressful times.
The school radio also contributed meaningfully by airing a special interview with the school counselor Mrs. Faheema Mustafa , who discussed the importance of timely access to mental health services, especially in emergencies. The talk highlighted the school’s ongoing initiatives, signs of distress to watch for in students, and the collective role of teachers, parents, and peers in providing emotional support during crises. The segment was highly appreciated by listeners for its relevance and clarity.
Adding a creative and emotional dimension to the day, students presented a mime performance during the guest session. Through expressive movements, the performance depicted the mental and emotional turmoil individuals experience in disasters, while also conveying hope, resilience, and the need for accessible mental health care.
The day served as a powerful reminder that mental health care is not a privilege but a right, and that access to mental health services—especially in times of catastrophe or emergency—is essential for building resilience, healing, and hope.
