Taunton School International students have been engaging in a programme of activities designed to encourage them to take a moment in nature, raising awareness for the importance of Mental Health.
Mental Health Awareness Week provides a vitally important moment for people from every background to explore the importance of not only good mental health, but also the importance of understanding it. Being a topic full of misunderstandings and misconceptions, the awareness campaign aims to teach students about the importance of taking care of yourself and others.
This years’ Mental Health Awareness Week focused on reconnecting with nature, stating that ‘Nature is so central to our psychological and emotional health, that its almost impossible to realise good mental health for all without a greater connection to the natural world’. Science has made links numerous times between nature, fresh air and sunlight and an increased capacity to manage emotions and develop a positive mental health.
At Taunton School International, the students chose to take this natural inspiration and took part in a number of activities for our international boarders to reconnect with the natural world around them. With the beautiful Somerset countryside all around us, what better place to engage with the greenery around us!
Despite the grey British weather during the week, the students took part in several activities including team-building challenges, planting sunflowers, taking long walks and making bird feeders. The students also had the chance to discuss the topic amongst their peers during a picnic, and they also took part in a meditation session to take a breath and quieten their often busy minds.
Every activity the students took part in gave them an opportunity to express their thoughts in alternative ways.
Giving our young people an opportunity to begin to understand their thoughts is of vital importance. These days, mental health is on a decline and for young people to be more and more aware of their struggles, and those of others, is one way schools can help to develop children into well-rounded global citizens. At Taunton School, students have access to 24 hour medical care through the school’s centrally located Health Centre. Mrs Emily Kane is the Sister-in-charge and she is well supported by a team of nurses, doctors, matrons, a physiotherapist and counsellors; we put the students and their wellbeing at the heart of everything we do. The county hospital, Musgrove Park, is just 5 minutes away. Find out more about Pastoral Care at Taunton School here.
For more information about Mental Health Awareness Week, please click here.
Categories: International