Activity period: November 2023 to January 2024

Relevant SDG: SDG 3 Good Health and Well Being.

This activity addresses SDG 3 by raising awareness about the importance of mental healthcare. To reduce stigma in society, to provide support and resources for managing mental health.

Subject Areas: Physical Education, Health Education, Social Emotional Learning, Biology, Citizenship Education 

Class: Year 7, Year 8, Year 9, Year 10.

Number of Students: 420

Teacher Responsible: Mrs. Folasade Nafiu, Dr. Adeyinka, Mrs. Oyeniran, Mrs. Bassey

Activity Description:

Research and Presentations: Students were divided into small groups and assigned a specific task. Each group conducted research and administered a questionnaire. This research involved exploring Students understanding, the impact and the effect of mental wellbeing then invited a facilitator to sensitize the school community on the effect and benefit of mental health.

A psychologist and mental health expert Dr. Mrs. Onyema Abazie facilitated the seminar on mental health and stress management techniques covering broadly

• Understanding Stress  
• Stress Management Techniques   
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices  
• Time Management Skills 
• Guidance and counselling session.

Advocacy Campaign:

Following their findings from the questionnaire administered, the students participated in a sensitization campaign. They used their understanding of the challenges faced by communities to advocate for the importance of good health and wellbeing through good sleep, balanced diet, exercise etc.

Aims of Activity: Objective:

1. To create awareness of the importance of mental healthcare.
2. To reduce stigma in society, to provide support and resources for managing mental health.

Outcomes

1. Students gained a deeper understanding of what mental wellbeing is all about
2. Students learned how to carry out research and administer questionnaire
3. Students developed critical thinking skills by examining the health implication, the impact of wellbeing on academic performance and life in general
4. Students developed critical thinking skills by examining the health implication of stress and how to manage stress
5. Students honed their communication and advocacy skills by promoting the importance of mental wellbeing.

Impact of this Activity:  

This activity aimed to create a lasting impact on the students, the school community, and potentially, society at large. By fostering awareness about managing stress and enhancing their mental well-being which also assisted to improve educational achievements.

It provided practical tools and techniques to manage stress effectively, promoting mental health awareness and resilience. 

 It encouraged students to become responsible citizens who advocate for sustainable solutions. Additionally, the activity might inspire further research or action projects within the school community, potentially involving fundraising or raising awareness campaigns about managing stress and maintaining a mental wellbeing.

Follow-Up: Participants will practice the techniques learned and keep a stress diary for a month. A follow-up session will also be scheduled to discuss progress and address any challenges at least once a term. Students from nearby community schools will be invited to the seminar facilitated by Mental Aid First Aid representatives.