At International School Maximilian, we are deeply committed to nurturing the holistic development of our students. In recognition of World Mental Health Day, we recently held a Mental Health Workshop for students aged 11-16, led by Bojana Vaskov, a renowned neuropsychologist from Kognicija. This event was designed to equip our students with practical tools to better understand mental health issues that can arise during adolescence, such as anxiety, stress, and aggression.
Why Mental Health Matters in Schools
As educators, we recognize that mental health is as important as physical health, especially for students navigating the challenges of school life. From academic pressures to social dynamics, students face a myriad of stressors. Our goal through this workshop was to raise awareness and provide coping strategies to promote emotional resilience.
Mental health education is critical in helping students develop the emotional intelligence and self-awareness needed to thrive both academically and personally. At International School Maximilian, we ensure that our students are supported emotionally through programs like this workshop, which align with our values of inclusion, well-being, and responsibility.
Key Topics Covered During the Workshop
The Mental Health Workshop covered a wide range of topics, including:
- Understanding Anxiety: Bojana Vaskov discussed the causes and symptoms of anxiety, helping students recognize how it manifests in daily life. They also explored techniques like mindfulness and breathing exercises to manage anxiety effectively.
- Managing Aggression: Students were introduced to strategies for dealing with feelings of anger and frustration, learning about emotional regulation and the importance of seeking help when needed.
- Stress Management: Students explored how stress affects both their mental and physical health, and how they can employ stress-reduction techniques like time management and exercise to maintain a balanced life.
- Coping with Social Pressures: The importance of peer support and how to navigate social challenges in healthy ways were key themes, promoting a strong sense of community within the school.
- The Role of Healthy Habits: Students learned how sleep, nutrition, and exercise play crucial roles in maintaining positive mental health.
Interactive and Engaging
The workshop was designed to be interactive, with students actively participating in discussions and activities. From role-playing scenarios to group exercises, the students were encouraged to express their feelings and explore ways to cope with common mental health issues. This hands-on approach fostered open communication and provided a safe space for students to talk about their concerns.
Building a Culture of Mental Health Awareness
At International School Maximilian, we aim to make mental health a continuous conversation. Workshops like this are just one part of our broader initiative to ensure that our students not only excel academically but also develop strong emotional and psychological foundations. We want every student to feel supported and understood, and we will continue to integrate mental health education into our curriculum.
Looking Ahead: Collecting Points for Future Workshops
As part of our effort to encourage ongoing participation, students who attended the Mental Health Workshop received points towards their end-of-year certification. By attending all workshops, students will collect enough points to earn a certificate of active participation. This initiative fosters continuous engagement and emphasizes the importance of ongoing mental health education.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Mental Health
The Mental Health Workshop was a resounding success, helping students at International School Maximilian better understand their mental well-being and providing them with valuable tools for managing emotional challenges. We remain committed to fostering a healthy, supportive learning environment where mental health is prioritized, and we look forward to hosting more workshops like this in the future.
For more information about our mental health initiatives and future workshops, stay connected with us on our social media platforms or reach out to the school administration.
