GEORGE’S SCHOOL, ALAKNANDA
REPORT ON MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS SESSION
Theme: “Mind Matters”
Date: 10 October 2026
Participants: Students of Classes VI and VII
Resource Person: Ms Pooja Rani Samal
Report Prepared by: Ms Sarika Yadav
Introduction
On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, observed on 10 October, St. George’s School, Alaknanda, organised a Mental Health Awareness Session for students of Classes VI and VII on the theme “Mind Matters.” The session aimed to sensitise students to the importance of mental health, emotional well-being and the need to develop healthy coping mechanisms from an early age.
Proceedings of the Session
The session commenced with engaging activities designed to help students recognise and express their emotions. Through a movement-based icebreaker, “What the DJ Says,” students were encouraged to participate actively and build positive energy.
Ms Pooja Rani Samal introduced students to the concept of mental health, explaining how our thoughts, feelings and actions influence our everyday lives. Students were encouraged to identify emotions such as happiness, sadness, tiredness and anger, and to understand that different individuals may experience different emotions in the same situation. An interactive video and guided discussion further encouraged them to reflect on their emotional states.
The resource person highlighted the close connection between physical and mental well-being, emphasising the importance of adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, exercise, hydration and engaging in enjoyable activities. Students also learnt about factors that influence mental health, including relationships with family and friends, daily experiences at school, personal challenges, thoughts, feelings and lifestyle habits.
A significant part of the session focused on understanding negative thoughts and their impact on emotional well-being. Students were encouraged to reframe negative thinking, adopt a positive outlook and persevere through challenges. The discussion reinforced the message that every feeling matters and that acknowledging our emotions is an important step towards maintaining mental well-being.
The session also highlighted the importance of empathy and kindness towards others. Students were encouraged to include everyone, keep their hands safe, offer support to their peers and approach a trusted adult, such as a parent or teacher, whenever they felt overwhelmed or needed help.
To conclude the interactive activities, students participated in a guided imagery exercise in which they visualised a peaceful, relaxing place. This was followed by a brief meditation activity to help them experience calmness and relaxation. The resource person also shared a practical mental health toolkit, encouraging students to get enough sleep, drink adequate water, practise deep breathing, take time to relax, listen to calming music and engage in activities they enjoy.
Key Takeaways
The session reinforced the following important messages:
• Mental health is an essential part of overall well-being.
• Recognising and expressing emotions is healthy and important.
• Physical health and mental well-being are closely interconnected.
• Positive thinking, self-care and healthy daily habits help build emotional resilience.
• Kindness, inclusion and peer support contribute to a safe and supportive school environment.
• Seeking help from a trusted adult is a positive step towards addressing emotional difficulties.
Conclusion
The Mental Health Awareness Session was informative, interactive and enriching. The students participated enthusiastically and enjoyed the activities, discussions and relaxation exercises. The session successfully reinforced the importance of understanding emotions, practising self-care and extending empathy and support to others.
Through the theme “Mind Matters,” the session conveyed a meaningful message: mental health deserves attention, care and understanding. Such initiatives play a vital role in nurturing emotionally aware, compassionate and resilient learners and in fostering a school environment where every child feels heard, valued and supported.
Prepared by:
Ms Sarika Yadav
St. George’s School, Alaknanda
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