On 15 February, 2024, Naihati Secondary Girls School, Rupsha, Khulna, hosted a transformative Mental Health Awareness Session under the STEM & ICT Skills for the Girls of Coastal Area (SISGCA) project. Funded by the Malala Fund in association with BdOSN, this initiative aimed to equip female students with vital knowledge and resources concerning mental well-being. 84 female’s students from classes 6 to 8, participated actively in these sessions.
The session commenced with a cordial welcome by Project Coordinator Mahmud Hossain Sovon. Experienced professionals, Md, guided them. Bariul Islam, Clinical Psychologist, and Sonia Akther Puspo, Psychosocial Counselor of Moner Bondhu. Employing an interactive approach, they fostered active participation and facilitated insightful discussions.
Key highlights of the session included discussions on the fundamentals of mental health, its necessity, the impact of climate change on mental well-being, challenges faced during adolescence, anger management, and suicide prevention. The informative presentations were complemented by interactive activities, creating a dynamic learning environment for the students.
Participants delved into acknowledging prevalent mental health challenges encountered by adolescents, addressing emotional imbalances, stress, depression, anxiety, anger, and relationship issues. The session also focused on strategies for sustaining mental well-being, incorporating group discussions to elucidate personal coping mechanisms.
To address prevalent misconceptions and encourage open communication, a structured Q&A session was incorporated. This created a safe space for students to share personal experiences and seek additional clarification on sensitive topics. Concluding with a powerful call to action, the session urged participants to become active ambassadors of mental health awareness within their communities. The program aimed to empower these young minds and foster a more supportive and resilient school environment by equipping them with valuable knowledge and practical tools.
This initiative signifies a vital step in prioritizing mental health within educational settings. It underscores the Malala Fund and BdOSN's commitment to empowering young women by equipping them with the resources necessary to navigate the complexities of adolescence and thrive in all aspects of their lives.