Mental Health Awareness Week at Benet Academy served as a crucial initiative to destigmatize mental health issues and promote open conversations within the school community. The week was filled with insightful discussions, engaging activities, and opportunities for students to share their stories, creating a supportive atmosphere.

Monday, February 26th, consisted of morning announcements and a collective prayer, setting a positive tone for the days ahead. Activities on Monday included a 7:10 AM Mass, creating an uplifting start to the week. The Graphic Design club adorned the halls with posters, visually reinforcing the importance of mental health awareness. The day concluded with a 3:15 PM MUSE meeting, focusing on mental health in literature and writing.

Tuesday, February 27th, featured various discussions on mental health, with student stories shared via email, providing personal perspectives that resonated with their peers. A Bible cafe meeting at 7:10 AM focused on the topic of anxiety. Homeroom game activities and further student stories in emails continued to engage students throughout the day, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
Wednesday, February 28th, was another day that focused on the importance of mental health. This included an American Sign Language (ASL) Club meeting at 7:10 AM, with a theme centered around emotion words. Additionally, hot cocoa was served in the St. Martin lobby, providing a warm and welcoming environment. Student stories continued to be shared via email, allowing them to connect on a personal level. The day was also designated as Green Shirt/Spirit Wear Day. This served to encourage students to participate by making a free-will donation in support of mental health organizations. Stickers were distributed at the door to promote awareness and solidarity.

On Thursday, February 29th, the final day of Mental Health Awareness Week, featured various activities focused on mental health such as homeroom activities and hot cocoa in the morning. The highlight of Thursday was the homeroom speaker, who presented “Mental Health 101” with a focus on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) in the Student Development Hour (SDH). This session served to provide essential insights into understanding and managing one’s mental health.

Overall, Benet Academy’s Mental Health Awareness Week served as a step toward embracing positive mental health habits and trying to remove the stigma around mental struggles that may seem isolating.