Mental Health Week at St Mary’s

Mental Health Week at CMCB: A Celebration of Wellbeing

Last week, we celebrated Mental Health Week with a fantastic array of activities that promoted wellbeing, connection and fun across the school. With the help of our student leaders, we enjoyed a meaningful and engaging week.

Activities throughout the week:

• Monday kicked off Mental Health Week celebrations at St Mary’s with students encouraged to write positive chalk messages along Wright Street, and the movie ‘Inside Out’ screened in the Marian Theatre at lunchtime.
• Lunchtimes at the Library were a peaceful escape, with Mandala colouring, jigsaws, and knitting with Linda providing a calming space for all. The Library Mood Board was filled with adorable pet photos and several students shared stories about book characters who overcame mental health challenges, winning prizes for their insightful recommendations.
• The St Mick’s Picnic was a highlight of the week, with students bringing their lunches to relax on the grass. Thanks to Dean and Asher from headspace, who chatted with students promoting mental health and wellbeing and shared information about the services they provide. CMCB provided fresh fruit, there was music and students enjoyed Spikeball and Cornhole activities with their friends.
• The Pickleball Competition and Football Kicking challenge brought out some friendly competition and students enjoyed testing their skills.
• R U OK? Day on Thursday involved the much-anticipated Staff vs Year 12 Netball Game saw some thrilling moments as teachers and students faced off in a friendly, but competitive, match. The students started strongly, leading the goal scoring in the first quarter. The staff fought back, with a physical and athletic game, mounting an impressive comeback. The final score was 10-9 with the Year 12 students taking the win. Many students showed their support for R U OK? Day by wearing a touch of yellow, whether in their socks, hair ties or accessories.
• The House Volleyball Competition and Quiz in the Marian Centre provided more opportunities for fun and friendly rivalry to end the week.
• Staff embraced the spirit of Mental Health Week by dressing up in a different theme each day – from polka dots and stripes to florals, pink and sparkles and rainbows -sparking conversations and spreading joy throughout the school!

It was a wonderful week that reminded us of the importance of connection, mindfulness and taking care of our mental health. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the week so special!

Ms Alana Burke, Social Emotional Learning Leader