Ways to Celebrate University Mental Health Day 2024

University Mental Health Day 2024 is an event that takes place annually to spread awareness and talk about students’ mental health.

Raising awareness about mental health and its impacts is important, as mental health and substance misuse problems are high among students.

Read more to find out how you can celebrate University Mental Health Day here!

What is University Mental Health Day?

University Mental Health Day is an annual event that is held to raise awareness about mental health issues among university students, staff, and faculty. It aims to promote mental health education, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, and encourage support for those struggling with mental health challenges.

On University Mental Health Day, universities typically organise various activities such as workshops, seminars, panel discussions, and awareness campaigns to address mental health concerns and promote a supportive campus environment.

Resources and information about mental health services are often provided to help students access the support they may need, which is extremely beneficial to students who may be struggling.

Depression and anxiety rates are high among students, so showing support and increasing awareness is key. Many people with mental health problems resort to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate, so knowing that support is available is a key benefit of University Mental Health Day.

When is University Mental Health Day 2024?

This year, University Mental Health Day is taking place on the 14th of March all day. Universities across the country celebrate the day by hosting wellbeing events, webinars, charity events and social events across campuses.

University Mental Health Day is a chance to break the stigma surrounding mental health and the issues that often accompany it, such as stress, addiction, self-care and more.

Why Celebrate University Mental Health Day?

By dedicating a day to mental health awareness and support, universities can raise awareness about the prevalence of mental health challenges among students, reduce the stigma associated with mental illness, and promote access to support services.

University Mental Health Day empowers individuals to discuss their mental health experiences openly, seek help when needed, and take care of themselves properly. Through various activities and events, such as workshops, panel discussions, and art therapy sessions, University Mental Health Day can help hundreds of students who may be struggling.

By recognising the importance of mental health and promoting a supportive environment, universities can help to reduce the risks to student mental health.

Key Risks of Student Mental Health

Drinking culture and drug use are extremely common among students, which can be a risk for those who struggle with mental health problems. Alcohol and drug use are often used to self-medicate mental health symptoms and develop into a substance abuse problem.

As part of University Mental Health Day, raising awareness of drug and alcohol abuse is a useful resource for students who may need help or can see warning signs in people they know.

Breaking the stigma is key to ensuring students feel comfortable to seek help – discuss the risks of dual diagnosis with students to ensure they know where to get help.

7 Ways to Celebrate University Mental Health Day 2024

There are a number of ways you can celebrate University Mental Health Day 2024, whether you choose to show your support at home or organise an event. For some ideas, see below:

Organise Mental Health Workshops

You can host workshops focused on various aspects of mental health, such as stress management, mindfulness, self-care practices, and coping strategies. Invite mental health professionals, counsellors, or peer support groups to lead these sessions.

Panel Discussions

Arrange panel discussions featuring mental health experts, students, and faculty members to discuss topics like reducing stigma, promoting mental wellness, and improving access to mental health resources on campus.

Many students who experience poor mental health also have an unhealthy relationship with drugs and alcohol. Offering addiction and substance misuse resources is a good way to support students who are struggling.

Art Therapy Sessions

Art therapy sessions where students can engage in creative activities like painting, drawing, or sculpting as a means of expression and stress relief is a good way to celebrate University Mental Health Day with a fun activity.

Provide art supplies and create a safe space for students to get artistic.

Physical Events

Organise physical activities like yoga sessions, group hikes, or dance classes to promote the connection between physical activity and mental well-being. Encourage students to get moving and enjoy the benefits of exercise for their mental health.

This type of mindfulness exercise is something that can be enjoyed by students year-round to encourage good mental health.

Peer Support Groups

Hosting peer support groups where students can share their experiences, challenges, and successes related to mental health in a supportive and non-judgmental environment is another good way to encourage students to talk about their mental health.

Peer-led discussions can provide valuable insights and solidarity among students.

Information Booths and Resource Fairs

Set up information booths or a resource fair featuring mental health organisations, counselling services, and support resources. Distribute informational materials, pamphlets, and flyers about available services and how to access them.

This can be related to conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders and addiction, all of which have a number of support services available to help students who are struggling.

Virtual Support Spaces

Create virtual support spaces such as online forums, chat rooms, or social media groups where students can connect with peers, share resources, and offer support to one another.

Posted on Friday, March 1st, 2024 at 10:09 am in Mental Health.