Mental Health Week at STOP’s communities’ education centers at both Tigri and Tughlakabad, led by Sakshi Gaur, Psychological Counsellor at STOP, was a transformative initiative held from October 9th to 16th. The week aimed to raise awareness about mental health and equip students with tools to manage stress, enhance their emotional intelligence (EQ), and navigate life’s challenges effectively.
A standout session on stress management introduced techniques such as deep breathing and mindfulness exercises. Activities like the “Feelings Wheel” empowered participants to label and share emotions, fostering a culture of openness and empathy, as well as an interactive exercise using the “Emotion Wheel,” enabling them to identify, understand, and regulate their emotions better. Students learned how emotional well-being impacts relationships and the overall quality of life.
The highlight of the week was a creative drawing activity, where students expressed their joys and strengths through art. Prompts like “Five things that make me happy” and “Five things I like about myself” encouraged self-reflection and boosted self-esteem. Similarly, the 5-4-3-2-1 mindfulness exercise engaged their senses, teaching the importance of being present in the moment.
Through these engaging sessions, students developed essential life skills, including empathy, resilience, and emotional regulation. STOP’s Mental Health Week was a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health education. By fostering emotional intelligence and resilience, initiatives like this pave the way for a more empathetic and confident generation.