Killester students promote positive mental health

STUDENTS at a Northside school were given the opportunity to attend a special event at the RDS to promote positive mental health. 

Girls from St Mary’s Holy Faith, Killester were among 4,000 students, representing over 100 schools, in attendance at the fourth annual Cycle Against Suicide Student Leaders’ Congress.

The event, aptly themed ‘Together we can’, sought to remind students that it’s ok not to feel ok; and it’s absolutely ok to ask for help.

The St Mary’s students not only participated in a carefully choreographed, high-energy experience, but also showcased a video they designed and created around theme.  

The congress demonstrates, in a very special way, the value to students of appreciating their own mental wellbeing. It highlights the importance of promoting positive mental health practices in schools and communities.

There was also an opportunity for students to interact with mental health organisations exhibiting on the day thereby informing them of all the different help and support available to them, if and when it is needed.   

Principal at St Mary’s Holy Faith, Evelyn McLoughlin, said her school was privileged to participate in the national event and honoured to showcase its work.

“The impact of this type of activity is far reaching, not just in our schools, but also in the community at large,” said Ms McLoughlin.

Cycle Against Suicide founder Jim Breen said: “We held our first ever student event in March 2013 at RTE’s studios. 

“There were 40 student leaders in attendance that day. This year we have just filled the RDS with 4,000 students.  

“This is now the biggest youth mental health event of its kind in the world. Each year over the two weeks of our annual cycle, we give presentations in schools, colleges and universities all around the island of Ireland and we witness how hugely responsive students are to the message that it’s ok not to feel ok; and it’s absolutely ok to ask for help.” 

Mr Breen said the event is tailored exclusively to young people.

“We are delighted to have such high profile guests in attendance to encourage our students to appreciate their mental wellbeing,” he added.  Stars of Irish broadcasting, sport, music, member of the Garda Siochana and PSNI came together with Minister for the Diaspora Jimmy Deenihan to support ‘Together we can’.

For more information, visit www.cycleagainstsuicide.com or www.facebook.com/CycleAgainstSuicide