Students Equipped to Address Mental Health

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The Department of Student Residences Affairs’ mental health programme on the Westville campus aimed to raise student awareness of the importance of mental health.

Resident Assistant (RA) Ms Thabile Madlala, the overall facilitator of the programme, said: ‘This programme aimed to start a conversation about mental health, something the majority of students shy away from. It gave them a sense of comfort to know they are not the only ones facing such challenges and that there is a platform for them to open up and share how they feel.’

Comprising two components, a virtual session addressed by Mr Sanele Zuma (student psychologist in the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science) and a physical session outdoors, the interactive programme included an overview of mental health and triggers related to mental health issues (stress, depression, and anxiety). In the virtual session, coping methods were demonstrated to empower students to monitor and manage their mental health during stressful times (including tests and exams). Zuma highlighted the University channels which provide psychological support and counselling in the four Colleges.

The outdoor event, which included yoga, “how low can you go” and balloon dodgeball aimed to encourage students to become active, and also provided the opportunity to get to know their fellow Res students.

‘Physical movement is an important part of a mental health awareness programme because a healthy body is crucial for healthy and active minds. The few hours spent outdoors away from phones, laptops and books gave the students a chance to relax and free their minds,’ said Madlala.

She thanked the Westville campus Res-Life Coordinator Ms Lerato Khoadi for supporting the programme. ‘We understand the importance of these programmes and appreciate the Residence Assistants’ efforts to address mental health in residences,’ said Khoadi.

Words: Raylene Captain-Hasthibeer

Photographs: Supplied