World Mental Health Day #HelloYellow

World Mental Health Day is celebrated each year on 10th October and provides an opportunity to raise awareness of mental health, reduce stigma, and encourage positive wellbeing for everyone.

This year's World Mental Health Day theme is "Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change." The theme highlights the importance of listening to people who have experienced mental health challenges and recognising the value of their experiences. By encouraging open conversations and ensuring that every voice is heard, the campaign aims to promote understanding, reduce stigma, and help create meaningful positive change in our schools, communities, and wider society.

At Wade Deacon High School, we recognise that mental health is just as important as physical health. Looking after our emotional wellbeing helps us to build resilience, cope with challenges, maintain positive relationships, and achieve our full potential both in and out of the classroom.

As 10th October falls during the weekend this year, we will be celebrating World Mental Health Day in school on Friday 9th October. Pupils and staff will take part in a range of activities designed to promote positive wellbeing, encourage open conversations about mental health, and remind everyone of the importance of seeking support when needed. Throughout the day, we will be sharing messages of kindness, positivity, and self-care, while highlighting the support available within school and the wider community.

To mark the occasion, pupils are invited to wear one yellow item alongside their normal school uniform, such as a tie, ribbon, jumper or pair of socks. The remainder of the school uniform, including blazers, should be worn as normal. Please note that yellow caps and jackets should not be worn. Pupils may also bring a £1 cash donation, if they are able to do so, in support of YoungMinds, the UK's leading charity fighting for children and young people's mental health. In return, pupils will be able to purchase a small yellow ribbon to attach to their blazer and show their support for this important cause.

We encourage everyone to take a moment to check in with themselves and others. Sometimes a simple conversation, a kind word, or taking time to do something you enjoy can make a real difference. It's okay not to be okay, and it's always okay to ask for help.

Together, let's continue to create a school community where everyone feels supported, valued, respected, and able to thrive.