On Wednesday 5 February, Jemima Curtis, Hugo Pattison, Bethany Yip, Serena Chan and Ellery Francis delivered an assembly on the importance of mental well-being.

This week is Children’s Mental Health Week, and today we would like to talk about why mental health matters for all of us. While this can feel like a difficult topic, it is important to speak about because mental health is relevant to everyone, we all have mental health in the same way we all have physical health – how well we are, physically and mentally, can change over time. We all experience worry, stress or sadness sometimes, and by understanding these feelings, we can learn to cope better. 

Mental health is about our emotional well-being—how we think, feel, and handle everyday life. Just like our physical health, it needs care. We all have ups and downs, but learning to look after ourselves helps us cope with challenges and bounce back more easily. This might mean practising mindfulness, getting regular exercise, or simply taking time to relax and do things we enjoy. This week, we are focusing on how connections with others support our mental well-being. Relationships—whether friendships, family bonds, or connections with teachers—give us a sense of belonging. if you ever feel overwhelmed, speak with someone you trust. Reaching out isn’t weakness; it’s a step toward taking control and seeking support. 

A good first step is to check in with yourself: “How am I feeling today?” If you’re stressed or upset, think about what might help. That could be taking a break from social media, going for a walk, or talking to a friend. It’s easy to let worries build up, especially during busy times like exams, so being aware of your emotions is crucial. Remember, it’s normal to feel a range of emotions each day. Taking small steps to acknowledge and address them can prevent bigger issues later on. You can also support others. If you see someone who seems lonely, offer a smile or a quick “Are you okay?” You don’t need to fix all their problems—just listening can help them feel less alone. 

Activities outside the classroom can really benefit our mental health. Sports, music, art, or drama reduce stress and help us meet others who share our interests. Even five minutes spent reading, drawing or listening to music can clear our minds and boost our mood. Sharing these hobbies with friends can also strengthen our bonds and remind us that we are not alone in our experiences. It’s also important to keep a routine. Getting enough sleep, eating well, and balancing work with relaxation can keep worries in check. 

Even when we have good habits, we all face moments when we feel low. The key is recognising those feelings and getting help if they become overwhelming. Our school has trusted adults—tutors, Heads of House and Section teams, Mrs Valpied as Head of Welfare as well as school counsellors—who are ready to listen. It might feel daunting to open up, but sharing problems often helps you feel less burdened. For all of us, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed at times, and that’s when reaching out truly matters. 

If a friend confides in you about something serious, encourage them to speak to a teacher or another responsible adult. It’s wonderful to be supportive, but you can’t handle everything alone. Remember, we’re part of a caring network in school and beyond. Throughout this week, let’s focus on connecting—with ourselves and others. Greet someone new, check in on someone you don’t normally speak to in tutor, or offer help if you see someone struggling. Most importantly, if you need help yourself, remember that asking isn’t failure—it’s bravery. 

Children’s Mental Health Week might last for a few days, but caring for our wellbeing is something we can do every day. By supporting each other and making time for our wellbeing, we create a positive environment for everyone.