Mental health is crucial, especially for teenagers navigating the complexities of academic life, social relationships, and personal growth. In a virtual session held at Ambassador School, Dubai, we engaged with students aged 14-17 on the importance of safe spaces and mental well-being. This one-hour session, held on the 16th of September 2024, Monday. It was conducted via projector, aimed to empower students with knowledge about mental health, emotions, and how to support both themselves and their peers during challenging times.
What is a Safe Space?
A safe space is an environment – physical or emotional – where individuals feel secure, supported, and free from judgment. These spaces are vital for students who may feel overwhelmed by the pressures of adolescence. By fostering safe spaces in schools, homes, and friendships, students can express themselves openly, seek help without fear, and develop emotional resilience.
Takeaways from Our Session at Ambassador School:
Understanding Mental Health:
Our session began by explaining that mental health is not just the absence of illness but a state of well-being where individuals can manage stress, build relationships, and make positive contributions to their community.
Recognizing Emotions:
We helped students understand that all emotions—whether positive or negative—are valid. Learning to recognize, name, and accept their feelings is the first step toward managing them healthily.
Mental Health Continuum:
Mental health exists on a spectrum. We explained the mental health continuum, showing students how people can move between states of thriving, struggling, or being in crisis. Recognizing these changes in themselves or others is key to offering timely support.
Responding to Crisis:
When someone is in crisis, they might feel trapped, hopeless, or consider harming themselves. We taught students how to recognize warning signs in their peers, like withdrawing from social activities, expressing feelings of worthlessness, or drastic changes in behavior. The session emphasized the importance of reaching out for help—either by encouraging the individual to seek professional support or stepping in by contacting trusted adults or helplines like Ankahee.
Building a Personal Well-Being Plan:
Each student was guided through the process of creating their own well-being plan – a personalized toolkit of coping strategies, resources, and emergency contacts that can be relied on during moments of stress or crisis. We also emphasized the importance of helping friends develop their own plans and ensuring everyone feels equipped to take care of their mental health.
Providing Support Through Our Helpline:
Sometimes, it feels like there’s no one to turn to when life gets overwhelming. But help is available. Our Ankahee Helpline provides a confidential, anonymous, and judgment-free space for students to share their thoughts, worries, and struggles.
Here’s how we can help:
Confidential and Anonymous:
You can reach out to us with confidence, knowing that everything you share remains private. We listen without judgment, and you are free to express whatever is on your mind.
Empathetic Volunteers:
Our volunteers are trained to handle crisis situations with care and compassion. They will listen attentively and provide the guidance you need, helping you navigate through difficult times.
Available When You Need Us:
Whether it’s exam stress, social pressure, or personal difficulties, we’re here for you. Our helpline operates every day from 4pm to 10 pm IST, providing support to those feeling distressed, depressed, suicidal or for those who just want someone to talk to.
How You Can Reach Us:
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, feeling overwhelmed, or unsure of how to cope, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our Ankahee helpline is here to provide the support you need.
Contact Information:
+91 86-554 86-966 – Available from 4 pm to 10 pm IST
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By the end of our session at Ambassador School, students gained valuable insights into mental health, safe spaces, and how to support themselves and their friends. Mental health should never be ignored or stigmatized – creating safe, supportive environments where everyone feels seen and heard is essential for personal and community well-being.
If you’re feeling lost, uncertain, or in need of a supportive conversation, we are here for you. Reach out to us via our helpline, follow us on social media for resources, and remember – you are not alone.