Pupilslead in awarenessof goodmental healthcare

Pupils at Wallace High will be working hard to remove the stigma associated with mental health through a new programme.

The youngsters will be hosting their annual mental health week from Monday (February 5) with a series of workshops, lessons and talks planned for pupils and staff.

Guest speakers will include representatives from the Samaritans and the Chris Mitchell Foundation.

The week will be opened by author Chris Young who will lead the pupils on their‘Walk A Mile’around the school.

On Wednesday (February 7) all pupils from S1 to S3 will take part in mental health lessons in each subject they visit throughout the school and across the whole week mental health first aiders will be providing a drop-in service at lunchtimes for anyone who wants to talk about their mental health, or is worried about someone else.

Pupil mental health champions will also be linking up with the feeder primary schools in Bridge of Allan, Cornton, Fallin, Raploch and Riverside by launching poster competitions.

The winner will have their poster printed and displayed in all five primary schools while runners-up prizes will also be awarded.

The school’s programme‘Elephant in the Room’was launched to raise awareness of mental health issues both within the school and in the community.

Health mascot Elphie the Elephant is venturing into the wider community – and will be taken on all school excursions to help open up conversations about mental health.