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Breaking the Stigma: A Mental Health

 

Breaking the Stigma: A Mental Health Awareness Session at Innocent Hearts, Green Model Town

In today’s hyperconnected world, social media and digital exposure have become an integral part of children's lives. While these platforms can serve as tools for education and awareness, they often carry an emotional toll, exposing young minds to confusing, misleading, or even distressing content. Recognizing this urgent concern, Innocent Hearts School, Green Model Town, took a significant step to address the mental and emotional well-being of its students.

 Breaking Stigma One Mile at a Time: A Special Session on Mental Health

The school recently hosted an insightful and inspiring session featuring a team of four passionate individuals — Ms. Seher Hashmi, Mr. Dev Desai, Mr. Samanyu Shukla, and Ms. Nazneen Shaikh — as part of their national campaign, “Breaking Stigma One Mile at a Time.” This initiative involves a remarkable bike ride across India, aimed at breaking mental health taboos, creating awareness, and promoting compassionate conversations around emotional well-being.

Their journey, which spans miles and minds, has become a symbol of resilience, courage, and connection. By riding through cities, towns, and schools, they are reaching out to thousands of young individuals, spreading a simple yet powerful message — “You are not alone.”

 Health & Wellness Club in Action

At Innocent Hearts Green Model Town, the Health & Wellness Club plays a vital role in promoting holistic student development. The club's student ambassadors from Grade IX had the opportunity to attend this engaging seminar. It wasn’t just another school event — it was a safe space for conversations that are often brushed under the rug.

The session allowed students to openly talk about stress, anxiety, peer pressure, social media fatigue, body image issues, and more — all under the guidance of trained and empathetic individuals. The speakers shared real-life stories, relatable experiences, and valuable coping strategies that resonated deeply with the students.

Creating a Culture of Openness

What set this event apart was its interactive and human-centric approach. The guest speakers didn’t lecture or preach — they shared, listened, and connected. By removing the stigma and judgment typically associated with mental health, the team made students feel seen, heard, and understood.

Key highlights included:

  • Engaging discussions on the impact of social media on mental health

  • Real-life experiences of overcoming mental health challenges

  • Tools and strategies to manage emotional well-being

  • Sharing of verified mental health helpline numbers and 24×7 support resources

The speakers emphasized the importance of seeking help when needed, whether it's talking to a friend, a teacher, a counselor, or calling a helpline. One of the most resonant lines from the session was:

"It’s okay to not be okay — and it’s absolutely okay to ask for help."

 Why Mental Health Conversations Matter in Schools

Mental health is not a luxury — it’s a necessity. Especially in schools, where children are in their formative years, the pressure to excel, fit in, and grow up too fast can take a toll. Emotional resilience is just as important as academic success.

By bringing awareness programs like “Breaking Stigma One Mile at a Time” into the school setting, Innocent Hearts Green Model Town is:

  • Normalizing discussions around mental wellness

  • Reducing the fear and shame associated with emotional struggles

  • Encouraging students to support one another through peer empathy

  • Building a safe and nurturing environment for all learners

 A Sustainable Approach to Student Well-being

This session is part of a larger vision where mental health becomes an ongoing dialogue, not just a one-time initiative. The school is committed to:

  • Integrating emotional intelligence into daily learning

  • Training teachers to identify signs of emotional distress

  • Offering students access to counseling and wellness resources

  • Encouraging parental involvement in mental health awareness

 A Heartfelt Thank You to the Changemakers

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Seher Hashmi, Mr. Dev Desai, Mr. Samanyu Shukla, and Ms. Nazneen Shaikh for their courageous mission. Their dedication to empowering the youth and breaking stigmas surrounding mental health is truly commendable.

Their visit has left a lasting impact on our students and staff, reminding us all that:

“Mental health is not a destination but a journey. Let’s walk it together, one mindful mile at a time.”


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