Mind Matters: A Look Back at Our Inspiring Mental Health Month

Under the “Control Your Scroll” theme, all the initiatives focused on the effects of social media and technology on mental health. Elementary students were encouraged to participate in the Unplugged Challenge throughout a week, with a focus on spending less time on devices and more time enjoying the present moment. The House System added a fun, competitive element by offering points to students who took part in unplugged activities, such as reading a book, crafting, going outside, or doing acts of kindness. It was great to see so many students embrace the challenge and share their experiences of how they felt more connected to themselves and others when taking breaks from screens. Secondary students participated in age-appropriate conferences and lessons that examined the importance of digital balance and cybersecurity as they explored strategies to take control of screen time and navigate safely.

A key moment for many of our families was the parent workshop, also titled Control Your Scroll, which explored the challenges of raising children in the digital age. Our guest speaker, Mr. José Aguilar, provided valuable insights into how technology affects children’s mental health and development, encouraging parents to reflect on their own habits as well. The session was interactive and discussion-based, allowing for thoughtful exchanges on managing screen time, setting healthy boundaries, and ensuring that technology enhances rather than detracts from our children's lives. Feedback from parents has been very positive, and we are already planning follow-up events.

Our teachers also benefited from the week’s initiatives through a dedicated Digital Wellbeing session. In this workshop, educators explored strategies for balancing their digital engagement with mindful tech use. With the demands of teaching and digital resources ever-present, this session emphasized the importance of setting boundaries and unplugging when needed. By focusing on their own digital health, teachers can now better model balanced tech habits for their students, reinforcing the lessons shared throughout the week.

This past month highlighted our school’s commitment to fostering the mental and emotional well-being of our entire community, in line with Nord Anglia Education’s dedication to wellness. With the support of our MET Counseling Team, these activities have sparked important conversations and empowered students, parents, and staff alike to prioritize mental health. As we move forward, the insights and habits gained from this month will continue to shape our approach to well-being, ensuring that mental health remains a priority for everyone.