At Co-op Academy North Manchester, pupils engaged in a presentation led by our Academy Community Pioneer, Julianne Noon, aimed at raising awareness. Julianne shared insights on how she supports her own and others' mental well-being, discussing strategies to aid those struggling with their mental health.

Throughout the sessions, pupils and Julianne crafted green bands to promote mental health awareness, and explored the concept that mental health can sometimes be an invisible disability. They also viewed a brief video emphasising how physical activity can uplift your mood, and improve both physical and mental health.

Julianne added, ‘it was a pleasure to speak to the pupils about mental health. This was something that wasn’t done when I was at school. It was great to hear some of the tactics the pupils shared that will really help my own personal well-being ’. 

Some of the pupils who attended the session shared what helps them with their own mental health:

“I make my favourite food when I’m not feeling 100%”

 “Having good mental health doesn’t mean you have to be happy all the time. I love seeing things that raise awareness especially for good causes”.

“This has really cheered me up making these bands and having some time to talk to my friends”.

If you or someone you know needs any support with mental health, then reach out or visit https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/.

We've also shared lots of links to organisations on the webpage below.