Santa Maria College Celebrates R U OK? Day

September 10, 2024

These are shocking statistics that make days like R U OK? Day an important reminder for us all.

At Santa Maria College, R U OK? Day is more than just a date on the calendar – it is a meaningful opportunity for the whole community to come together and focus on mental health. This annual event encourages everyone to check in on each other, open conversations about wellbeing, and support those who may be struggling. This year, our students have, again, come up with fun ways to remind everyone that mental health awareness can be both impactful and uplifting.

Crazy Socks, Big Conversations

This year’s R U OK? Day was all about celebrating individuality. Students and staff alike were encouraged to wear crazy socks over their stockings, showcasing their unique personalities while using the socks as a conversation starter. It was a simple way to spark new connections – a reminder that sometimes, all it takes is a shared laugh or a compliment to get a meaningful conversation going. Whether it was neon stripes, funky patterns, or mismatched socks, everyone got involved in this fun initiative, promoting the message that we all have a role to play in mental health awareness.

Led by Our Leaders

The day’s events were organised by the Student Leadership Executive, Wellbeing Captain Ashleigh, and a team of dedicated Mental Health Ambassadors. They kicked off the day by greeting students at the Figure 8, where they handed out yellow ribbons to wear in their hair as a symbol of solidarity. This simple act set the tone for the day, reinforcing the importance of standing together in support of mental health.

A Day of Engagement and Connection

During recess, the Mental Health Ambassadors and leaders wandered the grounds, asking their peers a simple yet profound question: “R U OK?” Along the way, they handed out yellow lollies, offering a sweet treat alongside a message of care. This small gesture encouraged everyone to take a moment to reflect on their own wellbeing and to be there for those around them.

The College Café got into the theme with R U OK? Day flags and yellow icing on their muffins. They also used fun names for their menu items like chicken schnitzel, ‘Sharing’ burger with salad and ‘Loaded with Questions’ baked potato.

At lunchtime, the Mental Health Ambassadors set up a colouring competition in the Mercy Walk, offering prizes and sparking more conversations about mental health.

The day’s activities were designed to not only raise awareness but also to provide tools and resources to help students think more deeply about mental health, both for themselves and for others.

Spreading the Message Everywhere

To keep the message of R U OK? Day front and centre, mental health messages and resources were displayed on Vivi screens and posters throughout the College. These reminders reinforced the idea that although R U OK? Day is an annual event, checking in with those around us should happen every day. Whether it’s a friend, family member or someone we don’t know well, a simple check-in can make a world of difference.

A Community Committed to Mental Health

R U OK? Day is a reflection of our commitment to fostering a supportive and compassionate community. By encouraging open conversations, celebrating individuality, and promoting awareness, our students and staff are helping to reduce the stigma around mental health.

Remember, every day is a day to ask the question: “R U OK?”

Featured, MentalHealthAmbassadors, MentalHealthAwareness, RUOK?Day, StudentLeadership, Support, wellbeing

Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.