Orchids The International School, Newtown conducted a workshop in collaboration with Konnect_Your therapist on the mental well-being of children

On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, Konnect_Your therapist along with the team ( Dr Sonalka Mondol Mbbs, MD Psychiatry, Debjita Majumder Psychologist & Abira Deb Kundu,Mental Health Activist/ Co-Founder Konnect) organised a free workshop in Orchids The International School, Newtown on the mental well-being of children. We were blown away by the great zeal and energy of the crowd.

The students shared their own experiences of various mental health concerns. It was really good to see the young generation being so much aware of mental health & wellbeing. Most of the students shared their views related to anxiety & exam stress. A handful of them spoke about their relationship with their parents and so on. Overall the session was conjoint.

Formerly we were associated as a faculty with one of the elite schools of Kolkata. Communicating with children daily we felt that most of the children are going through this scenario. Children are too young to understand what they’re feeling or going through, so they don’t talk about it. Loving relationships are key to children’s mental health, which was really missing, as most of the kids belong to the nuclear family where both the parents are working. From that point of time, we planned for this where we can help society, not only the children but also the adults, and can make them aware of the importance of mental health.

The objective of Konnect_Your therapist is mainly to break the taboo and make people understand mental health is similar to physical health. As we consult a proper doctor for our physical health, it's absolutely fine to consult a psychologist or psychiatrist for our mental well-being. It reduces the stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness and seeking treatment. Without treatment, mental health disorders can reach a crisis point.

~Abira Deb Kundu & Debjita Majumder Founders, Konnect_Your Therapist

This workshop has been a significant and transformative experience for our students. They address a crucial issue that often goes unnoticed but profoundly affects the lives of our students. Mental health is a topic that cannot be understated, and this workshop has shed light on its importance. It was not only informative but also sensitive and empathetic. They created a safe space for our students to discuss their feelings and concerns openly.

~ Ms Sharmili Shah, Principal, Orchids The International School, Newtown

The session conducted by Abira, Debjita, and Dr. Sonalika on World Mental Health Day was brilliant. Teenagers go through a lot of changes and it becomes all the more important to honor those who may be struggling and support them. This session helped students to be aware of the importance of mental health and reduce the stigma that can accompany such challenges.

~ Ms Rashmi Shaw Secondary English Teacher, Orchids The International School, Newtown