Why Mental Health Awareness is So Important in Education

Below is the transcript of a speech I delivered at my school’s annual Award Ceremony on why mental health awareness is so important in education. It was my first big speaking gig and I was so nervous, but my speech was incredibly well received by all staff, parents and pupils.

There are times in our lives where we all struggle, whether it’s a friendship issue, a work commitment or a coursework deadline, these things can all, in some way, impact our mental health. ‘Mental health’ is a phrase that has been appearing increasingly in the media over the past few years, with influential figures such as ITV journalist Mark Austin and Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge talking openly about their own challenging experiences. At least one in four people will experience a mental health problem at some point in their lives. 

A few months ago, I wrote a letter to His Royal Highness Prince Harry, now the Duke of Sussex, expressing my frustration at the standard of mental health services, and the lack of help available to those struggling. My own challenging experiences have led me to realise the importance of encouraging wellbeing and it has taken me a long time to have the courage to stand up on this stage and talk to all of you today. 

Recovery, like mental health, is not a linear journey. 

I have ups and downs, good days and bad days but I am determined to keep travelling forwards, not backwards. This journey has given me a greater purpose and I now strive to support young people with their mental wellbeing through early intervention. In February this year, I campaigned within school to raise awareness for eating disorders with the charity BEAT and, with the help of the school’s Pastoral Team, we have worked hard to improve pastoral care and promote positivity for all staff and students. The added luxury of Wednesday afternoons has provided valuable time to reflect on our school experience. In order to support Year 7 students in gaining a purposeful work-life balance and ensuring they have the best possible start to life at King Edwards, I have devised and delivered workshops called ‘Self-Care Isn’t Selfish.’ I believe self-care is the key to getting the most out of education. My passion to support students at risk of poor mental health has enabled me to reach so many people and spread my message of positivity and gratitude.

Evenings like this are so important in terms of wellbeing and offer the chance to thank those who have made a difference to the school community or have accomplished achievements of their own. They provide the opportunity to voice the thank yous and the recognition for overcoming all sorts of challenges, whatever their size.

The health and wellbeing of students here is paramount – grades and exam results are secondary to this. How can someone perform well if they are not well? Our generation has boundless potential, and yet the pressures we face are threatening to overpower us. We must remember that there is a world beyond social media and the constant cacophony of expectation and refocus our energy on the things that matter most. 

So, for everyone in the room, especially the students, if you take away anything at all from tonight, I hope it will be this: The journey to understanding your own mental health is one of both growth and patience. Appreciate what you have achieved – whether it’s a certificate for participation and effort or one for Netball, we are all here this evening because we have achieved something, no matter how big or small that may seem. In our busy lives, it is easy to underestimate how small acts of kindness can make a big difference to somebody’s day – a compliment, an expression of gratitude, even the benefit of your time. 

As my time at King Edwards draws to a close, I am truly proud to be a ‘Handsworth Girl’. My experiences here have shaped me into becoming a better, stronger and more resilient person and I hope I have made a positive difference to the school community. 

Thank you very much.