Honiton sixth form students celebrate World Mental Health Day

Sixth form students and staff at Honiton Community College celebrated World Mental Health Day on 10 October by hosting a #HelloYellowDay.

The day is characterised by the wearing of yellow clothing and dressing up in costumes with a yellow theme.

The bright fashion statement is part of the #HelloYellow campaign, an event run by the charity Young Minds, which champions young people and mental health.

Students at the college welcomed the chance to spread the message that 'its ok not to be ok' and appreciate the fact that everyone needs a little help at times.

Last Thursday also saw the launch of a collaborative project with Action East Devon's Headlight Project, together with Honiton Health Matters to improve the mental health and wellbeing of young people in Honiton.

The college is working alongside Honiton Health Matters and Action East Devon to make Honiton a 'Mental Health Friendly Town'.

Sarah Reeves from Action East Devon said: "The project aims to develop a mental health friendly charter for the town - where young people feel respected, understood, supported and included.

"Activities to roll out across the town are mini-sessions on understanding and coping with mental health - panic attacks, body image, social media and feelings of anxiety.

"Also, identifying welcoming places and ensuring local employers understand how to support the young people they employ.

"We want young people to get involved and have a say in shaping the project.

"We are also reaching out to parents, carers, businesses and organisations who want to help create a mental health friendly town for both young people and their families."

Student Support Lead at HCC, Nikki Thomas, summarised the exciting new venture: "Being part of this movement is essential to help our young people in the town feel their best.

"Young people who may sometimes find life difficult can flourish with the support of the kind and understanding community we hope to nurture."

If anyone would like to know more about the project, or has any ideas please contact Sarah on [email protected] or 01404 549 045.