World mental health day was marked on 10th October 2020, and was deemed to have been one of 'the most important to date'. Given the months of lockdown, and enforced isolation we have all experienced as a result of COVID, the #lonelynotalone campaign felt a particularly relevant one for our school to support. The campaign was conceived by young people, for young people and aims to highlight the impact of loneliness amongst this group . The CO-OP foundation have produced a report on youth loneliness, highlighting that ' in particular young people are experiencing loneliness in striking numbers'. 65% of young people in this research highlighted that loneliness was a problem for them.
This campaign encouraged the wearing of brightly coloured socks, to show a sense of solidarity and awareness for those who may be struggling with a sense of loneliness. It was wonderful to see so many staff and students involved in this campaign, a subtle but powerful way to say ' Its hard being lonely, but we're in this together.
In my daily work as the school counsellor, I am also struck by increasing numbers of students who have reported feelings of increased anxiety and stress, as a result of the events of this year. Both in my role, and within our wider pastoral support system, we are continually encouraging an open and non -judgemental dialogue about students' mental health, in terms of both their shared and individual experiences.
Here are a few photos of our Bright Socks Day in support of the Lonely, Not Alone Campaign!
