Children’s Mental Health Week takes place this week with the aim of raising awareness of the importance of children’s mental health.

This is an important time to remember to think of others and to be conscious of the people around us and their mental health as well as our own, ensuring that we are taking care of ourselves. The theme of this year’s campaign is connection and at Ipswich School there will be different activities in form time to help us connect with each other, and to share what makes us feel good.

Our Wellbeing Co-ordinator, Miss Woodmansey, wants to encourage students to register for the Task Master challenge taking place across the week, which is an exciting opportunity to play Task Master with students across the country. Here is the link to sign up for free: https://taskmastereducation.com/

At Ipswich School we will also be supporting the cause with a special Wellbeing e-edition of the Occasional that will arrive in your school email inbox this week, with ideas about improving your wellbeing and where to go if you need more help.

Abby C and Kate S, Year 11
Illustration by Bella E-N, Year 11

Connecting with others on a physical and emotional level can improve our health and overall wellbeing.

Other research suggests that social isolation can increase chances of death by at least 50%.

Not to mention, a lack of human connection was found to be more harmful than obesity and smoking.

Nothing is more important than feeling socially connected, especially in an increasingly isolated world.

Expressing emotions, our brains release dopamine and endorphins, neurotransmitters which are responsible for happiness and mood.

Connecting with someone doesn’t have to always include words. Time spent in relative closeness and experience can also be a bonding experience.

Talk to someone. Seeking help is one of the bravest and most helpful steps you can take to overcome loneliness.

Henry L and Even T, Year 11