Dundalk IT promotes wellbeing through Mental Health Awareness Week

Dundalk Institute of Technology (DKIT) recently held their Mental Health Awareness Week.

During the week, students were also encouraged to have a chat through initiatives such as The Open Door, a space to talk things through and unpack what's going on, or learn more about internal supports and local and national mental health supports.

The annual Mental Health Fair had representatives from Turas, Shine, Samaritans, Pieta, Women’s Aid, MABS, Niteline, Chime and Dundalk Outcomers on campus.

Séan O’Connell, Head of Student Counselling at DkIT said: “We were very pleased to be able to offer support, mental health outreach, community engagement, and signposting to our services for students throughout Mental Health Week.

“This is all part of our roadmap to improve the mental health of everyone in our community and prevent suicide.

“We look forward to continuing these initiatives over the coming weeks and months through Open Door sessions, Wellness Wednesdays, exam stress management, and mental health skills events.”

In addition to learning about local supports, students engaged in try out sessions for different sports such as pilates and challenged peers to some board game sessions.

Students had the opportunity to explore virtual reality through the ‘Get out of your Head & Play’ event and designing stress zombies which took place at the Mobile Digital Lab.

A meditation session was held at the end of the week, encouraging students to foster different techniques during times of anxiety and stress.