Pallotti High School observes Mental Health Day with message of hope, access, and inclusion

Posted: Friday, October 10, 2025. 4:06 pm CST.

Building a Culture of Compassion

PHS observes Mental Health Day – Photo Credit: Anahí Canul

By Rubén Morales Iglesias:

On Friday, October 10, 2025, Pallotti High School embraced its signature white and green uniform with renewed purpose, as students and staff came together to observe Mental Health Day under the theme “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.” The day was not only a celebration of resilience but a call to action—challenging stigma, promoting access, and fostering a culture of compassion.

Students wore green ribbons, a color chosen for its symbolism of hope, strength, and healing.

“Green represents that even though we struggle—whether it’s personal loss, burnout, or emotional stress—we can grow and heal,” said Counselor Anahí Canul. “It’s about creating a safe environment where everyone feels they can talk about what they’re going through.”

PHS Counselor Anahí Canul with peer helpers – Photo Credit: Rubén Morales Iglesias

Voices That Break the Silence

Activities included video reflections, ribbon sales, and open discussions led by students and staff. Karissa Young, who served as Student Council President in 2024–25 and now continues in leadership as one of Pallotti’s Prefects, emphasized the importance of confronting stigma head-on.

Pallotti High School has for years sustained a Peer Helper Programme, which includes peer mediation, tutoring, education, leadership, and counseling. The initiative allows students to support one another through structured roles—whether offering one-on-one assistance, leading group sessions, or welcoming new students. Mental Health Day built on this foundation, reinforcing the idea that students can be powerful advocates for each other’s well-being.

“Mental illness isn’t the problem. The stigma is,” Young said. “People with mental health challenges shouldn’t be treated as less than. They’re people too—and every illness is different, requiring understanding, not judgment.”

Prefect and 2024-2025 Student Council President Karissa Young – Anahí Canul

Both Canul and Young spoke candidly about the misconceptions that still surround mental health.

“There’s a small stigma everywhere,” Karissa said. “Some people think asking for help means weakness. But it doesn’t. It means strength. It means you’re taking care of yourself.”

Canul reflected on how student engagement with counseling has grown over time.

“When I first started, it was a struggle to get students to come in. But now, I have a long list of appointments,” she said. “We’ve made it easier—students can request sessions anonymously through a box system or online forms. That way, they don’t feel exposed or judged.”

Karissa praised the system’s discretion and accessibility.

“You don’t have to go face-to-face. You write your name and class, and Ms. Canul checks the box daily. She fits you in as soon as possible,” Karissa said. “It’s respectful and really helpful. You can talk about anything—whether it’s something urgent, something with friends, or just needing support.”

PHS observes Mental Health Day – Photo Credit: Anahí Canul

Toward a More Inclusive Future

The day also encouraged students to reflect on the diversity of mental health experiences.

“Not all mental illnesses are the same,” Karissa said. “Different kinds need different things. We shouldn’t be stopping people from getting jobs or participating in life just because they have a diagnosis. We need to talk about these things—about anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and burnout—and how they affect us.”

Canul hopes Pallotti’s initiative will spark a wider movement.

“We want to start a bigger campaign—not just here, but across schools—to promote mental health awareness and inclusiveness. Most schools need more than one counselor. When you’re teaching and counseling, it’s a challenge. Having someone focused solely on mental health makes a real difference,” Canul said.

Mental Health Day at Pallotti wasn’t just symbolic—it was transformative. It reminded students that healing is possible, that asking for help is brave, and that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.

PHS observes Mental Health Day – Photo Credit: Anahí Canul

 

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The post Pallotti High School observes Mental Health Day with message of hope, access, and inclusion appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.

Posted: Friday, October 10, 2025. 4:06 pm CST. Building a Culture of Compassion PHS observes Mental Health Day – Photo Credit: Anahí Canul By Rubén Morales
The post Pallotti High School observes Mental Health Day with message of hope, access, and inclusion appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.