Marist Brothers Linmeyer learners encourage mental health conversations

Throughout September, the junior councillors at Marist Brothers Linmeyer raised awareness about mental health and the importance of looking out for one another.

Recognising that mental health can be difficult to talk about, the initiative encouraged honest conversations, compassion and meaningful support.

Junior councillors Kyra Gomes and Orifha Mavhungu in Grade 11 shared a thoughtful message with the school community, reminding everyone that checking in means more than simply asking, ‘How are you?’

A message from the junior councillors

“A difficult conversation to have, but it’s one we need to have. It’s not only about remembering the lives we’ve lost. It’s about the people who are still here – people who might be struggling silently, even when they look completely fine,” said Kyra and Orifha.

“We encourage you to do more than just ask someone, ‘How are you?’ Ask again. Ask, ‘Are you actually okay?’ And when they answer, listen. You don’t need to have the perfect words or know how to fix everything. Sometimes, just being there can remind someone that they don’t have to carry everything alone. Let’s choose kindness. Let’s choose connection. And most importantly, let’s choose to notice each other.”

Although September offered an opportunity to focus on mental health awareness, caring for one another remains important throughout the year.

Marist Brothers Linmeyer emphasised that it continues to strive towards a community where every learner feels seen, heard and supported, with kindness and connection at the heart of how the school cares for one another.