World Mental Health Day is observed on 10th October every year, with the overall objective of raising awareness of mental health issues around the world and mobilizing efforts in support of mental health.The theme for 2018 was “Young people and mental health in a changing world”.

“Adolescence and the early years of adulthood are a time of life when many changes occur, for example changing schools, leaving home, and starting university or a new job. For many, these are exciting times. They can also be times of stress and apprehension however. In some cases, if not recognized and managed, these feelings can lead to mental illness. The expanding use of online technologies, while undoubtedly bringing many benefits, can also bring additional pressures, as connectivity to virtual networks at any time of the day and night grows”- World Health Organization.

FPA Sri Lanka believes that promoting and protecting adolescent health brings benefits not just to adolescents’ health, both in the short- and the long-term, but also to economies and society, with healthy young adults being able to make greater contributions to the workforce, their families and communities and society as a whole.

Ms Hema Ranawake (Senior Manager, Alokaya Conselling Centre) was invited to speak at an event organized by Rathnawalie Balika Vidyalaya, Gampaha for their grade 9 and 10 students to mark World Mental Health Day.

Topics addressed were:

What is Mental Health
What are the issues adolescents face and coping mechanisms 
Planning for a successful future ( setting goals)
The importance of setting goals in life
How to set goals (SMART)
Best way to achieve your goals