As we enter the month of May, Rio Hondo welcomes Mental Health Awareness Month. To kick off this month, Student Health & Psychological Services hosted a kick-off party on Thursday May 1 in the Upper Quad. This event was filled with different activities, such as bowling, and other engaging activities such as massages. The first 80 attendees were given a free chair massage and the first 200 attendees were given free acai bowls.
As students walked past the event, they were able to see a green wall full of kind words. This Wall of Kindness was filled with reminders that can show individuals they are never alone. Students were able to add their own kind words, sharing some reminders of their own. Oftentimes, individuals seek kind words as reminders that they are worth more than they realize. This thoughtful addition to the event made it easy for attendees to want to engage in the event.
Walking down the event, students can see different games being played in the middle of the event. Bowling was set up, making for a fun distraction for students to forget anything they may be stressed about. This entertaining activity was found in front of the DJ booth, allowing students to enjoy music while playing. A photobooth was included, allowing students to take memorable pictures with friends. The scenery allowed students to escape from reality for the amount of time they were participating, permitting them to forget they were at school in the first place.
Strolling more down the upper quad, the Student Health & Psychological Services workers were seen under a canopy. Under the canopy, they were handing out green t-shirts, honoring Mental Health Awareness. For readers, there were green book marks with kind reminders printed on them. The kind smiles and friendly demeanor allowed attendees to feel comfortable and influenced to engage in the event.
Under a large and private canopy, there were bean bags for attendees to relax in private, not being seen by everyone passing by. While some individuals were relaxing, others were being transported to a peaceful space while receiving a massage. This thoughtful addition to the event made for a peace of mind for those engaging in the massage.
Interested in participating in more of these peaceful events? All throughout the month of May the Student Health & Psychological Services will be hosting several events, such as Mindful Mondays every Monday of the month. To ensure you are up to date with these events, make sure to check your emails for more information.