Last week, Hull College hosted its annual ‘Smile and Breathe’ Week - five days of themed lessons and activities to promote positive mental health and wellbeing.

All Institutes within the college got involved throughout the week, which kicked off on Monday 18th October with all students challenged to complete a random act of kindness throughout the day.

We were also delighted to welcome Pride of Britain Award winner Jamie McDonald - aka AdventureMan - over two days, which saw more than 1,000 students listen to his inspirational talks about the barriers he has overcome in life and the importance of building resilience. Reflecting on the event afterwards, Jamie said: “The students and staff at Hull College were amazing. Their behaviour and compassion was outstanding. They are all superheroes!”

Working with YADA YADA NOISE, we hosted a Spoken Word Open Mic Night with a Smile and Breathe theme. The event, which saw Hull College students, staff and alumni participate, was held at the Institute of Arts on the evening of Tuesday 19th October.

Students were also given the opportunity to enjoy a FREE healthy breakfast on the morning of Thursday 21st October, with the event hosted by the Hull College Counselling Service. Breakfast is often described as ‘the most important meal of the day' - and for good reason, too as many studies have shown it helps to improve energy levels and the ability to concentrate in the short term. Along with tucking into food, students had the opportunity to speak with external mental health services such as GigBuddies, Mencap and The Warren Youth Project. We were also delighted to welcome Liv Robinson from MIND, who gave an informative presentation to our Early Years and Health and Social Care students.

In addition to all of that, tutors ran a wide variety of sessions throughout the week which included meditation, yoga, stress management and the importance of healthy eating, along with getting students to produce mood boards.

Our Beauty students also got involved, putting the impressive skills learnt whilst studying at the college to good use, by offering relaxing hand and scalp massages to both students and staff. Aside from the physical benefits, message therapy also provides numerous mental and emotional benefits. Enjoying massage therapy releases tension in your mind, creating a better sense of awareness yet simultaneously allowing clearer thinking, better sleep, and reduced anxiety

The wellbeing of our students is very important to us, which is why we offer a free and confidential service to all Hull College students. To find out more about our Counselling Service, or to make an appointment, please email listen@hull-college.ac.uk or text 07860023367 and a member of our team will be in touch as soon as possible.

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