VALUE your mind.
This was the theme of the youth mental health forum, held at Port Hacking High School on November 17.
The school, which actively promotes mental health education through the annual event, invited guests who encouraged collaborative involvement in positive psychology sessions.
The school established the forum, which was organised by Sutherland Business Education Network, after developing a committee with surrounding schools and agencies, including Reconnect at Caringbah, School-Link, headspace, Black Dog Institute, Lions Club of Caringbah and Tribe Social Fitness.
Targeted at year 8, the forum taught students practical strategies to increase and maintain positive well-being, and participated in relaxation activities.
School psychologist Lisa Warner said many students were unaware of available support networks and often felt isolated.
"Students are often dealing with a parent with drug, alcohol or mental illness but are too ashamed to seek help, even from their friends," she said. "This was one of the major areas that the principal wanted to address.
"Sessions aimed to take away the fear and embarrassment to significantly increase help-seeking behaviours.
"It was also about encouraging them to focus on what goes well, not wrong in life, and accepting life's ups and downs."
The day was about educating young people about what they can do as a school community if they need help.
Volunteers from Sutherland Shire gyms also held physical activity workshops.