In today’s fast-paced, technologically driven and stressful world, mental health and peace of mind are important for everyone. To be able to think clearly and make informed decisions with a calm mind is critical whether it is to do with personal matters, work-related, finance or studies.

FNU Counsellor Dharnesh Raman

According to Fiji National University (FNU) Counsellor Dharnesh Raman, it can be challenging to broach the subject of mental health with friends and colleagues when you know they are struggling.

“Everyone goes through some level of stress at different stages of their lives, and we deal with it differently. Reaching out and listening to them can usually help them determinate the steps they can take to help themselves feel better,” said Raman.

To create more awareness around mental health and arising issues, FNU and FNU’s Student Association (FNUSA) has organised a month-long campaign to assist those who may be distressed and to assist in maintaining wellbeing.

“We have stress-relieving events such as wellness activities including Zumba sessions as part of ‘Wellness Wednesdays’ and offer free counselling services to our students and staff. Staff and students are also encouraged to reach out to family, friends and colleague on ‘Talk-time Tuesdays’ in order to connect with others and maintain healthy relationships. ‘Thankful Thursdays’ are to remind people to practice thankfulness and gratitude. Experiencing gratitude, thankfulness, and appreciation tends to foster positive feelings, which in turn, contribute to one’s overall sense of wellbeing,” said Raman.

According to the statistics released by the Fiji Police Force, seventy-two suicide-related cases were recorded between January and August this year. Out of the 72, five deaths involved children under the age of 17 with two deaths between the ages of six to 12.

“FNU has also introduced the ‘Ask, Listen, Motivate, Ask again’ (ALMA) initiative inspired by the international “R U OK?’ campaigns. The “R U OK?” is an Australian non-profit suicide prevention organisation, founded by advertiser Gavin Larkin in 2009 which advocates for people to have conversations with others,” informed the FNU Counsellor.

“Through this campaign, we encourage staff and students to reach out to their loved ones who may show signs of mental stress and or may need someone to talk to,” highlighted Raman.

“Through our Mental Health Awareness Month, we are also trying to break the culture of silence.”

The month-long event will culminate with the World Mental Health Day on 8th October.

FNU Counsellor Varsha Naidu provides counselling service to a student.