CONVERSATIONS opened up around addiction, depression and eating disorders at a college mental health day last week.

Wellington College in Crowthorne held its inaugural Community Mental Health day on Saturday, February 8, where 40 speakers and practitioners talked about a variety of taboo topics and workshops.

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Students, staff and parents took part in activities which boosts wellbeing and mindfulness, such as hand massages, pottery making, mindful colouring and yoga.

Delyth Lynch, organiser, said: “I was delighted with the way in which the community simply embraced this event. The enthusiasm which was shown – particularly by the pupils – was inspiring and many are already asking when the next one will be.

"There were so many motivating and personal messages delivered throughout the day by our speakers and there is no doubt that it has been very impactful on pupils, staff and parents.”

Talks were held to break down stigmas which still shrouds mental health as a whole, with difficult topics such as addiction and depression.

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After lunchtime, mental health campaigners Rachel Kelly and Luke Sutton signed books and Mr Sutton officially opened two way-marked running routes which are used by the College community as part of a project set up within England Athletic's #runandtalk scheme.

Students also learned how to eat well for good mental health, how to manage a mental healthy working environment and financial wellbeing.

Activities ranged from calligraphy, slacklining to boar games, which can help improve cognitive function and help you feel more positive.

The day was praised by residents in the community, to draw people of all ages together with one person saying: "it was a brilliant day — so much fun even though the topics were serious."