Third year Public Relations students from Boston Media House (BMH) in Sandton rallied together to raise over R4000 for the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG).

• Their initiative, titled ‘Your Mind Matters’ showcased a deep commitment to raising awareness about mental health.
• With the funds raised, the students contributed to SADAG’s ongoing efforts, including their 24/7 suicide crisis helpline.
• The 24/7 suicide crisis helpline provides critical mental health support across South Africa.
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The campaign kicked off at the end of August 2024 with an impactful Wellness Wednesday online workshop, led by a senior counsellor from SADAG. The session, attended by students from Sandton, Arcadia, and Durban campuses, focused on mental health check-ins and offered vital education on distinguishing between depression, anxiety, and stress – conditions often misunderstood or stigmatised in society. The workshop also taught students how to recognise symptoms, when and how to seek help, and provided an overview of SADAG’s critical services. This was more than an informational session – it became the first step in empowering students to speak openly about mental health and break the stigmas surrounding it.

One of the primary goals of the ‘Your Mind Matters’ campaign was to raise both awareness and funds for SADAG. The students set out to achieve this through creative means, selling raffle tickets and hosting a vibrant Feel Good Day Campus Experience. Held on campus, this event provided a much-needed opportunity for students to unwind and recharge before their assignment deadlines while contributing to a cause that resonates deeply with young South Africans.

During the Feel Good Day, students gathered in a festive atmosphere, enjoying a break from their studies while raising funds through various activities. The event was a vibrant celebration of well-being, but it also carried a profound and moving moment. Students paused for a moment of silence to honour those who had lost their battle with depression.

This reflective tribute took place beneath a tree of remembrance in a newly landscaped garden, where candles were lit in memory of friends and family. The serenity of this moment united the campus in shared mindfulness, underscoring the importance of mental health and the power of collective awareness.

The success of the campaign was not only a testament to the students’ dedication but also to the generous support of the Boston Media House Sandton and Parkmore communities. Various local businesses and personalities came together to contribute product hampers, vouchers, and free tickets, adding value to the students’ raffle and event activities.

For the students, managing these relationships and securing partnerships gave them invaluable hands-on experience in stakeholder management – an essential skill in public relations. By navigating the complexities of sponsorships and working with local businesses, they learned the importance of teamwork, communication, and the shared responsibility of addressing important social issues. This initiative showed them that real change can happen when people and organisations rally around a meaningful cause.

The ‘Your Mind Matters’ campaign also coincided with International Suicide Awareness Day, aligning perfectly with SADAG’s mission to raise awareness about mental health struggles, particularly among young people. In South Africa, mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are prevalent, especially among university students who often face academic pressure, financial stress, and uncertainty about their futures.

By creating a space to discuss these topics openly, the students were able to break down the stigmas that so often surround mental health. The event allowed for deeper engagement with SADAG’s resources, offering students a platform to share experiences, gain insights, and feel supported. This open dialogue is crucial in helping to destigmatize mental health issues, encouraging those who are struggling to seek help rather than suffer in silence.

For the third year Public Relations students at Boston Media House, the ‘Your Mind Matters’ campaign was a personal learning experience. Beyond the classroom, they were able to apply their media and communication skills in a real-world setting, creating a campaign with tangible impact. This experience not only enhanced their understanding of public relations and event management but also instilled a renewed sense of purpose and responsibility toward societal issues.

By organising and participating in the campaign, the students gained a first-hand understanding of the importance of mental health awareness, especially for young South Africans. They also learned about the critical resources available through SADAG, such as the 24-hour Suicide Crisis Helpline (0800-567-567) and other support services. More than just a fundraiser, this initiative taught them the power of education and community action in addressing mental health challenges.

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