What do UWC students think about mental health?

The SOPH joins UWC in observing Mental Health and Wellness Week

The School of Public Health (SOPH) joined the University of the Western Cape (UWC) community in observing the Mental Health and Wellness Week from 5–9 October 2026. The initiative was led by the Centre for Student Support Services (CSSS).

As part of the week’s activities, the School of Public Health, led by postdoctoral fellows, organized an awareness campaign on October 7, the stakeholder engagement day. The aim of the campaign was to encourage conversations about mental health and well-being among UWC students.

A booth was set up where students were invited to reflect on what mental health meant to them, how they cared for their mental well-being, and what message of hope they would share with someone who might be struggling. Students shared their reflections on post-it notes, which were displayed on flip charts at the booth.

Their reflections highlighted how mental health is understood differently by different people. Some students described it as being aware of one’s mental well-being, others associated it with the ability to manage stress and other mental health challenges, while others described it as being at peace with oneself.

Students also shared the different ways they cared for their mental well-being, including exercising, listening to music, cooking, spending time with loved ones, and setting boundaries with people or situations that caused them stress.

In their messages of hope and encouragement, students reminded one another that difficult times do not last forever and that it is possible to overcome the challenges they may be facing.

Nearly 140 students engaged in this activity. Their reflections offered a glimpse into how students understand and experience mental health. They underscored the importance of creating spaces where students can openly discuss mental health, share their experiences, and support one another.