HLSCC Campus Wellness Day Highlights Mental Health
H. Lavity Stoutt Community College held a Campus Wellness Day on October 9 under the theme “Mental Health Matters — and so do YOU,” bringing students, faculty and staff together to discuss anxiety, depression and coping strategies. A panel led by Dr. Albert Thompkins with psychologists Dr. Michelle Martin and Dr. June Samuels promoted open dialogue, stigma reduction and access to support networks.
Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) hosted Campus Wellness Day on Thursday, October 9, at the College Atrium in Paraquita Bay, using the theme “Mental Health Matters — and so do YOU.” The event aimed to raise awareness about mental well-being among students, faculty and staff and to encourage honest conversations about issues that affect academic performance and everyday life.
A central feature of the day was a panel discussion titled “Breaking the Stigma – Talking Openly About Mental Health,” led by HLSCC Director of Student Affairs Dr. Albert Thompkins alongside psychologists Dr. Panelists addressed common concerns such as anxiety and depression and offered practical coping strategies for managing academic pressures, personal stressors and work–life balance.
Thompkins said the initiative was designed to create safe spaces where students feel comfortable sharing their experiences. “Creating safe spaces for students to talk openly about their experiences helps reduce stigma and build stronger, healthier communities,” he said. Attendees were also introduced to tools and community support networks intended to strengthen resilience and provide ongoing help both personally and professionally.
For residents of the British Virgin Islands, the event underscored the particular importance of mental health in a small, closely connected community where social pressures and limited anonymity can intensify stigma. HLSCC, as the territory’s primary tertiary institution, plays a key role in supporting young people during transitional periods that often bring increased stress, such as entering higher education, balancing employment and studies, and planning careers.
The Department of Student Affairs described Campus Wellness Day as part of HLSCC’s continuing commitment to student wellness, linking mental health to academic success and overall community wellbeing. Information shared at the event pointed students toward campus counselling services and local health providers, and encouraged peer support and early help-seeking.
Organisers said they plan to continue similar events throughout the academic year to maintain momentum around mental health awareness and to build stronger referral networks between the college and community services. HLSCC students and staff are encouraged to contact the Student Affairs office for information on counselling and support resources available on campus and in the wider BVI community.
Primary source: JTV