By Rachel Pinto 

Don Bosco Chinchwad organized a two-day comprehensive mental wellness workshop, "Discovering of YoU," on October 7-8, 2024, for its students and staff. The workshop aimed to promote holistic well-being, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence. Renowned resource person, Fr. Ajay D'Monte, facilitated engaging sessions

The workshop focused on crucial aspects of mental well-being, including:

1. Personality Development

2. Healthy Relationships

3. Group Building and Dynamics

4. Addictions

5. Pain and Trauma Healing

6. Life Patterns

7. Emotional Balance and Stress Management

Fr. Ajay conducted additional sessions for teachers and staff covered:

It had a profound impact on the teaching staff. The sessions empowered teachers to better understand and support students from diverse backgrounds.

By attending the sessions, teachers gained valuable insights to:

1. Identify individual student struggles

2. Provide personalized guidance

3. Foster a supportive learning environment.

Fr. D'Monte asked the teachers to identify the issues they discover. The teachers shared the following points in the group discussion;

1. Anxiety Disorders

2. Depression

3. Stress

4. Substance Abuse

5. Trauma

6. Personality Disorders

7. Psychosis

8. Eating Disorders

9. Sleep Disorders

10. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder 

They also shared the modern days concerns; 

1. Social Media Addiction

2. Cyberbullying

3. Online Harassment

4. Screen Time Addiction

5. Loneliness and Isolation

6. Burnout

7. Chronic Stress

8. Body Image Issues

9. Self-Esteem Concerns

10. Trauma

Mr. Nilesh Chandgude, Principal, praised the sessions. "Fr. Ajay's sessions were incredibly fruitful and beneficial for our staff. Understanding each student's unique needs is both challenging and inspiring. These sessions have equipped us to create a more inclusive and nurturing environment."

Students praised the workshop:

- Frankie Parera (Electrician student): "The workshop helped me discover myself."

- Nishant Jadhav: "Fr. Ajay's creative approach made the sessions engaging and lively."

Mr. Vincent Dias, on behalf of the Institute, thanked Fr. Ajay for his availability and dynamic facilitation.

Don Bosco Chinchwad Institute is committed to accompanying students throughout their academic journey, fostering holistic development through:

1. Initial trade course selection guidance

2. Ongoing counseling for personal and academic growth

3. End-of-training guidance for industry or apprenticeship placement

To further support students, the institute plans:

1. Appointing a trained counselor to provide expert guidance

2. Offering industry interfaces and exposure

3. Facilitating apprenticeship opportunities.