Event Report: Youth Activity – Mental Health and Understanding Emotions

Date: Friday, May 9, 2025

Location: RAFIO Premises – 235 Montréal Road, Ottawa, Ontario

Theme: Understanding Emotions and Mental Health Awareness

Activity Overview

On Friday, May 9, 2025, RAFIO organized a youth workshop for adolescents aged 11 to 17 focused on mental health and emotional awareness.

The objective of this activity was to help young people recognize, understand, and express their emotions while breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health. The session provided a safe and supportive environment where participants could openly discuss their feelings and learn more about emotional well-being.

The activity took place in a warm, dynamic, and participatory atmosphere. The youth demonstrated strong interest and engagement throughout the evening's activities.

Activities Conducted

Several interactive and educational activities were organized during the workshop, including:

• An engaging icebreaker activity called “The Emotion Corners Game,” where each corner represented a different emotion (joy, anger, fear, and sadness);

• An open discussion on the meaning and purpose of emotions;

• A conversation about the difference between mental health and mental illness;

• A guided reflection on strategies for managing emotions effectively;

• Viewing an inspiring video featuring the testimony of a young woman living with bipolar disorder.

These activities helped participants gain a better understanding of mental health realities and develop a more informed and positive perspective on the subject.

Participation and Feedback

The participants actively engaged in the discussions and activities. The exchanges were meaningful, honest, and constructive.

Many young people reported that the workshop changed their perception of mental health, helping them see it as an essential component of overall well-being rather than a taboo topic. The activity received positive feedback from participants, with an overall satisfaction rating of 8 out of 10.

Closing of the Activity

The activity concluded in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere with a shared meal. This informal gathering allowed participants to continue their conversations and strengthen the connections they had built throughout the evening.

The youth also expressed interest in attending a future workshop focused on anxiety, a topic that will be addressed during an upcoming session.

Conclusion

This mental health and emotional awareness workshop provided young people with valuable opportunities to better understand their emotions and strengthen their awareness of psychological well-being.

The participants’ engagement and the quality of the discussions highlight the importance of continuing this type of educational and awareness-raising initiative to support mental health, personal growth, and overall well-being within RAFIO’s youth community.