Dunoon Grammar School has set up a mental health committee headed by one of our excellent guidance teachers. The committee is primarily made up of students supported by a couple of members of staff including myself. We feel strongly about changing attitudes towards mental health and want to break down the associated stigma. Our school is at the heart of the community and will be the pilot school for this initiative. We want to get people to talk openly about their mental health and wellbeing. The committee works alongside mental health charities. We will receive mental first aid training to help us help others. We are planning a launch event on the 1st February 2018.

I committed to run a marathon as part of a staff challenge. I hope to incorporate this into our launch event along with other staff members who have also set themselves running challenges. Hopefully some of the students will run too!

My own commitment to this mental health initiative was strengthened six months ago when a good friend of mine took his own life. Mental health issues are affecting more and more people every day. We need to offer help and support now!

All donations gratefully received by Dunoon Grammar School's Mental Health Committee.

Thank you.