Counselling Services

Counselling Department at The Lawrence School

The students are assisted in the acquisition of knowledge, skills and attitudes to successfully manage their lives as healthy, responsible, compassionate, self-disciplined, competent, productive and respectful citizens. The school has a dedicated full-time Counsellor, Ms. Merlyn M Fernandes.

A. Individual Counselling

Students may be referred for counselling service and encouraged by parents, school staff, peers, self or based on the counsellor's observation. Concerns may include but not limited to matters relating to depression, anxiety, stress, social skills, peer conflicts, parent-child relationship, separation/divorce of parents, abuse, bullying, lack of coping skills, procrastination, poor study habits, shyness, anger, jealousy issues, teen relationships and other concerns.

B. Group Counselling

Small group counselling sessions are also conducted and consist of 3 to 7 members sharing similar concerns such as conflict resolution, anger management, developing study habits, overcoming low self-esteem, dealing with peers and so on.

C. Classroom Sessions

The Counsellor conducts regular Life Skills sessions for grades 5 to 8. The curriculum is focused on developing skills of empathy, collaboration, creativity, innovation, communication and critical thinking. Workshops are also conducted to address common concerns among various age-groups.

D. Parent and Teacher Counselling

Recommendations are made to parents, teachers and school authorities to promote student safety and well-being.

Resource for Teachers

Resource for Parents

RPWD ACT 2016

CBSE Exemptions for CWSN

CBSE Mental Health Manual

Counseling Policy

Articles and Sessions

Impact of Life Skill Classes

Cyber Safety Awareness Sessions at The Lawrence School

On the 26th of February 2025, The Lawrence School, Lovedale hosted an enlightening series of Cyber Safety Awareness sessions for students in classes 7, 8, 9, and the new class 12. These sessions were conducted by Mr. Dinesh Paranthagan, the CEO and Founder of Hackup Technology, Coimbatore. Mr. Dinesh is a recognized expert in the field of cybersecurity. He serves as a consultant for the Tamil Nadu Police Cyber Crime Department and his extensive experience includes working on critical projects for the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, showcasing his commitment to enhancing national security through technology.

Session Highlights

Interactive Learning: The sessions were designed to engage students actively, providing them with essential knowledge about online safety, data protection, and the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital age.
Practical Tools and Resources: Mr. Dinesh shared various tools and resources that students can use to protect themselves online, including data breach checks and mobile safety applications.
Empowering the Next Generation: The primary goal of these sessions was to empower students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.

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Civic Sense and Campus Cleaning Drive

The Life Skills classes that took place from February 3rd to 15th, focused on educating students about the importance of Civic Sense. This initiative is in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes the need for instilling social responsibility, respect for the environment, and a sense of community among young learners.

To ensure that the lessons were not only theoretical but also practical, the Counselor organized a Campus Cleaning Drive from February 17th to 23rd. Students of classes 7 and 8 participated in the drive. The targeted key areas of the campus:

Library and Art Block
Tennis Court
Squash Court
Staff Club
Top Flats
Cricket Field
Y Junction to JS
Church Yard
Archery Field
Hospital Block

The drive not only helped keep our campus clean but also served as a bonding experience for students, reinforcing the core values of teamwork, respect, and shared responsibility.

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Anxiety Management

A session aimed at helping Class 10 girls manage anxiety in the lead-up to their exams was conducted by the Counselor, Ms. Merlyn.

Key Takeaways:

Simple Strategies to Manage Anxiety: The counselor introduced practical methods for reducing anxiety both before and during exams. These strategies are designed to help students maintain focus and calmness throughout their exam period.
Importance of Adequate Sleep: The counselor emphasized the significance of a good night’s sleep, particularly during exam preparation. Students were reminded that sleep is essential for optimal brain function, memory retention, and overall well-being.
Deep Breathing Techniques: The role of deep breathing was highlighted as an effective tool to calm nerves and manage anxiety. A video demonstrating the Box Breathing Technique was shown, guiding the students on how to use this technique to reduce stress in high-pressure situations.
Circle of Control: To help the students manage their concerns, the Circle of Control concept was introduced. The students were encouraged to focus on aspects of their exam preparation and performance that are within their control, such as time management and study techniques, while letting go of things beyond their control, like outcomes or unexpected changes.

Additionally, students were encouraged to uphold integrity throughout the examination process.

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Abuse Prevention Week at The Lawrence School (January 27–31, 2025)

The Lawrence School observed Abuse Prevention Week from January 27 to 31, 2025, in alignment with the guidelines set by the Directorate of Education, Tamil Nadu. The week focused on raising awareness about abuse in all its forms and equipping both students and staff with the knowledge to identify and prevent it.

Throughout the week, activities included special assemblies discussing the recognition of various types of abuse, student-created posters promoting abuse prevention, and resource-sharing sessions for educators to better understand how to support students and encourage healthy relationships. Life skills classes empowered students to reflect on abuse, set boundaries, and protect themselves and others. Classroom discussions and dorm meetings provided a platform for students to share thoughts on standing up against abuse. To conclude the week, both students and staff took a pledge to maintain a safe and respectful school environment. These initiatives were aimed at fostering a culture of safety and respect within the school community.

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Recognition Certificate - Best Psychologist of the Year

Our School Counselor, Ms. Merlyn M Fernandes has been honoured as the Best Psychologist of the Year 2023 by Deccan Positive Mental Health, a respected association of mental health professionals in Telangana. This recognition acknowledges her significant contributions to the community, particularly through her free online sessions on mental well-being, which have made a positive difference in the lives of many individuals.

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Child Safety and Disciplinary Procedures

A meeting was conducted on 2nd December 2024 with the teaching staff and the school advocate, Mrs. Aruna Mohsin Sait, to discuss crucial matters related to child safety and the Tamil Nadu Education Department’s directives. The session included a review of updated guidelines, followed by a Q&A where staff members sought clarity on various child safety and disciplinary procedures. The key points highlighted during the meeting emphasized the necessity for a structured process in handling disciplinary issues, ensuring that child safety and privacy are prioritized in accordance with the POCSO Act and the state's educational guidelines. Additionally, the importance of collaboration between school authorities, counselors, and parents was underscored to maintain strict compliance with child protection standards.

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Empowering Adolescents: A Session on Drug Abuse and Digital De-Addiction

Students from The Lawrence School, Lovedale, attended an insightful session on Drug Abuse and Digital De-Addiction, hosted by Army Public School, Wellington, in collaboration with KMCH Institute of Health Science and Research. The session, held on 22nd November 2024, aimed to equip adolescents with the knowledge to make informed decisions and adopt healthier lifestyle habits.

The following students represented the school:
Class 8: Vivek Siddharth Reddy, Ananya Singh, Kavyaa Singh Kandhol. Class 9: Sowmya K, Isiri Sachin, Emayaa P S, K. Ilakkiya, Aditya Dev, Prithvi Mohanty, Rishan Nehal, Rishit Mishra, Rishiet Rajneesh Kumar, Aryaveer Agarwal. Class 10: Krishiv Agrawal, Advika Kumar

The session featured distinguished speakers:
Dr. Sathyaseelan delved into the challenges adolescents face in resisting peer pressure and experimenting with drugs and alcohol. He emphasized:

The vulnerability of the adolescent brain to substance abuse.
The correlation between personality traits and a propensity to experiment.
The physical and mental health repercussions of early drug experimentation.

Dr. Srinidhi focused on the impact of gadget overuse on Gen Z, elaborating on:

The physical and mental toll of digital addiction.
The dangers of cybersex and pornography, urging students to avoid activities that distort reality and expectations.
Practical strategies to regulate internet usage, including a self-assessment questionnaire to gauge addiction levels.

The students were accompanied by the School Counselor, Ms. Merlyn, who facilitated the participation of Peer Educators from the Anti-Drug Club. The Peer Educators are committed to disseminating the knowledge gained during the session to the broader student community, reinforcing the school’s emphasis on mental well-being and responsible behavior.

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Prevention of Sexual Harassment at the Workplace: A Session for the Support Staff

On November 21, 2024, Advocate Aruna Mohsin Sait conducted an informative session on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act for the support staff of The Lawrence School, Lovedale. Organized by the school counselor, Ms. Merlyn, the session aimed to ensure compliance with the directives of both state and central governments. It focused on raising awareness about workplace safety, providing a harassment-free environment, and empowering the support staff with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities under the POSH Act.

To enhance understanding, the session included a training video that demonstrated scenarios of workplace harassment. The video effectively illustrated what constitutes harassment, how to handle such situations, and the importance of speaking up. Real-life examples were instrumental in helping participants relate to the subject matter and grasp the concepts more clearly. The interactive session was attended by 112 support staff.

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Developing Self-Respect

The Peer Educators Emayaa P.S. and Aryaveer Agarwal from Class 9 led a session for the Class 8 girls on Developing Self-Respect on 12th November 2024. 34 students attended the session. This session focused on critical aspects of self-respect, including managing peer pressure, understanding and setting boundaries, differentiating between lust, infatuation, and love, avoiding idealisation, and exercising the right to say “No.” The session was designed to foster self-awareness, confidence, and assertiveness, especially in situations where students may feel pressured or uncertain.

Key Topics Discussed

Peer Pressure and Sticking to Personal Values
Emayaa and Aryaveer emphasised the importance of standing firm in one's values, especially when facing peer pressure. They shared personal experiences of times when they encountered peer pressure and successfully maintained their values, setting an example for the younger students on resilience and self-belief.
Maintaining Healthy Boundaries
The Peer Educators highlighted the significance of establishing and respecting personal boundaries. They encouraged the students to reflect on what feels comfortable and uncomfortable for them and how to assert these boundaries with people in a respectful yet firm manner.
Difference Between Lust, Infatuation, and Love
The Peer Educators explained the distinctions between lust, infatuation, and love, helping the students understand these feelings in a mature and thoughtful way. By addressing this, they aimed to clarify misconceptions and promote healthy perspectives on relationships. Students were encouraged to maintain respectful interactions and avoid behaviours that could be inappropriate. Additionally, the Peer Educators emphasised the potential mental health impact of early intimate relationships.
Avoiding Idealization
The session also covered the risks of idealizing others. The Peer Educators explained that placing people on a pedestal can lead to disappointment and hinder one’s own self-respect. They encouraged the students to value themselves equally and focus on mutual respect in all relationships.
Exercising the Right to Say "No"
The Peer Educators discussed the power of saying "No" and how it is an essential aspect of self-respect and autonomy. They provided scenarios and examples where saying "No" is a healthy choice, empowering students to make decisions in line with their values and boundaries.

The session was interactive, with open discussions and active participation from the Class 8 girls. Emayaa and Aryaveer’s personal stories on peer pressure resonated with the students, making the session relatable and impactful. The students asked questions, shared some of their own experiences, and practiced responses for challenging situations in a supportive environment.

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Mental Health Week at The Lawrence School, Lovedale

The Lawrence School, Lovedale, successfully hosted Mental Health Week from 7th to 11th October 2024, focusing on raising awareness and promoting a culture of mental well-being within the school community.

The week featured a series of special assemblies and interactive workshops addressing key aspects of mental health. Teachers Ms. Latha R., Ms. Sonali, Ms. Divyanka, Mr. Saravanan, Mr. Swetank, and Mr. Karthikeyan conducted workshops on themes such as self-love, transition to adolescence, emotional resilience, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and discovering oneself through life stories. These sessions encouraged students to explore and develop skills that contribute to their emotional well-being, while also providing practical strategies for handling life's challenges.

Adding a creative touch to the week, a "Gratitude Tree" activity was organised in various sections of the school, including Junior School, Prep School, Girls' School, and Senior School. Students enthusiastically participated by writing down things they were grateful for and hanging these notes on the tree. This simple yet meaningful exercise inspired a positive mindset, allowing students to reflect on the good in their lives and appreciate the small joys.

The highlight of Mental Health Week was the Mental Health Fair on 10th October 2024, which coincided with World Mental Health Day. The event drew significant interest, with 31 students and 6 teachers from neighbouring schools joining the celebrations. The fair was filled with engaging activities, informative exhibits, and computer-based games that aimed to raise awareness about mental health, encourage open conversations, and reduce the stigma associated with mental health challenges. One of the main attractions at the Mental Health Fair was the baking stall, set up by Ms. Divyanka and her students.The fair also offered yoga therapy sessions led by Ms. Sangeetha, providing relaxation and stress-relief techniques. Additionally, a separate room dedicated to music therapy was facilitated by Krishiv Agrawal of class 10, creating a calming space where participants could experience the therapeutic power of music.

The Mental Health Week at The Lawrence School, Lovedale, was more than just a series of events; it was a powerful reminder of the importance of mental well-being in education. The activities throughout the week served as a valuable opportunity for students to build resilience, connect with others, and foster a culture of empathy and support. The school's commitment to nurturing both the mind and the heart was evident in every aspect of the program.

This impactful initiative was spearheaded by the School Counselor, Ms. Merlyn and the Peer Educators - Neha Yuvraj, Krishiv Agrawal, Emayaa P, Aryaveer Agarwal, Gia John and Advika Kumar.

Workshop on Addictions for Classes 9 to 12

In alignment with the directives from the Directorate of Education, The Lawrence School, Lovedale, organised a comprehensive workshop on addictions for students of classes 9 to 12. This insightful event was generously sponsored by the Old Lawrencians batch of 1984, reflecting their enduring commitment to the school’s mission of holistic education.

The workshop was led by Ms. Pallavi Shetty and Mr. Vivel Varma from Parivarthan Counselling Training and Research Centre, Bengaluru. Both trainers, MBA graduates and certified counsellors with extensive corporate experience, have been working in the field of counselling since 2017. Their expertise ensured that students received valuable and professional guidance.

To promote open communication, Ms. Pallavi conducted a session for the girls of classes 9 to 12, while Mr. Vivek addressed the boys. This arrangement allowed for candid discussions on the psychological and behavioural aspects of addiction, tailored to their respective audiences.

The trainers explained the various types of addictions and clarified the distinction between addictive behaviours and other atypical behaviours that do not necessarily lead to addiction. A significant part of the workshop was dedicated to helping students recognize signs of dependency and withdrawal, equipping them with the knowledge to identify such issues in themselves and others.

Additionally, they addressed contemporary issues relevant to teenagers, such as the growing misconception that vaping is harmless. They also touched upon internet addiction and its potential dangers, offering practical steps for recovery and healthier habits.

The session was marked by high interactivity, allowing students to engage in meaningful discussions, ask questions, and reflect on the consequences of addictive behaviours.

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Special Assembly - Crime against Women and Children, and How We Can Become Change-Makers

On August 26, 2024, a special assembly was conducted at the Junior School by a group of students named "Change-Makers," in collaboration with the Counselor, Ms. Merlyn. The assembly focused on the significant and sensitive topic of ‘Crime against Women and Children, and How We Can Become Change-Makers.’

The participating students were:

Krisha Prasad (Class 6)
Dhhananjay Jain (Class 8)
Ananya Singh (Class 8)
Rajeev Tarade (Class 8)
Udai Singh Chauhan (Class 8)
Kavyaa Singh (Class 8)
Samyra Puri (Class 8)

The assembly opened with an introduction to the alarming rise in sexual assault cases in the country, as presented by the students. They shared recent data to highlight the severity of the issue, emphasising the urgency for change.

The students discussed the negative impact of certain movies and songs that objectify women and girls, fostering harmful attitudes in society. They also addressed the common practice of victim-blaming, explaining how survivors are often shamed rather than supported. They emphasised the importance of holding the right person accountable for crimes, rather than blaming the victim.

In a powerful conclusion, the students encouraged their peers to become role models and actively participate in creating a safer environment. The assembly concluded with the students taking a pledge to respect and protect the dignity of all individuals, committing themselves to be agents of positive change in their classrooms, dormitories, school and neighbourhood.

The assembly was a thought-provoking session, leaving a lasting impact on the students and faculty, and reinforcing the importance of standing up against crimes against women and children.

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Session on Dining Etiquettes

On August 23, 2024, a special session on Dining Etiquettes was conducted for the students of Girls School. The session, led by the Counselor, Ms. Merlyn, aimed to educate students on essential dining etiquette, covering various topics from proper body language to specific table manners.

The session was comprehensive and covered the following key areas:

Body Language at the Dining Table: Students were taught the importance of maintaining proper posture and being mindful of their body language while seated at the dining table. This included the correct way to sit, the placement of hands and elbows.
Facial Expressions: The session emphasised the significance of polite facial expressions during meals. Students were advised to avoid negative expressions that could be considered impolite or disrespectful.
Avoiding Touching All Food: The importance of handling food with care and avoiding the habit of touching multiple pieces of food before selecting one was emphasised. This was highlighted as a key aspect of maintaining hygiene and respect for others at the table.
Tea Etiquette: A segment of the session was dedicated to tea etiquette, where students learned about the proper way to handle teacups and stir tea.
Dessert Etiquette: The session also covered dessert etiquette, where students were taught the correct technique for eating desserts.

The session was not only informative but also engaging and interactive. Students were encouraged to participate and share their views actively. Relevant videos on elegant dining habits were incorporated in the session.

Ms. Merlyn advised the students to be consistent in their practice, whether at home, in school, or in social settings, to ensure these etiquettes become second nature.

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POCSO Awareness Session for New Students

On August 15, 2024, a significant session on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was conducted for the new students of classes 9 and 11 at Girls School. The session, led by the Counselor, focused on educating students about sexual abuse, the mechanisms available for reporting such incidents, and their rights under the POCSO Act.

The session for classes 9 and 11 covered several critical topics:

1. Types of Sexual Abuse:

The students were informed about the various forms of sexual abuse, including physical and non-physical abuse. The importance of recognizing these signs and understanding that abuse can happen in both public and familiar settings was emphasised.

2. Reporting Mechanism:

The Counselor explained the procedures for reporting sexual abuse, including whom to approach within the school, at home and the significance of immediate reporting. Students were assured that their safety and well-being are the school’s utmost priority.

3.Rights under the POCSO Act:

Students were educated about their legal rights under the POCSO Act, such as the right to report abuse without fear of retaliation, the right to have their identity protected, and the right to receive appropriate support.

4. Online Safety and Grooming Awareness:

The Counselor also addressed the topic of online safety, discussing how online groomers target vulnerable teens. Students were advised to practise discernment while sharing information online and to be cautious of interactions with strangers on the internet.

5. Self-Awareness and Encouragement:

The students were encouraged to be vigilant and self-aware, and not to blame themselves if they had faced any form of abuse in the past. The session aimed to empower them to speak up and seek assistance when needed.

To assess the students' understanding of the session, Peer Educators Emayaa P. from class 9 and Krishiv Agrawal from class 10, who work closely with the Counselor, Ms. Merlyn, conducted two quizzes. This interactive activity helped reinforce the key points discussed and ensured the students had a solid grasp of the topics covered.

In addition to the session for older students, age-appropriate sessions on the POCSO Act were conducted for new students in classes 5 and 6 through 8. These sessions were tailored to address the same topics in a manner suitable for younger audiences, ensuring they understood the importance of staying safe and being aware of their rights.

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Teacher Training

A workshop was conducted by Ms. Merlyn M Fernandes for the teachers on 14th August 2024. The primary objective of the workshop was to sensitise teachers to the needs of students who are differently abled, particularly those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disabilities (LD), and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). The workshop aimed to equip teachers with the knowledge to identify signs of these conditions and provide effective support in the classroom and beyond. Teachers participated in group quizzes and discussions to reinforce learning.

The teachers expressed their appreciation for the practical and insightful content as well the engaging nature of the quizzes. They found the workshop to be highly beneficial in enhancing their understanding and ability to support students with special needs.

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Session for the new class 5 students

Stepping into a new phase of education can be both exhilarating and daunting for young students. To ease this transition, a special session was organised for the new class V students on 19th April 2024. Led by the Counselor, Ms. Merlyn and a team of dedicated Peer Educators. Ranvijay Singh, Aryaveer Agarwal, and Emaaya P.S took charge of the session, aiming to create a supportive environment where students could bond, learn, and grow together.

The session kicked off with a series of engaging games and activities. Through these interactive activities, students had the opportunity to break the ice, make new friends, and build trust with their peers. From icebreaker games to group challenges, every activity was geared towards promoting inclusivity and encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones.

Each Peer Educator opened up about their struggles with homesickness, personal, emotional, and social challenges they faced during their time in school. By sharing their stories of resilience and perseverance, they not only inspired the students but also reassured them that they were not alone in their struggles.

The class 5 students were encouraged to ask questions, seek advice, and share their own thoughts and feelings. It was a moment of connection and empathy as students realized that they were part of a larger community where everyone had their own set of challenges and triumphs.

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Thriving Through Adolescence

A Reflection submitted by M. Srilakshmi, based on the session conducted by the Counselor for class 8 students as they were transitioning to class 9.

“Those who stand for nothing, fall for anything”. Adolescence is the time period between the beginning of puberty and adulthood. During this period, the body undergoes several changes alongside reproductive maturity. It begins around the age of 11 and lasts till 18 or 19 years of age.

The crucial skills all adolescents need to know are:

Critical Thinking
Creative Thinking
Problem Solving and Decision Making
Communication Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Coping with Emotions and Stress
Self-Awareness and Empathy
Vitamin N (Saying NO)

The power of saying NO…

Keeps you true to your values
Prevents exploitation
Protects you from abuse
Keeps you focused on your goals
Maintains your integrity

Boundaries in Relationships

Boundaries define where things like our identity, personhood, responsibility and control begin and end relative to the other person. Your boundaries for your family could be different from those for your friends. Whatever the relationship, we need to respect boundaries and give each other space. In a healthy relationship both people have a healthy self-esteem. They are able to be vulnerable and assert their boundaries. They feel free to think and act independently. Boundaries are a form of self-care. Without boundaries we cannot grow as a person. We need to be okay saying NO to others and also take NO for an answer.

Teenage Relationships

Teenage relationships are driven by peer pressure and momentary happiness. Sometimes, teens get into relationships to gain popularity. Very often these relationships lead to heartbreak.

Distractions to Personal Growth

Some teenagers may become overly focused on their crushes/teen relationships, neglecting other important aspects of their lives such as academics, friendship and personal development. Teen relationships can have significant impact on the teen’s mental health leading to feelings, of anxiety, depression or low self-esteem.

Immaturity

Teenagers are not adults but growing into adults. Teenagers are still emotionally immature and might make impulsive decisions.

Poor Decisions

Making poor decisions is something that is common to human experience. Here are some points to deal with poor decision making:

Acceptance - Accept that you’ve made a mistake. It is essential to avoid feeling guilt or shame but recognize that everyone makes mistakes.
Learn from it - Reflect on why the decision was poor and what you can learn from it,
Take responsibility - Take ownership of your actions and face the consequences. Avoid making excuses or blaming others for your poor decisions.
Make amends - If your poor decisions have affected others, apologise and try to make amends.
Focus on solutions - Instead of dwelling on the past, focus on finding solutions to mitigate the negative effects of your poor decision and move forward in the right direction.

“Life is the sum of all the choices you make.”

Session on Managing Emotions

In the wake of an increasingly complex and uncertain world, the importance of emotional intelligence cannot be overstated. On March 7th, 2024, the Peer Educators, Krishiv Agrawal, Advika Kumar, and Neha Yuvraj, facilitated an engaging session on the intricacies of managing emotions for the new class 12 students.

Krishiv Agrawal commenced the session by explaining the distinction between sadness and its more severe counterpart, depression. With a compassionate approach, he shed light on the pervasive nature of sadness and its potential to impact - physical and mental well-being. Krishiv articulated how prolonged sadness could detrimentally affect one's health - physical and mental.

Highlighting the physiological aspect, Krishiv described the role of cortisol, commonly known as the stress hormone, in exacerbating feelings of sadness. Through his comprehensive explanation, he imparted invaluable insights into healthy coping strategies, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of exercise in boosting serotonin levels—a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of happiness and well-being.

Neha commenced her discourse by normalizing anger—an emotion universally experienced yet often stigmatized. Neha articulated how mindfulness is a powerful antidote to impulsive outbursts, allowing individuals to pause, reflect, and respond with intentionality rather than impulsivity. Anger can be dangerous to self and others if the person is highly reactive and has a short temper.

Neha explained the three fundamental principles of anger called "Three Anger Rules": when angry, refrain from causing harm to oneself, others, or property. She suggested two techniques to deal with extreme rage - belly breathing and acupressure of the thumb.

Advika commenced her discourse by enlightening the audience about the psychological underpinnings of jealousy—a complex emotion often rooted in comparison and insecurity. She described how the tendency to measure one's worth against the perceived successes or blessings of others can give rise to feelings of inadequacy and resentment.

Advika concluded her discourse with a reminder that jealousy can catalyze personal growth and self-improvement. Rather than succumbing to the urge to pull others down in moments of envy, she encouraged her audience to channel their energies toward self-improvement and empowerment. Advika also emphasized the transformative power of gratitude in fostering contentment.

The School Counsellor, Merlyn M Fernandes empowers the Peer Educators, Krishiv Agrawal, Advika Kumar, and Neha Yuvraj to become catalysts for positive change within their school community.

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POCSO Awareness Sessions for the Support Staff Members

In a proactive measure aimed at enhancing the safety of children against sexual abuse, a series of three POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) awareness sessions were recently organized for support staff members. These sessions focused on equipping attendees with crucial knowledge and skills to effectively recognize, prevent, and report incidents of child sexual abuse.

The first session, held on March 2nd, 2024, was led by Ms. Anita Prabu, the MIC of Preparatory School, and Ms. Merlyn M Fernandes, the Counsellor. With twenty-eight support staff members in attendance, this session laid the foundation for the subsequent sessions.

Continuing the initiative, the second session was organised on March 9th, 2024, led by Mr. Saravanan, the Tamil Teacher, along with Ms. Merlyn. This session saw the participation of thirty-seven support staff members, further expanding the reach of awareness and understanding. Concluding the series, the third session was conducted on March 15th, 2024 by the Legal Assistant Ms. Nancy C and Ms. Merlyn. With a turnout of forty-eight support staff members, this session provided comprehensive insights into legal aspects and further reinforced the importance of safeguarding children from sexual abuse.

The session kicked off with a screening of the video "Komal" in Tamil. This served as an introduction to the topic, effectively engaging participants and setting the tone for the discussion that followed.

Recognizing the diverse backgrounds and varying levels of understanding among participants, the speakers ensured that technical terms were simplified, making complex legal and psychological concepts accessible to all. Throughout the session, question-answer sessions were encouraged, fostering active participation and providing clarity on the subject matter.

Key aspects covered during the one-hour session included definitions and types of child sexual abuse, important provisions of the POCSO Act, the role and responsibilities of support staff in prevention, and the importance of reporting incidents of child sexual abuse promptly.

The session concluded on a hopeful note, emphasising the significance of building a vigilant and informed community committed to creating a safe environment for children.

The POCSO awareness session was not only informative but also empowering, equipping support staff members with the knowledge and confidence to play a crucial role in protecting children from sexual abuse.

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Puberty Education for girls

The School Counsellor conducted a session on Puberty Education for the girls of class VII in February 2024. Following is a reflection submitted by one of the students.

Forty-nine girls from class VII attended the session on Puberty held in the Large Hall of the Prep School. Each girl goes through puberty at a certain age. We were educated on the signs indicating the onset of puberty, the bodily changes that occur, what changes take place in our bodies, and how to cope with adolescent issues. This was conveyed through informative presentations.

Teens are known for their moody and self-conscious behaviour. Many hormones are released in our bodies, and this can cause mood swings and food cravings. When a girl is stressed, it can impact the body, causing excessive menstruation. The stress hormone - cortisol - can affect our periods. In the olden times, girls were confined to one room and not permitted to go outside; they were also not allowed to mingle with others when they had periods. However, now social norms have evolved.

We received instruction on our reproductive system and how to take care of ourselves. Many questions posed to the Counsellor ranging from foetal development to abortion and STDs. We became aware that gender reveal is banned in India because many people abort girl children. The counsellor also taught us how to dispose of a sanitary pad safely.

Overall, the session was highly informative and helpful. We are thankful to the counsellor for her guidance.

Shreeda D

Aravalli

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Gatekeeper Training on Suicide Prevention

To tackle the pressing issue of mental health among students, The Lawrence School, Lovedale, organized a half-day workshop titled Gatekeeper Training on Suicide Prevention on the 24th of February 2024. Attended by 37 educators from 12 schools across the Nilgiris and Coimbatore regions, the workshop aimed to equip educators with essential skills to recognize and respond to students experiencing mental health crises.

The workshop, spearheaded by Ms. Merlyn M Fernandes, a seasoned psychologist from The Lawrence School, sought to dispel myths surrounding suicide while providing participants with comprehensive knowledge on various aspects of the prevention of suicide. Among the topics covered were Non-suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI), its causes, alternatives, and distinguishing it from suicidal behavior.

Throughout the session, participants delved into understanding the warning signs of suicide and learned effective techniques to respond to students in distress. Through paired activities, case study discussions, and role-plays, educators were able to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life scenarios, enhancing their understanding and confidence in dealing with student mental health issues.

One key emphasis of the workshop was the importance of referring students to appropriate mental health professionals when necessary. Ms. Merlyn highlighted the significance of collaboration between educators and mental health experts in ensuring students receive the comprehensive support they require.

The success of the Gatekeeper Training Workshop underscores The Lawrence School's commitment to promoting mental health awareness and fostering a supportive environment for students' well-being.

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Mental Health in Teens

ROUND SQUARE ZOOM POSTCARD

On the 30th of January 2024, Palmer Trinity School, USA hosted a Zoom postcard on the topic ‘Mental Health in Teens’. The following students were nominated to attend the session:

Aadya Bhatnagar - Class 11
Aiyana Singh - Class 9
Anoushka Deepak - Class 9
Rehan Abbas - Class 11
Riyo Keisham - Class 11
Vishvarajsinh Jadeja - Class 11

The School Counsellor, Ms Merlyn M Fernandes also attended the session. Students across the globe were part of the Round Square Zoom postcard. During the session, breakout rooms were organised, allowing each participant to share their perspective on mental health issues in their respective schools.

Dionne Delgado, the chief resource person explained how we respond to stress, detailing its impact on our bodies and elucidating the fight-flight-freeze response. She also gave strategies on dealing with stress - reading a book, getting enough sleep, drinking adequate water, practising mindfulness, yoga, hugging pets, or talking to a trusted person.

The students from The Lawrence School, Lovedale shared their insights on how schools could serve as shelters for those grappling with family issues, providing valuable input on the matter.

The students grasped the significance of mental health and recognized the importance of implementing a mental health curriculum in schools.

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Prevention of Sexual Harassment at the Workplace - Awareness Session

Sexual harassment at the workplace is a serious issue that can create a hostile and uncomfortable environment for employees. Preventing sexual harassment is essential to ensure a safe and productive workplace for everyone.

An awareness session on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment at the Workplace (POSH) was conducted for the staff of the School on Saturday, 27 January 2024, in the Large Hall. The resource person was Dr. Gaurav Sharma, a lawyer by profession and an Old Lawrencian. The session was in an interactive format to engage and educate staff members about the Prevention of Sexual Harassment at the workplace. The session aimed to create awareness, clarify misconceptions, and empower employees with the knowledge to foster a safe and respectful work environment.

Dr. Gaurav Sharma began the session by elucidating the legal framework surrounding POSH. He explained the key provisions of the law, emphasising the responsibility of both the employers and the employees to ensure compliance.

The inclusion of case studies added a practical dimension to the session. Dr. Sharma presented scenarios related to sexual harassment in the workplace, encouraging participants to discuss and analyze each case.

Dr. Gaurav Sharma's expertise and engaging presentation style contributed to an enlightening session. The staff members gained insights into the importance of POSH compliance, fostering a culture of respect, and the role of each employee in maintaining a safe workplace.

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Decision Making - A Session for Class 10

Neha Yuvaraj, from class 11, Advika Kumar, and Krishiv Agrawal, from class 9, conducted a decision-making session. It was an enlightening experience that made me realize the importance of decision-making in life. Without knowing how to make decisions, survival becomes difficult.

Neha discussed the ingredients for making a good decision during the session, which was the first thing I learned. She incorporated several questions to explain the process of decision-making.

Advika explained how decisions can impact our lives. Advika presented a video demonstrating that our daily habits are a series of small decisions.

Krishiv presented an overview of different types of decision-makers and explained how each of us fits into these types. Krishiv conducted an interesting activity where he invited five volunteers to display social conformity - the act of following others without making our own choices.

My life was greatly impacted by the session.

Urvi Tanna

Class 10 A

Nigiri House

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