A MEANINGFUL mental well-being promotion initiative, “Bloom and Breathe,” was recently held at the National Park, bringing women together for an afternoon focused on wellness, connection, education and self-care.
According to a press release, the initiative, titled “Bloom and Breathe: A Mental Well-Being Promotion Initiative to Strengthen Coping Strategies and Increase Awareness, Recognition, and Help-Seeking for Postpartum Depression Among Women,” aimed to create a safe and supportive space for women to learn about mental well-being and postpartum depression while exploring practical ways to strengthen coping strategies.
The event featured a variety of interactive activities, including a guided yoga session, a mental health discussion, beading and painting activities, and opportunities for participants to connect and unwind in a supportive environment. Refreshments were also provided at the conclusion of the session.
The mental health component focused on increasing awareness of postpartum depression, recognising possible warning signs, understanding when and where to seek help, and encouraging women to prioritise their mental well-being.
Participants actively engaged throughout the session and shared positive feedback about the experience, highlighting the importance of creating spaces where women can openly discuss mental health while participating in enjoyable and meaningful activities.
“Bloom and Breathe” emphasised an important message: caring for one’s mental well-being is an essential part of overall health, and seeking support should never be viewed as a weakness.
The organisers hope that initiatives such as these will continue to encourage open conversations about mental health, strengthen community support, and empower women to recognise when they may need help and seek appropriate support early.
A group of medical students hosted this amazing initiative as part of their final-year project at the University of Guyana School of Medicine. The students were: Shalena Jeffers, Dawn Purdessy, Jasmine Persaud, Stephanie Ally, Kenisah Jagdeo, Kyle Stephney and Semei McGarrell.
