CDSBEO International Students Retreat: A Day of Connection and Mental Health Awareness
On Monday, February 10, CDSBEO International Students gathered for a retreat event to engage in a day filled with food, activities, and valuable discussions. The retreat began with a heartfelt land acknowledgment and a prayer, setting a tone of respect and gratitude.
The Importance of Mental Health
One key focus of the retreat was mental health, a critical topic that resonates deeply with many international students. Moving to a new country is a transformative experience, often accompanied by unique challenges such as loneliness, cultural adjustment, and the pressure of academic and social integration. The retreat aimed to address these challenges head-on, providing students with tools and strategies to support their mental well-being.
Step Forward If…
The day kicked off with an engaging activity titled “Step Forward If,” designed to highlight shared experiences among students. Statements like “You have felt lonely since coming to Canada,” or “You find it hard to make friends at your current school” encouraged students to step forward together, fostering a sense of solidarity and understanding. This exercise visually demonstrated that while each student comes from a different background, their struggles and feelings are often similar.
Making Friends and Building Connections
Another significant part of the retreat was focused on the challenges of making friends in a new environment. Students participated in “The I in Image” activity, where they chose images that resonated with them and shared their reasons in small groups. This activity was designed to help students recognize common interests and initiate conversations, thus building meaningful connections.
Participants were encouraged to identify qualities they value in friendships, look for peers with shared interests, and take proactive steps like joining clubs or sports teams. Practical tips, such as making eye contact, smiling, and initiating simple conversations, were shared to help students build confidence in their social interactions.
Communicating with Host Families
The retreat also addressed the dynamics of living with host families, emphasizing the importance of clear communication. Students were advised to express their needs and feelings openly and to use available tools like translation apps when necessary. The session highlighted that mutual understanding and patience are key to fostering a positive relationship with host families.
Reaching Out for Help
Reaching out for help is often daunting, especially in a new country. The retreat provided guidance on how to start conversations about mental health, whether in person, via text, email, or letter. Students were reassured that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and were provided with resources such as the Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868) for immediate support.
Outdoor Activities and Well-being
The importance of spending time outdoors was also emphasized. Despite the cold Canadian winters, activities like sledding, building snowmen, and the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding exercise were highlighted for their benefits in reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm.
The CDSBEO International Students Retreat was an important day for students to connect, share their experiences, and gain valuable insights into managing their mental health. The retreat fostered a sense of community and support, reminding students that they are not alone on their journey. As they navigate the challenges of studying abroad, these young individuals are equipped with the knowledge and tools to thrive both academically and personally.
Special thanks to the CDSBEO International Education Team as well as the CDSBEO Mental Health Team for organizing such an impactful event. The retreat not only addressed the immediate needs of the students but also laid a foundation for lasting connections and ongoing support.
