In honor of World Mental Health Day, Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU) organized the "Embrace and Love" Mental Health Festival on Oct 10.

This year's event featured several unique activities designed to offer students a relaxing and engaging way to relieve stress and promote mental well-being, including creative spray painting, sand table experiences, horticultural activities, assembling music boxes, making painted fans, using dynamic exercise bikes, and tasting desserts.

In the spray-painting section, students could select their own colors and templates, freely expressing their thoughts and feelings through creative artwork. The vibrant spray-painted works were displayed on panels, with many students pausing to admire the colorful creations. One student painted a bright flower and added the word "Happy" in the lower corner of her piece, reflecting her joyful mood.

The horticultural area was equally lively, with students picking flower petals and leaves to craft beautiful plant bookmarks. One student remarked: "It requires patience and attention to detail."

In the sand table section, students created miniature landscapes by sculpting mountains, digging rivers, and building gardens. These 3D creations allowed them to relax and express their creativity.

Another popular activity was assembling music boxes, where students were able to connect emotionally through the melodies, fostering a sense of inner calm. The "Smile Faces" photography display captured smiling faces of participants, spreading positive energy and the power of a smile throughout the campus.

"Do you sometimes feel emotionally troubled? Are you often distracted? Do you have problems about your relationship?" In the counseling area, students had the chance to engage directly with psychological counselors and mental health professionals, asking questions and gaining valuable insights into maintaining emotional balance.

Two special interactive sessions offered further opportunities for connection and stress relief. In the "Hug of Love" activity, students embraced dressed-up cartoon figures, experiencing the power of physical connection and emotional support. Meanwhile, the "Love Relay Corner" gave students the chance to anonymously share their worries and receive thoughtful replies, creating a private and supportive space in which students could express their concerns.

A student hugs one of the cartoon characters. [Photo/news.hzau.edu.cn]

Zhang Yanhua, associate professor and deputy director of the University’s Mental Health Education Center, explained that many students face challenges during their personal development. The park experience combined fun with mental health awareness education, encouraging students to cultivate a positive mental attitude. It also inspired them to take small steps toward social engagement, to help themselves, seek support when needed, and contribute to creating an open, inclusive campus culture that promotes mental well-being.