By Mikateko Mohlala
In a powerful show of solidarity, the University of Limpopo’s peer counsellors launched a mental health awareness campaign to break the silence around stress, anxiety, and depression, while encouraging students to seek support and lean on one another.
The campaign featured a walk for mental health awareness, where peer counsellors engaged students with free hugs and balloon-popping activities. The initiative aimed to break the stigma surrounding mental health and invite students to visit D Block for counselling, whether for academic, relationship, or personal challenges. The rally began at D Block, passed through Gate 2, and circled around the library.
Peer Counsellors offering free hugs to students as part of their mental health awareness campaign. Photo by: Mohau Seleka
Explaining the symbolic activity, Dorothy Malemela, a Student Counsellor and Coordinator for Peer Counsellors, said: “Popping the balloons represents letting go of fear. People go through a lot and need healthy ways to express their feelings. Instead of taking frustrations out on someone, this activity allows clients to release their emotions safely.”
Students also shared how the activity impacted them. Matilda Mafemo, a third-year Social Work student, said:“Writing my fear on the balloon and popping it really helped. I felt relieved, like something was lifted off me.”
The peer counsellors highlighted the importance of raising awareness about counselling services available at D Block, ensuring that no student has to face struggles alone.
Peer Counsellors spreading positivity with free hugs and mental health awareness messages. Photo by: Mohau Seleka
A major goal of the event was to challenge misconceptions about mental health, such as the belief that depression disappears overnight or that anxiety does not exist. The event invited students to seek professional support on campus.
Lebogang Phalane, a third-year BSc Agriculture and Plant Production student, shared: “I will definitely come to D Block before exam season because school can be overwhelming.” Malemela further emphasised the importance of seeking help: “There is a high rate of students struggling with mental health but not speaking out. We want students to practice mindfulness and to feel welcome to come to D Block for counselling.”
The event was regarded as a success, with peer counsellors sharing information on stress management, suicide prevention, depression, and other mental health challenges, while reminding students that help is always within reach.
