Let the teenage girl laugh freely, without fear

Protecting Period Health and Mental Well-being: A Student-Led Movement at Pushpokoli School

On May 28, we observed Menstrual Hygiene Day at Pushpokoli School with deep commitment and reflection. Throughout the month of May, we organized three awareness sessions focused on menstrual health and hygiene. These sessions not only aimed to educate but also opened a safe space for our young girls to voice their needs, concerns, and ideas.

What stood out most was that the students themselves became the changemakers. They shared powerful suggestions that shaped our next steps. They requested:

• A secret (private) room for menstrual emergencies
• Dedicated bathrooms for girls
• Access to menstrual hygiene products
• Availability of medical support

We took every suggestion seriously. As a result

✅ A secret room and dedicated girls’ bathroom have already been set up.

✅ From June, we will begin regular medical sessions to support menstrual health.

But the students opened another critical conversation: mental health during menstruation.

Many girls spoke bravely about feeling anxious, irritable, emotionally overwhelmed, and even hopeless during their periods. Their openness revealed a need far deeper than physical care—it highlighted the emotional and psychological burden many adolescent girls silently carry during menstruation.

In response, our school has decided to launch a Mental Health Support Program starting in June. A dedicated team will focus on:

• Building emotional resilience
• Offering safe spaces for girls to express their feelings
• Providing counseling and mental health resources

At Pushpokoli School, we believe that education must address both body and mind. We are proud that our students are not only learning—but leading. Their voices are shaping a more inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment for every girl.

This is not just a school initiative. This is a movement of young changemakers, and we are committed to walking beside them, every step of the way.