Time together, connection, and healthy choices take center stage at this year's Prevention Day
The Commercial College of Iceland (Verslunarskóli Íslands) hosted today's Prevention Day symposium, marking the event's 21st year. The president of Iceland, the mayor of Reykjavík, and the Director of Health delivered speeches during the ceremony.
Prevention Day specifically targets students in grade 9 of primary school and their first year of secondary school. The day's goal is to encourage discussion about factors that support the welfare and healthy development of young people. Students learn about age-appropriate research findings. They discuss the value of spending time together, participating in sports and leisure activities, and allowing the brain to develop without the influence of alcohol and other intoxicants.
Afterward, students work in groups, enter their ideas, and participate in projects designed to strengthen the protective factors in their lives and reduce risky behavior.
The importance of good relationships and compassion
In her address, President of Iceland Halla Tómasdóttir emphasized the significance of connection, compassion, and conversation. The president asked what kind of society we want to build. She urged young people to listen to one another and notice those who might be standing on the sidelines. Additionally, she challenged young people to put their phones down occasionally, look at one another, and participate in public conversation through the Tölum saman (Let's Talk) project.
Conditions that help youth thrive
Mayor of Reykjavík Hildur Björnsdóttir described the teenage years as a crucial but challenging time when identity, values, and a vision for the future take shape. She emphasized that society's role is to create conditions where youth can thrive and make good decisions.
In that context, the mayor highlighted the importance of organized sports and leisure activities, time with family, and access to education and facts that help young people take responsibility for their own lives and health. She also underscored the value of friendship, encouraging young people to support one another and seek help when needed.
The brain needs room to develop
Director of Health María Heimisdóttir spoke about the necessity of allowing the brain to develop without alcohol and other intoxicants. This serves as a core theme of Prevention Day, which uses research-based education to help young people make informed decisions about their health and future.
For many years, Prevention Day has provided a vital forum for talking with young people about well-being, healthy lifestyles, and the protective factors that research shows matter most for their future prosperity.
Best at being ourselves
Commercial College students Edda Sól Óladóttir and Magnús Geir Björgvinsson also spoke. They noted that each person is best at being themselves, and that this authenticity allows everyone to reach their full potential. They also emphasized that people should show compassion and think about how they treat one another.
Photos by Jón Aðalsteinn Bergsveinsson.
