Participants at the second edition of an annual youth conference will learn how to recognise and address mental health challenges.

The “Big Up Yaself” national mini-youth conference will be held on January 30 and January 31 at the Botanical Gardens.

It will offer attendees a range of workshops and activities to support their personal development.

The event will be hosted by the Office of Youth Affairs and will accommodate about 250 students over two days, a government spokeswoman said.

Senior school students will attend the event on January 30, while primary and middle school students will attend on January 31.

The event will run daily from 9am to 3pm and registration will start at 8am.

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, said the event is dedicated to people under the age of 18.

She explained: “Each year, the conference is guided by a theme aligned with the Government’s National Youth Policy, a five-year initiative focused on the empowerment and development of Bermuda’s youth.

“This year's theme is mental wellness, promoting awareness and understanding of mental health.”

She said participants will learn how to recognise signs of mental health challenges.

They will also discuss their wellbeing, identify trusted sources of support and adopt strategies to maintain a healthy mindset.

Spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, the spokeswoman said. Early registration was encouraged.

The event will include a community centre ‘night out’ for primary and middle school pupils, which is to be held at three community centres.

The spokeswoman said participants will be transported from the Botanical Gardens at 5pm and will enjoy structured programmes and dinner until 9pm.

Students who won’t attend the community centre event must be collected from the Botanical Gardens between 3pm and 5.30pm.

• For more information or to register, visitwww.toyaevents.bm