Laval, France – Students at Lycée d’Avesnières are turning to a classic fundraising method – bingo – to support a project aimed at improving mental health awareness among their peers. For the third consecutive year, the Interact 53 association, a student-led group focused on international aid, will host a bingo night on Sunday, March 29, 2026, with proceeds dedicated to purchasing and distributing graphic novels addressing mental wellbeing. This initiative, dubbed “Action BD psy,” reflects a growing recognition of the importance of mental health support within the school community and beyond.
The bingo event, scheduled for 2:00 PM at the lycée located at 51 rue d’Avesnières in Laval, will raise funds for a collection of bandes dessinées (comic books) published by Les Arènes. These comics tackle sensitive topics such as stress, anxiety, self-confidence, bullying, and depression, offering accessible and relatable narratives for young readers. According to Interact 53, the comics are created in collaboration with mental health professionals to ensure accuracy and sensitivity. Each bingo card will cost €4, with all proceeds directly benefiting the project.
“The bingo will finance graphic novels on the theme of mental health. We will distribute them in the schools of Laval,” explained a representative of Interact 53, as reported by Ouest-France. The association intends to make the comics available to students through the school’s centre de documentation et d’information (CDI), or library and resource center.
Addressing a Critical Necessitate
The decision to focus on mental health resources stems from a broader awareness of the challenges facing young people. Rates of anxiety and depression among adolescents have been steadily rising in recent years, prompting schools and communities to seek innovative ways to provide support. Graphic novels, with their visual storytelling and engaging format, offer a unique avenue for addressing these issues in a way that resonates with students.
Paul-Victor Raysz, a member of Interact 53, highlighted the association’s commitment to supporting various causes. “Last year, we raised money for school supplies,” he noted, demonstrating a pattern of student-driven philanthropy. This year’s focus on mental health reflects a shift towards addressing more complex and often overlooked needs within the student population.
The choice of graphic novels as a medium is particularly noteworthy. Research suggests that visual narratives can be highly effective in conveying complex emotional information and promoting empathy. By providing access to these resources, Interact 53 hopes to destigmatize mental health challenges and encourage students to seek help when needed. The comics will be a valuable addition to the CDI’s collection, offering a readily available source of information and support.
The Power of Visual Storytelling
Les Arènes, the publisher of the graphic novel series, specializes in producing comics that tackle social issues. Their function often features collaborations with experts in relevant fields, ensuring that the content is both accurate and sensitive. The “Action BD psy” project builds on this foundation, leveraging the power of visual storytelling to promote mental wellbeing.
The initiative as well aligns with broader efforts to improve mental health literacy among young people. By providing access to resources that address common mental health challenges, Interact 53 is empowering students to recognize the signs of distress in themselves and others, and to seek appropriate support. This proactive approach is crucial in fostering a more supportive and inclusive school environment.
The bingo event represents a tangible example of student activism and a commitment to making a positive impact on their community. It’s a reminder that even small-scale initiatives can have a significant effect on the lives of others. The success of the event will depend on the support of the local community, and Interact 53 is hoping for a strong turnout on March 29th.
The association’s previous fundraising efforts, as mentioned by Raysz, demonstrate a consistent dedication to supporting both local and international causes. This year’s focus on mental health underscores the importance of addressing the needs of students within their own community, even as also maintaining a broader commitment to global solidarity.
Tickets for the bingo event are available for €4 per card and can be purchased at the lycée d’Avesnières on the day of the event. The event is scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at the school located at 51 rue d’Avesnières, Laval.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about a fundraising event and a mental health awareness initiative. It is not intended to provide medical advice. If you or someone you understand is struggling with mental health issues, please reach out to a qualified healthcare professional or a crisis hotline.
Looking ahead, Interact 53 plans to assess the impact of the graphic novel distribution on student wellbeing. They will gather feedback from students and teachers to determine the effectiveness of the initiative and identify areas for improvement. The association is also exploring potential partnerships with local mental health organizations to expand their reach and provide additional support to students in need.
What are your thoughts on student-led initiatives to promote mental health awareness? Share your comments below and help spread the word about this important project.
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