Mental Health Education In Schools

Ffion Collins

What are the most common mental health issues in schools?

One in five children and adolescents experience a mental health problem during their school years. These are typically related to:

● Stress

● Anxiety

● Bullying

● Family Issues

● Depression

● Learning Disability

How can schools deal with mental health issues?

● Increase students' mental health literacy

● Promoting mindfulness

● Promoting social, emotional, and behavioural learning

● Enhancing connectedness among staff and students

● Employing specialized councillors

● Have a referral system in place for students who need help and are struggling

● Incorporate deep breathing exercises and other self-care practices throughout the day

● Develop programs to promote healthy coping skills

● Develop early intervention services

● Provide family and student resources and supports

● Make services and treatment programs accessible

● Organize skill groups to help students deal with anxiety, grief, anger, and other emotions

Why deal with mental health in schools?

● Schools can establish safe and supportive environments.

● Schools can connect students to caring adults and encourage positive peer relationships.

● Schools can give students mental health support and link them and their families to community behavioural and mental health services.

● Schools that promote student mental health and well-being can improve classroom behaviour, school engagement, and peer relationships. These factors are connected to academic success

Benefits of teaching this in schools:

● Reducing the stigma

● Identifying issues early

● Promote self-care and physical well-being

● Encourage students to talk about their feelings

● Build self-esteem and self-confidence

● Foster a school culture of empathy and acceptance

● Reduce bullying and school violence

What challenges do schools face when educating about mental health?

● Lack of resources and trained professionals

● Time constraints and curriculum overload

● Sensitive nature of topics

● Potential for misinformation or inadequate training

● Parental concerns and cultural differences

References:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2023). Promoting Mental Health and Well-being in Schools. [online] www.cdc.gov. Retrieved September 20, 2024, from

https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/mental-health-action-guide/index.html.

2. National Association of School Psychologists (2021). Comprehensive School-Based Mental and Behavioral Health Services and School Psychologists. [online] National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). Retrieved September 20, 2024, from

https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/mental-and-behavioral-health/additional-resources/comprehensive-school-based-mental-and-behavioral-health-services-and-school-psychologists#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20U.S.%20Department.

3. Rachel’s Challenge. (2023). Benefits of Teaching Mental Health in Schools. [online] Retrieved September 20, 2024, from https://rachelschallenge.org/blog/benefits-of-teaching-mental-health-in-school/.

4. www.ablison.com. (2023). Pros and Cons of Teaching Mental Health in Schools 2023 - Ablison. [online] Retrieved September 20, 2024, from

https://www.ablison.com/pros-and-cons-of-teaching-mental-health-in-schools/.