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
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
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
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