Mentally healthy students are more likely to attend class and engage with the material. The creation of a healthy environment in schools benefits both children and teachers. Although it may seem difficult, there are steps that can be taken to make it easier.
Knowing the signs
Teachers can learn to recognize the signs of mental health problems at school. Although students may try to hide when they have problems, there are common symptoms and risk factors.
One of the most common forms of mental health problems is having a low or depressed mood. Students who struggle with this problem may appear more withdrawn or quiet. They may also present changes in their relationships with peers or in their academic performance.
Bullying, lack of adjustment to peers, and a difficult family life are risk factors for developing mental health problems. It is important for teachers to be aware of the interpersonal dynamics in their classrooms. It is also important for teachers to be aware of students who have uninvolved parents.
Helping out
It is important to create a school environment that is open to discussions about mental health. This encourages students to speak up when they have problems.
Many schools have their own mental health services. It is beneficial to invest in them. Counselors can guide students on a range of issues and can refer them to a specialist for additional help.
In the classroom, teachers can be trained to recognize mental health problems. They can also educate their students about this topic and promote dialogue about mental health and feelings. Classroom activities, such as journaling, meditating, or teaching classroom skills, can also be helpful to students.
UNIB offers courses on the study of education, such as the Master in Education with a specialty in Organization and Management of Educational Centers and the Master in Education with a specialization in Higher Education.
Sources:
Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing in Schools
Thriving: Steps towards a mentally healthy school
Transforming children and young people’s mental health provision
