A 2018 survey from the Ministry of Health revealed that most of our tamariki aged 3 to 14 years are developing well without major social, emotional and behavioural problems. Saying that, in 2021/2022, nearly one in four (23.6%) of young people ages 15 to 24 years old reported experiencing high or very high levels of psychological distress, which was up 11% from 2020.
According to the Mental Health Foundation’s website, schools are currently dealing with an increase in mental health issues. In 2021, 82% of teachers agreed or strongly agreed that mental health issues are occurring more often within their students than 2 to 3 years ago.
Schools play a vital role in students’ lives, and their well-being extends beyond academic performance. Educators, including principals and teachers, are often on the front lines of identifying and supporting students struggling with mental health challenges. Here is how educators can make a positive impact and help change a struggling kid’s mindset.
Building Awareness and Understanding
Educate Yourself
Knowledge is power. Familiarise yourself with common mental health conditions within adolescents, such as anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. Learn about the warning signs, which can manifest as changes in behaviour, mood, academic performance, or participation in class discussions. Understanding these conditions equips you to identify potential issues and approach students with empathy.
Open Communication
Mental health conversations should not be shrouded in secrecy—Normalise discussions about mental well-being in the classroom. Dedicate time to classroom activities that encourage students to reflect on their emotions and identify healthy coping mechanisms. Discuss the importance of seeking help for mental health concerns, just as they would for a physical injury or illness. Invite guest speakers like school counsellors or mental health professionals to address the students and answer questions in a safe space.
Fostering a Safe and Inclusive Environment
Positive Climate
A classroom environment built on respect, empathy, and kindness is the foundation for student well-being. Celebrate diversity and encourage students to support each other. Implement cooperative learning activities that foster teamwork and build social connections.
Active Listening
Be approachable and show genuine interest in your students’ well-being. Make eye contact, offer a listening ear, and avoid judgement. Sometimes, simply being someone students feel comfortable talking to can make a world of difference.
Celebrate Strengths
Focus on students’ strengths and celebrate their accomplishments, both big and small. Positive reinforcement can boost self-esteem and create a sense of belonging.
Early Intervention and Support
Observe and Identify
Be aware of changes in behaviour, mood or academic performance that might indicate a student is struggling. This could include social withdrawal, difficulty concentrating, excessive absences, changes in sleep or eating patterns, or outbursts of anger or sadness.
Know Your Resources
Familiarise yourself with the school counsellor, social worker, or mental health professionals available on the school grounds. Learn about the referral process and the support services they provide, as well as the resources available.
Connect and Refer
Encourage students to seek help from the school counsellor or suggest trusted resources outside of school, such as mental health hotlines or support groups. Partner with parents/guardians to ensure students get the support they need. Remember, you are not expected to be a mental health professional, but you can play a crucial role in connecting with the appropriate resources.
Promoting Overall Wellness
Social-emotional learning
Integrate social-emotion learning activities into the curriculum. Teach students coping mechanisms, stress management skills, and healthy communication techniques. These skills empower students to navigate challenges, build resilience, and develop positive relationships.
Mindfulness Practices
Introduce simple mindfulness exercises like breathing techniques or meditation to help students manage stress and anxiety. Encourage them to focus on the present moment and identify their emotions healthily/
Healthy Habits
Promote healthy sleep patterns, a balanced diet, and regular physical activity, all of which are crucial for mental well-being. Encourage students to participate in physical education classes, join school sports teams, or find extracurricular activities they enjoy.
Role Modeling
Educators play a significant role in setting the tone for the school environment. By demonstrating self-care practices like taking breaks, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, you can model positive behaviours for your students.
Educators and teachers are not expected to solve students’ mental health problems alone. But, creating a supportive environment, building trust, and knowing when and where to refer students can play a critical role in helping them navigate challenges, prioritise their mental health, and ultimately reach their full potential.
