Young adults (including students) are more prone to mental health problems than older people. About half of these problems are established by age 14. One in 5 children and youth have a diagnosable mental health disorder and 1 in 10 young adults have a mental health challenge whose severity can impair their performances at home, school or in the community (WHO).
These problems can be triggered both at home and in school. The good thing is that there are ways to prevent or tackle mental health problems in either the home or the school. Today, we shall be focusing on schools. Here are some suggestions regarding this.
Enlightening students and teachers about mental health
The first step in addressing the rampant cases of mental illness in schools is enlightenment. Many people, including students and teachers do not possess the right knowledge about mental health. This sometimes makes it difficult to identify and support students dealing with mental illnesses. There should be regular enlightenment programs in which an expert is invited to talk about mental health problems.
Identifying students who need help
Students should be encouraged to speak up whenever they need help concerning their mental health. Although some will still prefer to keep to themselves, when teachers and other students are well informed about the issue, such students can get the support they need. More so, efforts should be made to ensure that sufferers are not ostracised or harassed because of their problems.
Employing a counsellor
Students should have at least one counsellor who will be accessible to them anytime they are going through mental health distress. The enlightenment will ensure that they open up whenever they need help. This counsellor should preferably be someone who is experienced in child and adolescent health. This will bolster the help such students receive from home.
In conclusion, school authorities should incorporate mental health management into their activities. While physical health problems are managed by first aid boxes and school clinics, mental health issues should not be left out. They should be well managed for all-round health.
Learn about the effects of bullying on a child’s mental health
– Ridwan