EMPOWERING MINDS, ELEVATING ACHIEVEMENT: THE CRUCIAL ROLE OF SCHOOLS IN PROMOTING STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING.

 EMPOWERING MINDS, ELEVATING ACHIEVEMENT: THE CRUCIAL ROLE OF SCHOOLS IN PROMOTING STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING.

                                                                                                      SWATHI. M

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Abstract

In today’s fast-paced world, student mental health and wellbeing have emerged as critical concerns. This article delves into the pivotal role that schools play in fostering a supportive environment conducive to mental wellness and academic success. By implementing comprehensive programs that prioritize mental health education, destigmatize seeking help, and provide accessible resources, schools can empower students to thrive emotionally and academically. The article discusses the importance of collaboration among educators, parents, and mental health professionals to create holistic support systems for students.      

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Introduction

The state of being happy and healthy is called well-being. It comprises both physical and mental well-being, emotional and physical safety, as well as a sense of accomplishment and success, as well as a sense of purpose and belonging. It has an impact on our feelings, thoughts, and behaviours. It also influences how we respond to stress, interact with others, and make wise decisions. From childhood and youth to maturity, mental health is crucial at every stage of life. A child’s emotional, behavioural, and social wellbeing must all fall under the purview of mental health. The most crucial component of mental health is “adaptability,” or the capacity to deal with obstacles in day-to-day living.  The mental health of students is a crucial factor. Students are unique people with a variety of cultural and familial backgrounds. Therefore, no student will inherit the same mental health status from their family. This is why educational institutions are so important in fostering an environment that supports students’ positive mental health.

Maintaining good mental health is crucial for every individual, and for students, it becomes even more imperative. The demanding academic environment, coupled with the challenges of personal growth and social interactions, underscores the need to prioritize mental well-being. From academic performance to overall quality of life, appropriate nurturing of mental health can positively impact various aspects of a student’s journey. Students who receive social-emotional and mental health will have a higher chance of more academic achievements.

                   

There are several reasons for students suffer from poor mental health. They are; Bullying, Peer pressure, Family issues, Toxic relationships, Lack of sleep, Poor diet, Lack of exercise. In most cases students are usually overburdened with academics and assignments. The amount of stress this causes will definitely have a negative impact on their mental health. On the other hand, some students tend to be very competitive and sometimes want to outshine everyone else. Thus, they would feel pressured to get good grades even at the expense of their friends or not doing the assignment themselves. Such students often develop depression due to increased stress levels. Lastly, it is normal for students to experience feelings of worthlessness once they fail an exam or lose a competition. This can also lead them to depression as most teenagers may go through this phase at one time or another during their life in school.

Students experiencing poor mental health may be dealing with depression, stress, anxiety, addictive conditions, or aggressive behaviour. Students may be distracted or uninterested, affecting their ability to learn material presented in the classroom. Low concentration, Low achievement, Less engagement, Stunted progress, Less social growth, Low enthusiasm are different symptoms showed by the students who suffer from poor mental health.

Stronger mental health for students means they can learn better and be more likely to realize the full potential of their abilities. Students’ mental health in school is a crucial part of the education system. Educational institutions must encourage students to make healthy lifestyle choices and recognise the effects of those decisions on their health and well-being and be a resource to help them grow and develop holistically. Schools help promote the mental health and well-being of students through education, prevention, and early intervention efforts. Schools can establish safe and supportive environments such as, 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.

In order to foster a sense of belonging among students, educational institutions must emphasise the development of an inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their socio-economic or cultural background or gender . When educational institutions have a safe and joyful atmosphere, the students’ academic results improve, as do behavioural and mental health issues. In a majority of cases, mental health issues begin in the teens. So instead of sitting back and waiting for students to approach one for help, educators must get out there and talk to them in a face-to-face classroom setting. A school with a positive culture creates an environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Teachers who feel supported by their colleagues and administration are more likely to be engaged in their work and create positive relationships with their students. Finally, students who feel connected to their school and classmates are more likely to be engaged in learning and thrive academically.

There are many ways to improve student’s mental health such as ,give students the confidence to speak up – without negative repercussions, they may be more willing to share what is going on in their lives. Promote positive self-esteem – remind them of their unique qualities and encourage them to like themselves. Encourage students to practice mindfulness – having them focus on mindful activities will help with point number two. Teach the importance of good nutrition – it’s not just about losing weight or training for a race. Good food helps maintain good health, mental and physical health! Encourage students to exercise daily – many people have seen an improvement in their moods following regular exercise sessions. Teach students how to set realistic goals – this will give them confidence that they can do anything they want with hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

 

Conclusion

Good mental health is essential for overall well-being, and it can contribute to a student’s ability to find success in the world. It can help students to develop and maintain strong relationships, deal with life’s challenges and stressors in their daily lives. Mental health among school students is a growing concern.. There are a number of things that schools can do to support the mental health and wellbeing of their students. It is important that parents and teachers work together. Together they can help students have positive experiences at school and develop the skills they need to succeed in school and life.

 

Reference

Green, J. G., McLaughlin, K. A., Alegría, M., Costello, E. J., Gruber, M. J., Hoagwood, K., … & Kessler, R. C. (2013). School mental health resources and adolescent mental health service use. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 52(5), 501-510.

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Patel, V., Saxena, S., Lund, C., Thornicroft, G., Baingana, F., Bolton, P., … & Tomlinson, M. (2018). The Lancet Commission on global mental health and sustainable development. The Lancet, 392(10157), 1553-1598.  https://www.thelancet.com/commissions/global-mental-health

 

Splett, J. W., Fowler, J., Weist, M., McDaniel, H., & Dvorsky, M. R. (2013). Community schools: Promoting mental health services for children and adolescents. Children & Schools, 35(2), 99-102. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1093/cs/cdt006

 

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