All educators should be aware of the importance of mental health awareness. They are often the first line for students’ protection. Education professionals are well aware of the effects that students’ mental health can have on their learning and achievement. There is a lot that can be done to support them. With more than 23 years experience as a high school teacher, I am happy that mental health awareness has become an integral part of the school’s curriculum and function.
Looking at the Signs in My Students
My senior class saw a change in one student within a few years. Melina stopped doing her homework and didn’t attempt to complete her essays. Melina, who was meticulous about her appearance, would arrive at school dressed in the same clothes as she had worn previously. Melina was distant and withdrawing when I tried to talk to her. Melina was probably in trouble because I had mental health awareness training.
My school had social workers who were able to speak with Melina and assess her needs. Melina was suicidal and depressed, so they needed to immediately provide psychiatric treatment. Melina was admitted to hospital for a time but was able to return to school a few months later. She was able to graduate with her class thanks to medication and therapy.
Understanding the Impact
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five Americans has some type of mental disorder. Even though the average age at which people first notice signs of mental illness is 14 years old, most people don’t seek treatment until they reach adulthood. The fact that 60% of high school students with mental illnesses don’t graduate proves how serious this problem is.
More reading: Help Students Feel Relaxed in the Classroom
New York’s mental health professionals recognized the importance of earlier intervention to improve outcomes for these students. New York will become the first state to require all students to receive mental health education starting in July. New York’s School Mental Health program aims to promote healthy social and emotional development for students and to “break down barriers to learning” so that students, their families and school staff are able to benefit from other comprehensive support services and programs.
SMH supports academic growth and emotional well-being of students through the following:
- All grades receive comprehensive support and services
- Assessment of mental health needs using universal, targeted, and selective interventions
- Access to mental and behavioral health services and programs
- For the necessary support and services, leverage higher-level staff, such as those who work with the Department of Education
- Collaboration between the school, students’ families and their communities
Awareness Spreading Across the Nation
Teachers and administrators can help students become more aware of mental health education, even though it is not a required part of every school. The concept of self-care and responsibility for your own mental health and wellbeing are key elements to highlight, with emphasis on the fact mental health is an integral part and recovery from mental illness. Students and teachers should learn how to spot signs of mental illness and be able to manage them. Additionally, students and teachers should be taught how to recognize the connection between mental health and substance abuse.
Additional reading: Emotional and Social Learning
Teens spend most of their time at school so it makes sense that mental health education and awareness should be part of the curriculum. Students will receive the help they need if we provide them with information and encourage discussion.
