Mental Health 101: An inside look into mental health discussions at school

A Comprehensive Guide to Improving Student Well-being

Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and it is essential to discuss it openly, especially in educational settings. The Mental Health Association of East Tennessee (MHAT) has been at the forefront of this initiative, providing mental health classes to around 30,000 students every year. This effort is not just about education; it's about fostering a supportive environment where students can thrive.

The Importance of Mental Health in Schools

Mental health issues are on the rise among young teens and adolescents. According to recent statistics, there has been a significant increase in anxiety (93.6%), depression (83.9%), self-harm (333.93%), and substance abuse (62.7%) among children aged 13-19. These conditions often begin as coping mechanisms and can snowball into more severe issues if left unaddressed. Schools play a pivotal role in recognizing and addressing these problems early on.

Normalizing Emotions in Educational Settings

One of the most effective ways to support student mental health is to normalize emotions both in and outside of school. By teaching students to recognize and regulate their emotions, schools can help them process difficult situations in a healthy way. This approach encourages open communication and reduces the stigma associated with mental health issues.

Common Mental Health Issues in Schools

Anxiety

Anxiety is a persistent worry that affects a student's ability to function. Common symptoms include a racing heartbeat, sweaty palms, shortness of breath, and an upset stomach. While temporary stressors like an upcoming test can be motivating, persistent anxiety requires attention and support. Medication can be beneficial for some students struggling with long-term anxiety.

Depression

Depression is a low mood that lasts for several days or more. Symptoms include fatigue, over or undereating, lack of interest in daily activities, isolation, and self-harm behaviors. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial, as depression can be difficult to articulate and often requires validation and compassion.

Self-Harm

Self-harm is a method of communication that alerts educators to underlying issues. It can manifest as scars, fresh wounds, or students wearing long clothing year-round. School nurses and health staff must be vigilant in identifying these warning signs and providing support. It is essential to differentiate between self-harm as a coping mechanism and suicidal thoughts, which necessitate immediate intervention.

The Role of School Nurses and Health Staff

School nurses and health staff are crucial in normalizing emotions and supporting students with mental health issues. Their role extends beyond medical care; they must also be educators, listeners, and validators. By creating a safe and supportive environment, they can help students manage their emotions and seek help when needed.

• Education: School nurses can educate students about mental health, its common disorders, and warning signs. This knowledge empowers students to recognize when they or their peers are struggling.
• Early Intervention: Early intervention is key in addressing mental health issues. School nurses can implement early intervention plans to prevent substance misuse and other harmful behaviors.
• Support Network: Building a strong support network is vital. Teachers, parents, and peers can all contribute to creating an environment where students feel comfortable discussing their feelings and seeking help.

The Mental Health Continuum

Mental health experiences can vary along a continuum from thriving to distressed. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Thriving: Students who are thriving feel good, balanced, and capable of coping with challenges. They maintain a healthy balance in their lives, which includes work, school, or relationships.
• Managing: Students who are managing have to do some work to keep things balanced. They cope in healthy ways and meet the demands of their daily lives. While they might face challenges, they are generally making it work.
• Struggling: Emotional struggles impact students' ability to perform in school or maintain relationships. Acknowledging these struggles is crucial; finding ways to take care of oneself and reaching out for help are essential steps.
• Distress: Mental health challenges significantly interfere with a student's quality of life. This can include untreated conditions like depression, which necessitate immediate attention and support.

Coping Strategies and Self-Care

Coping strategies and self-care routines play a significant role in maintaining mental health. Healthy coping strategies include:

• Mindfulness: Mindfulness helps students be present in the moment, find calm, and accept challenging thoughts and feelings. Practices like meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, and journaling can be beneficial.
• Support Network: Cultivating a strong support network helps students feel less overwhelmed. Talking about feelings openly can make them less daunting, and supporting friends who are struggling can also boost mental health.
• Mental Health Care: Mental health professionals like counselors and psychologists are trained to help with emotional challenges, including relationship issues, work stress, loss, mental health conditions, and substance misuse.

Conclusion

Mental health discussions at school are crucial for fostering a supportive environment where students can thrive. The Mental Health Association of East Tennessee’s initiative is a testament to the importance of these discussions. By normalizing emotions, educating students about common mental health issues, and providing a strong support network, schools can help mitigate the rising trend of mental health problems among adolescents.

References:

• https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-health-101
• https://www.mentalhealthishealth.us/mental-health-101/
• https://magnushealth.com/mental-health-101-common-disorders-and-warning-signs/