Everand Logo

Welcome to Everand!

  • Discover millions of ebooks, audiobooks, and so much more with a free trial

    Only €10,99/month after trial. Cancel anytime.

    The Urgency Of Mental Health In Education
    The Urgency Of Mental Health In Education
    The Urgency Of Mental Health In Education
    Ebook171 pages1 hour

    The Urgency Of Mental Health In Education

    By Percy Chris Kpodo

    ()

    Read preview

    About this ebook

    In a world where mental health challenges among students and staff are increasingly prevalent, Urgency of Mental Health in Education provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and addressing these critical issues within the educational system. This book offers actionable strategies, policy recommendations, and innovative approaches to integrate mental health support into schools and universities. By fostering a holistic and collaborative approach, this essential resource aims to create supportive learning environments where all individuals can thrive academically and personally. Ideal for educators, policymakers, parents, and mental health professionals, this book draws on international perspectives and evidence-based practices to promote student wellbeing and academic success.

     

    In this book, you will discover:

    -Understanding Mental Health in Education 

    -Identifying Mental Health Issues in Students 

    -Mental Health and Academic Performance 

    -Creating a Supportive School Environment 

    -Implementing School-Based Mental Health Programs 

    -Crisis Management and Intervention 

    -Leveraging Technology for Mental Health Support 

    -Policy and Advocacy for Mental Health in Education

     

    Get Your Copy

    LanguageEnglish
    Publisherpercy kpodo
    Release dateJul 23, 2024
    ISBN9798227908292
    The Urgency Of Mental Health In Education

    Related to The Urgency Of Mental Health In Education

    Related ebooks

    Psychology For You

    View More
    View More

    Related podcast episodes

    Related articles

    • Article

      Learning The Songs Of Freedom

      May 23, 2022

      In an ideal world, learning should be a fun, curious and creative process. Unfortunately, the school curriculum focuses almost exclusively on cognitive development. In the process, the lived realities of learners and their social-emotional needs are

      3 min read

    • Article

      Navigating Mental Health Support Online: A Guide For College Students And Parents

      Nov 15, 2023

      College is a big transition for young adults. Students are navigating a phase where they take charge of their academic responsibilities, social networks and, for many, their personal well-being. While today’s students have the advantage of being born

      2 min read

    • Article

      Mental Health: Is That A Job For Schools?

      Jun 29, 2022

      Should mental health concerns be handled by schools?  Numerous statistics – and students themselves – point to the significant struggles many young people in the United States are experiencing. In an effort to help, federal and state governments are

      5 min read

    • Article

      Closing The Gap

      Feb 27, 2024

      The kids are not alright—but they will be. According to national data, the impacts of the pandemic on early education and childhood development are becoming evident: In a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 91 percent of survey r

      2 min read

    • Article

      Mentally Healthy Workplaces

      Mar 2, 2023

      Mentally Healthy Workplaces
      4 min read

    • Article

      Fresh Start

      Dec 1, 2023

      Fresh Start
      8 min read

    • Article

      Supporting Students: What’s Next For Mental Health

      Jun 29, 2022

      Toyin Anderson is a mom looking for solutions to what she sees as a crisis of youth crying out for help with their mental health.  “Our kids are still struggling. From the pandemic, the lack of being able to socialize, from losses of family members d

      3 min read

    • Article

      Calm In The Storm

      Mar 1, 2022

      Calm In The Storm
      2 min read

    • Article

      Opinion: Medical Education Needs To Stop Burning Out Students — Now

      Aug 29, 2019

      Medical students must learn to take care of themselves before they will ever excel at caring for others.

      4 min read

    • Article

      A Different Approach

      Apr 12, 2022

      Special education has come a long way since it was first recorded in Europe in the 18th century when special schools were established to teach visually impaired students. Today, it encompasses a great range of programmes, methodologies, tools and ser

      5 min read

    • Article

      ‘Somebody Cares’: How Schools Are Helping With Student Well-being

      Mar 24, 2021

      As educators in the United States consider student mental health, what are they finding works best to help young people persevere?

      7 min read

    • Article

      Hold That Thought

      Feb 5, 2024

      Hold That Thought
      2 min read

    Related categories

    Reviews for The Urgency Of Mental Health In Education

    0 ratings

    0 ratings0 reviews

    What did you think?

    Tap to rate

    Review must be at least 10 words

      Book preview

      The Urgency Of Mental Health In Education - Percy Chris Kpodo

      Introduction

      The Urgency of Mental Health in Education

      In recent years, the issue of mental health has gained significant attention, particularly within the educational sector. The COVID-19 pandemic has further magnified the mental health crisis, exposing vulnerabilities in how schools and universities support the psychological wellbeing of their students and staff. The closure of schools, the shift to online learning, and the uncertainty about the future have collectively contributed to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and stress among students and educators alike (Golberstein, Wen, & Miller, 2020). This book, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Education, seeks to address these urgent concerns by providing a comprehensive guide for educators, administrators, parents, and policymakers to foster a supportive environment conducive to mental health and wellbeing.

      Mental health issues among students are not a new phenomenon, but their prevalence and impact have surged dramatically. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in six children and adolescents aged 10-19 years old suffers from a mental disorder, and half of all mental illnesses begin by the age of 14 (WHO, 2021). These statistics underscore the critical need for early identification and intervention in the educational setting. Schools are in a unique position to play a pivotal role in promoting mental health, yet many are ill-equipped to do so effectively.

      The pandemic has exacerbated existing mental health issues and created new challenges. Research by Golberstein, Wen, and Miller (2020) indicates a significant rise in anxiety and depression symptoms among students due to the pandemic. The disruption of routines, social isolation, and the shift to remote learning have all contributed to this increase. The stress is not limited to students; educators have also faced unprecedented pressures. Balancing remote teaching, dealing with technological challenges, and managing their own health concerns have left many teachers feeling overwhelmed and burnt out (Kim & Asbury, 2020).

      Schools have always been more than just places of academic learning; they are also crucial social environments where children develop emotionally and socially. By integrating mental health support into the fabric of the school system, we can create a nurturing environment that helps students thrive. This involves not just recognizing and addressing mental health issues, but also fostering resilience and emotional intelligence.

      Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how individuals think, feel, and act, influencing their ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. In the educational context, mental health is closely linked to academic performance, attendance, and overall school climate (Kessler et al., 2005). Poor mental health can lead to academic difficulties, absenteeism, and behavioural problems, creating a cycle that can be difficult to break.

      Early identification of mental health issues is crucial. Educators, who interact with students on a daily basis, are often the first to notice changes in behaviour that may indicate a mental health problem. Training teachers to recognize the signs and symptoms of common mental health disorders can significantly impact students' lives. Tools such as the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) can aid in early detection (Goodman, 2001; Kroenke, Spitzer, & Williams, 2001).

      There is a well-documented link between mental health and academic performance. Students with untreated mental health issues often struggle academically. Anxiety, depression, and attention disorders can impair concentration, memory, and energy levels, making it difficult for students to perform well in school (Reupert et al., 2012). Conversely, a positive school environment that supports mental health can enhance academic outcomes. Implementing strategies to support mental health can lead to improved attendance, higher grades, and better overall school engagement.

      A supportive school environment is one where students feel safe, valued, and understood. This involves creating a culture that prioritizes mental health, implementing anti-bullying programs, and encouraging open conversations about mental health. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs are effective in teaching students how to manage their emotions, set goals, show empathy for others, and maintain positive relationships (Durlak et al., 2011). These skills are not only crucial for mental health but also for academic and life success.

      Parents and guardians play a critical role in supporting their children's mental health. Engaging parents in school mental health initiatives can create a stronger support system for students. Communication between parents and teachers is vital for identifying and addressing mental health issues early. Schools can offer resources and workshops to help parents understand mental health and how they can support their children at home (Fazel et al., 2014).

      Educators need ongoing professional development to effectively support student mental health. Training in mental health literacy can equip teachers with the knowledge and skills to identify and respond to mental health issues. Additionally, educators need strategies for self-care to manage their own stress and prevent burnout. Building resilience among educators is essential for creating a stable and supportive learning environment (Jennings & Greenberg, 2009).

      Successful school-based mental health programs require careful planning and collaboration with mental health professionals. These programs should be integrated into the school's existing framework and tailored to meet the specific needs of the student population. Funding and sustainability are also critical considerations. Ongoing evaluation is necessary to measure the program's impact and make necessary adjustments (Weist et al., 2014).

      Schools must be prepared to handle mental health crises. Developing a crisis response plan ensures that staff know how to respond effectively to emergencies. Post-crisis support is also important to help students and staff recover and build resilience. Collaborating with community resources can provide additional support and services during a crisis (Brock et al., 2009).

      Technology offers new opportunities for supporting mental health in education. Digital tools and apps can provide students with access to mental health resources and support. Telehealth services can offer remote counselling, making it easier for students to get help when needed. Social media can also play a role in raising awareness and reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues (Naslund, Aschbrenner, Marsch, & Bartels, 2016).

      Advocacy is crucial for driving systemic change. Educators, parents, and students can work together to advocate for policies that support mental health in schools. Understanding current policies and their impact can help identify areas for improvement. Learning from international perspectives can also provide valuable insights and strategies for advocacy (Kutcher & Wei, 2013).

      The mental health and wellbeing of students and educators are critical components of a successful education system. By understanding the challenges and implementing effective strategies, we can create a supportive environment that promotes mental health and academic success. This book provides a comprehensive guide to help schools, educators, parents, and policymakers address mental health issues and foster a culture of wellbeing. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of students and educators around the world.

      Chapter 1

      Understanding Mental Health in Education

      1.1 Definition and Importance of Mental Health

      Mental health, often misunderstood and stigmatized, is a critical aspect of overall well-being that encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how individuals think, feel, and act, as well as how they handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. In the educational context, mental health is particularly significant as it directly impacts students' learning, behaviour, and overall school experience.

      Definition of Mental Health

      Mental health can be defined as a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope

      Enjoying the preview?
      Page 1 of 1