FOSTER A MORE WELCOMING CLASS ENVIRONMENT

How has the pandemic further affected mental health for students and young adults – and what can be done to help them?

Facts about mental illness in students:

  • In 2021, more than a third (37%) of high school students reported they experienced poor mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, and 44% reported they persistently felt sad or hopeless during the past year.
  • More than half (55%) reported emotional abuse by a parent or other adult in the home.
  • 11% experienced physical abuse by a parent or other adult in the home.
  • More than a quarter (29%) reported a parent or other adult in their home lost a job.

Source: CDC.gov

four students talking while sitting on stairs outside of school

CREATE POSITIVE CHANGE & SUPPORT BACK TO SCHOOL MENTAL HEALTH

Attending school can be stressful. Read through these tips to help your students feel more welcomed and prepared for the school year ahead.

Prepare for mixed feelings.

As students return to school, some may have lacked privacy or experienced distractions.  they’re happy to be away from; been in unsafe conditions and school is a welcome change; thrived on their own, and may be nervous about coming back; gotten attached to being close to family and may experience separation anxiety; or felt free from bullying or trauma during the break. Bottom line? It’s important to be responsive to the individual needs of students.

Learn the warning signs of something more serious.

Be on the lookout for students who are increasingly more socially withdrawn, missing multiple days of school, falling behind academically, or expressing interest in harming themselves or others. (Get them attention immediately).

Normalize the conversation.

Ask students to share if they feel comfortable; encourage them to share both worries and hopes. Discuss strategies for coping and encourage school administrators to make resources visible and accessible.

Prioritize your mental health, too.

Make sure you are taking care of yourself so you can take care of students. Get regular exercise and practice relaxation methods like deep breathing and meditation.

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