Back To School—The Importance Of Mental Health
Why Mental Health Matters During the School Year
It’s that time of year again... back-to-school season. A new school year can bring excitement, but it can also bring different challenges as well. Going back to school brings changes in routines, expectations, and responsibilities. We often prepare by going back to school shopping for supplies like notebooks and pencils and attending back to school meetings. However, it is just as important to prioritize our mental wellbeing as we begin this transition. Prioritizing mental health during the back-to-school season can help students feel more supported, confident and prepared to handle any challenges that are ahead.
Common Mental Health Challenges During Back to School
During the summer many of us have more relaxed routines and less responsibilities. As we prepare to go back to school, routines often become more structured as we take on more responsibilities. It is normal to feel a little anxious about new teachers, classes, or maybe even new schools. Worries about how to manage your course load on top of everything else going on in your day-to-day life are a normal part of this transition. Between that and the added academic and social pressures and expectations, taking care of your mental health is crucial.
Research shows that there is a strong correlation between student mental health and academic achievement SAMHSA. Stress and anxiety can make focusing on schoolwork challenging. Your mental and emotional wellbeing can influence concentration, motivation, and learning. Research also shows that one in five children have a diagnosable mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder, yet they often do not receive the support they need SAMHSA. Therefore, it is important that mental health be a topic of conversation when discussing going back to school.
Ways Students Can Support Their Mental Health
Here are some healthy ways students can help support their own mental health while preparing for the back-to-school season.
Establish a consistent routine
Set realistic goals and break large assignments into smaller and more manageable tasks
Schedule time for hobbies and relaxation
Reach out to a parent, a teacher, or a counselor when you need help
How Parents, Teachers, and Schools Can Help
A supportive environment is crucial when maintaining emotional well-being. Parents should regularly check in with how their child is handling the new routine, not just if they are getting good grades. Changes in behavior such as withdrawing from activities they normally enjoy or changes in sleep or eating patterns could be signs that your child needs extra support. Teachers should encourage students to communicate when they are struggling and offer support. Schools can help create an environment where asking for help is normalized by incorporating mental health awareness education into curriculums.
You Are Not Your Grades
While engaging in school is important, grades are not everything. It is easy to fall into the trap of feeling defined by the letter on your paper or the percentage listed at the top of a test. However, it is important to remember that a successful school year isn’t only about getting good grades; it is about feeling supported enough to continue to grow.
Additional resources for support: https://www.nami.org/kids-teens-and-young-adults/school-resources/back-to-school-resources/