5th September 2024
How to spot changes in students’ mental health
On the 19th September, it is Youth Mental Health Day and the importance of mental well-being will be highlighted throughout the UK. Youth Mental Health Day encourages the discussion of mental health amongst young people and this year the theme is #ControlYourStroll. If you want to learn more about this year’s theme, check out the official website for Youth Mental Health Day. Although it is important that we have awareness days, it is vital that we talk about these issues all year round and how to cope with them so that we can prevent as many people as possible from suffering.
Having good mental health and well-being is essential for everyone, but it’s crucial for students as school can be difficult for a number of reasons for many pupils. Being able to notice changes in your student’s mental health is so important so here are some notable changes that can be spotted in a students morale:
Change in personality
If one of your students starts acting like a completely different person, it may suggest poor mental health. Lack of interest, nervousness and mood swings are common signs of this. Anything uncharacteristic of the individual like being anxious, moody or angry could mean there has been a change in their mental well-being.
Change in behaviour
If a student who is usually punctual and hands in work to a good standard starts to arrive late and give in work below expectation, they could be struggling mentally. A lack of effort and change in behaviour can show that their mental health has been affected. If they suddenly struggle to concentrate, find it difficult to do tasks they could once do easily and keep forgetting information that they should be retaining, it is likely that they are suffering from mental health issues.
Social isolation
If you notice that one of your students is socially isolating or withdrawing from their friendship groups, this could be a change in their mental health. If they appear disconnected in classes and social time or they’re spending lots of time alone, they may be struggling.
Appearance changes
It’s really important to keep an eye on changes to the appearance of your students. If a student has changed the type of clothes they are wearing (for example covering skin on their arms or wearing a hoodie on a sunny day), this could be an indication of self-harm or harm from another individual. Other examples may include changes in weight or appetite, as well as students falling asleep in class (tiredness) or being unable to concentrate.
Understanding the reasons
Why is the student feeling this way?
Try to understand why the individual is feeling this way or acting the way they are, what the reasons for their emotions and actions are and see if you can help them. Asking them can be a way forward, but if they don’t want to speak about their issues, don’t force them. No matter what, offer your support.
How can I help the student feel better?
Allow the student time and space if necessary. Maybe allow them to sit with a friend or ask if there’s someone they’d prefer to be paired with. Offer them counselling or extra support to help them relieve stress and get back to feeling like themselves again.
What if they continue to feel down?
Inform a higher and more educated colleague in emotional well-being and mental health support to get them the help they need. Try to identify if the issues are because of home life or because of a relative and then notify a member of their family if possible.
These changes can be difficult to deal with and even harder to cope with, remember to continue to offer your support and help to your students as long as they need it. If you are suffering from mental health issues of your own, get support and seek help. Here are some useful references:
Mental Health Foundation assistance
Samaritans 24/7 support – 116 123
Fancy upskilling in mental health for educators? When you work with us, you get free access to Creative Educations CPD portal, which includes topics such as:
10 Ideas to make School Feel Safe for Children Struggling to Attend
Mental Health: Practical Strategies for Supporting a Colleague Who is Struggling
Interested in these courses and think they will benefit you? Register your interest with us today!
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