There is a lot more to mental health than merely the absence of psychological disorders. It combines aspects of your psychological, social and emotional welfare and has an impact on many aspects of our lives including how we perceive life, think, feel and behave. It also affects how we interact with others, how we handle life’s challenges, how we make life choices – which can make or mar you.
Everyone ,including adults, teenagers, and even adolescents, would profit from having a better understanding of mental health issues and their difficulties.
The basic question people ask is that should mental health be taught in school? The answer is Yes.
The reason why mental health should be taught in schools is not far-fetched. Teaching students about issues like anxiety and depression could not only benefit countless kids, but also save lives because there is no doubt that many school students experience mental health problems such as excessive anxiety and stress. The stigma associated with mental health still exists, and it is frequently left out of school curriculum
Read on to find out why it is so important to teach mental health awareness in schools as well as what happens :
1)Early Diagnosis and Discovery: Mental health education helps to discover early mental health illness in children and students
The CDC reports that over 4.4 million children from age 3- 17 have been diagnosed with anxiety and depression . It was also recorded by the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) that suicide is the second leading cause of death in teens, youths and children. It is shocking to know that less than half of those who have mental illnesses at that young age receive appropriate treatment. Incorporating Mental health awareness education in school helps to recognize and handle mental health concerns at an early stage . Students will be able to understand their own feelings and know when their fellow students need help by learning the signs of mental health disorders. Thus will allow for early care and the avoidance of more serious mental health issues.
2) Improved Academic Records: Mental health and academic success are interrelated. Neglecting a student’s mental health can impact their academic performance, focus and memory. By including lessons on mental health awareness in the school curriculum, schools can foster a welcoming atmosphere that puts their health first. Students who are encouraged become more prepared to handle obstacles and can perform better academically.
3) Reduced Stigma : It is important to lessen the stigma attached to mental health disorders . Stigma is a mark of shame, people with mental health conditions may feel stigmatized or feel humiliated and helpless with may result in suicide
With mental health education, the stigma with mental health disorders is reduced. Students can learn compassion and understand people who struggle with mental health illnesses by promoting open dialogue and disseminating truthful information. This fosters a better environment for students to interact and seek for assistance and support without prejudice or judgment.
4) Resilience and Coping Skills : Teaching students about mental health gives them the ability to cope and face life’s obstacles. Students can build tolerance and improve their emotional management skills by learning meditative practices, stress management strategies and self development routines. These abilities are crucial in assisting students in managing stress related illnesses related to their personal relationship, educational pressure and other pressures in their life.
5) Improved Lifestyle: The general well being of students can be greatly enhanced by teaching mental health in schools. Students are empowered to make good decisions about their health, reflect on themselves and value themselves more. These abilities and behavior can lead to a healthier and better lifestyle, by doing so , they can be beneficial to their family and community at large.
The mental health awareness of students can be dramatically impacted by educating them about mental health at a young age. Through raising awareness on mental health, it can help to end stigma and promote resilience. The importance of this cannot be overemphasized.
By fostering self assurance and self confidence, schools can support good mental health. Students must be taught the value of good mental health, how to spot indicators of poor Mental health and how to help if they experience any problems related to mental health .
Regardless of whether schools incorporate mental health into their curriculum, you must be able to educate your friends and family members about mental health. Regular check on your children is also important.