Back to School - What Educators Need to Know About their Student's Mental Health

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This year, returning to school is unquestionably different from previous years, resulting in an upsurge in anxiety and enthusiasm among parents, students, teachers, and administrators.

The necessity of maintaining mental wellness during this period is indisputable.

Students all around the globe are returning to school inperson, which can be an indication that life is getting back to “normal,” but what is “normal” any more? How are students going to react to a drastic learning envirment change..AGAIN?

Some of the students with whom we spoke do not believe that their school will remain open or that they are completely safe.

Other students experience greater social anxiety and worry about how they will get along with others in a full-time classroom setting.

Educators and parents need to be ready for many students to return to class with social-emotional needs that manifest as behavioral issues. This will adversely affect a student's academic development and achievements.

As educators and administrators, consider whether you have the materials, expertise, or experience necessary to address the social and developmental needs of your pupils. Teachers will be responsible for addressing these issues because schools severely lack financing for resources for behavior modification, professional development, and short staffing.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when starting the new school year:

1. Acknowledge their Feelings

Teachers should try to acknowledge the complex feelings that accompany reopening. Doing this can help lower stress for all. Give your students instructions on emotional management strategies like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness, and positive self-talk.

2. Address Student Mental Health

Students without a school routine for an extended period will need support as they navigate rebuilding a new normal. All staff should be encouraged to appreciate that the academic and behavioral challenges they observe might have their roots in trauma and need not be handled punitively. Instead, ask yourself questions like “What does this student need?” and “How can I best support that need?” or “What resources do I have available to me to best help this student?

3. Reach Out to an Academic Coach

For Educators, this will be like taking a sip of ice water on a hot summer's day.

Academic Coaches and teachers share a common goal, student success. Academic Coaches differ in the strategies used to help learners succeed in a more organized approach to learning, social interaction, and schoolwork. You are not alone!

Educators are always putting the needs of others first. Remember that your mental health is essential for you and the success of your students.

If you are considering becoming a certified Academic Coach or feel that a student in your classroom could greatly benifit from specialized assitance. Reach us at www.coachingkinetics.com.