Managing Stress to Start the School Year
The beginning of the school year can be a very stressful time not only for the students and school staff, but for the entire family. The beginning of the school year is a transition from a free summer to a set schedule with deadlines, a week full of school — along with some extracurricular activities for some. Overall, the beginning of the school year can be a very hard adjustment period for many people. With a stressful time comes a time where mental health struggles can be very prominent.
Keep an Eye on Mental Health
It is important that as a parent or school staff member to keep your eyes and ears out for the students, staff and parents around you. Be aware of signs or symptoms of suffering mental health or behavioral issues that may be resulting from tough home situations or from being overall stressed. Most schools have resource counselors, mental health professionals and school based public mental health counselors that are there to assist in times of need.
Signs and Symptoms of Mental Health Issues
Being an advocate for the mental health and wellbeing of those around you is extremely important. Some students may become avoidant or withdrawn from daily school tasks including homework, extracurricular activities, eating with friends and other things.
Some other signs of someone struggling with their mental health to look out for are looking physically exhausted, having extreme emotional outbursts, inability to concentrate, loss in appetite and increased irritability. While mental health struggles can vary from person to person, a lot of people will show some symptoms that can easily be identified especially by those that are around them and observe them daily.
What Do You Do If You or Someone You Know Is Struggling?
If you notice someone that is showing symptoms of mental struggles, there are a few things you can do to help them and be an advocate for them.
- You can let them know your area is a safe space and be willing to hear them out and make them feel comfortable and confident in school, as they may not be receiving that at home. You should talk with a mental health professional in effort to get the student help.
- You could also speak with other school administrators that can further advocate for the student and their situation. Be sure the resources the school offers are utilized to the most of their ability.
- You can follow up with the student’s family if the student feels that it is a safe situation. If the student isn’t feeling safe at home, there may be another action plan to follow based on your schools’ guidelines.
Be an Advocate for Mental Health
Ultimately it is extremely important to be an advocate for those around you, both the children and the adults. Be a safe space for the people around you, and if they don’t seem comfortable make sure you help them find the resources they need. A mental health professional can then best determine the path for the student. Whether that be an acute care stay, an out-patient program, or and intensive out-patient program. Mental health is more important than ever, and it really is a group effort in a public setting.
Michiana Behavioral Health Center
Michiana Behavioral Health Center is a facility that specializes in dignified care to adults, children and teens, experiencing mental distress and emotional crisis. We pride ourselves on helping those that are struggling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse and more. Some of our many services include several programs for children and adolescent, as well as adults.
Located in Plymouth, IN, we take a holistic approach to treatment with personalized care. With our team of board-certified and child-trained physicians, psychiatrists, master-level clinicians and more. We feel confident that we assist in your healing and growth.
To receive a 24/7 confidential, no-cost health assessment, give us a call at 800-795-6252.
