Mental Health and Wellbeing: The Role Of School

In a rapidly evolving world of education, where the boundaries of our roles as educators have expanded far beyond the realm of imparting knowledge, the multifaceted nature of our responsibilities has come into sharper focus. We are no longer merely conduits of information; we have transformed into mentors, caregivers, and advocates for the mental well-being of our students. In this context, Hayley Walton’s emphasis on establishing a structured approach to nurturing mental health within our schools resonates more deeply than ever before.

The Evolving Role of Educators

As educators, our primary mission has always been to support our students academically. But as society evolves, so do the demands on the educational system. Beyond the realm of textbooks, we are now called upon to address the emotional and psychological well-being of our students. Although many of us have risen to this challenge, with teachers often going above and beyond for their pupils, a significant gap remains: specialized training in mental health.

Balancing Physical and Mental Wellbeing in the Curriculum

The UK has long recognized the importance of physical health, ensuring students remain active with a minimum of two hours of Physical Education every week. Yet, mental health, equally crucial, hasn’t always received the same emphasis.

The recent inclusion of Health Education and RSE (Relationship Sex Education) into the compulsory curriculum from September 2020 is a commendable move, ensuring students receive consistent lessons about their mental and emotional well-being.

Mental Wellbeing: Beyond Timetables

Scheduled lessons on mental health are vital, but true understanding goes beyond classroom walls. Every member of a school, from teachers to administrative staff, should be versed in basic strategies to assist students grappling with mental health issues.

Kerry Hill’s approach at Eyres Monsell Primary School offers an enlightening example. By allowing staff to occasionally exhibit a “grump on” attitude, students are shown that it’s okay to have off days, emphasizing that everyone, adults included, faces emotional challenges. And sometimes, the best way to cope is to dance it out!

Cultivating Daily Awareness and Open Conversations

Promoting mental health isn’t an occasional topic; it should be a daily conversation. Schools must foster an environment where students can openly discuss their emotions, which not only helps in immediate resolution but also aids in developing emotional intelligence.

The School Planner Company’s customised planners can be an instrumental tool in this journey. Filled with valuable information, strategies, and daily mindfulness exercises, these planners act as a daily touchpoint for students and educators alike.

The Mental Health and the role of Custom Planners

In the rapidly evolving world of 21st-century education, academic demands, extracurricular activities, and societal expectations can sometimes overshadow the essential element of well-being: mental health. However, as we integrate subjects like mathematics, literature, and science into our daily academic routine, it’s vital that mental health isn’t sidelined but prioritized. One practical tool that can make a significant difference is the use of custom planners. Here’s how:

1. Organization & Structure: With the increasing demands of school, students can often feel overwhelmed. A custom planner allows them to set clear academic goals, plan their tasks, and monitor their progress. When students can visually see their week or month laid out, it reduces anxiety and feelings of being overwhelmed, as they can tackle one task at a time.
2. Mindfulness & Reflection: Modern custom planners can incorporate sections dedicated to mindfulness exercises, gratitude journaling, or spaces for self-reflection. These segments can serve as daily reminders for students to pause, reflect on their emotions, and cultivate a positive mindset.
3. Personalization: Every student’s journey and challenges are unique. A custom planner can be tailored to meet individual needs, ensuring that students have the tools to manage their personal stressors. This might include tracking mood patterns, jotting down coping mechanisms, or setting aside time for self-care.
4. Setting Boundaries: In the age of digital distractions, planners can help students set clear boundaries between work and relaxation. By designating specific times for studies, breaks, and leisure, students can ensure they’re giving their minds the necessary downtime to rejuvenate.
5. Resource Accessibility: Custom planners can incorporate quick-reference sections for mental health resources. This might include helpline numbers, stress-reducing techniques, or counselor contact details. Having this information at their fingertips ensures that students can seek help when they need it.
6. Habit Tracking: Incorporating habit trackers can be especially beneficial for students looking to build and maintain positive habits, be it daily exercise, meditation, or adequate sleep. By visually tracking these habits, students can remain conscious of their routines and make necessary adjustments to support their well-being.
7. Achievement Celebrations: Positive reinforcement is crucial for motivation. Custom planners can provide sections where students can jot down their achievements, no matter how big or small. This not only boosts their self-esteem but also serves as a visual reminder of their capabilities during challenging times.

In Conclusion

The paradigm of education has witnessed a significant shift, reflecting the multifaceted roles of educators as they journey alongside their students. From being mere transmitters of knowledge, educators today are becoming anchors of support, providing not just academic guidance but also emotional and psychological sustenance. As society grapples with escalating mental health challenges, the onus falls on our educational institutions to weave mental health support seamlessly into their fabric.

The integration of Health Education and RSE, the dynamic methods adopted by schools like Eyres Monsell Primary School, and tools like custom planners, are all testament to the strides being made in this direction. While academics shape the intellect, mental well-being nurtures resilience, tenacity, and the holistic development of an individual. It’s time we recognize that the future of education isn’t just about achieving academic milestones, but about fostering a generation that is emotionally equipped to handle the complexities of the world. As educators, parents, and stakeholders in the education system, we must champion the cause of mental health, ensuring every student has the resources and support to flourish both in classrooms and in life.