Sometimes, we feel misunderstood, stressed, or sad. Regardless of the emotion, these feelings matter more than you’d think. Today, we’re seeing children become more stressed than previous generations. We can help students improve their health and well-being by using more breaks and less homework. Here are more ways schools can improve mental health.
Implement Break Zones
We all need a break sometimes, but we can do it in a way that fosters mental health rather than forcing us to shut down and keep our emotions to ourselves. Schools can first set up break zones and check-ins with students.
When creating a break zone, try and plan small group trips to places outside of school, such as the park or a museum. Children can learn and have fun at the same time when they’re away from the classroom. Additionally, playgrounds and parks can help fight depression in children and teens.
Not only are small field trips excellent ways to break away from the classroom for a while, but so are weekly check-ins. You can implement a better check-in system by creating a board with manilla envelopes that list different moods.
For example, one manilla envelope may say, “I need support,” and a student may place a paperclip in there. You can then remove it, pull that student aside, and remind them that you’re there to listen to whatever is on their mind.
Conduct Basic Mental Health Training for Students and Teachers
When teachers and students come together, they begin to transform into more confident individuals who can communicate when they have a problem. Below, you can find different activities teachers should implement in their classrooms.
- A bulletin board to allow students to mark how they’re feeling.
- Checking for red flags in students’ behaviors.
- Setting up additional office hours.
Students play an even more significant role in viewing mental health in schools. Here’s how students can improve mental health in the classroom.
- Include everyone, and create a support system.
- Observe changes in behavior and report them to a teacher.
- Form a club supporting mental health.
Invite Parents To Train in Mental Health Awareness
We want the entire community to come together when there’s a big football game, but we need them even more when we need to improve mental health in students. Parents can help by forming support groups for students and staff that struggle with mental health.
These are a few ways schools can improve mental health in students and staff. By improving the mental health of others, we help bridge the gap between those suffering and the resources they need to get better.
To help improve mental health in the classroom, keep holding activities that help students take a break from class. Also, include the community to promote a positive atmosphere for those who need help with their mental health.
