SCHOOL VS MENTAL HEALTH
By: Emery Joyce
School VS Mental Health
Mental health and school often clash especially with students who are in middle and high school. A lot of students suffer from anxiety, depression, substance abuse, self- harm etc. It is very important, as a student, to check in with your mental health from time to time. School shouldn’t be a place where students feel anxious all the time.
A lot of these mental health problems stem from the constant stress of school, it can become too much for students. Up to one and five students in the U.S. show signs or symptoms of mental health issues. These mental health issues can cause low achievement and disruptive behavior which can be detrimental to a student’s academic career. Low performance in school could eventually lead to the student dropping out. However, nearly 80% of students who need mental health services won't get them.
Students should not be feeling anxious and depressed in a school setting. As a student, you should be checking in with your mental health from time to time. Ask yourself these questions: What emotions have I been feeling lately? Why have I been feeling this way? How can I make myself feel better? Not only is it important to check in with your mental health but, it is also important to seek help from someone.
Seeking help can be a hard thing for some students to do but it is very important. Talk to a trusted adult. This person could be a parent, an aunt, an uncle, a school counselor, etc. Talk to them about how you’ve been feeling lately. Talking to a school counselor can especially help because their job is to help students emotionally and physically. If you are afraid to ask for help, don’t be. Asking for help does not make you weak or cowardly, it is simply a way to make you feel better mentally.
Mental health should not be compromised because of school but, it often is. No one should have to feel anxious or depressed in a school setting. If you are a student who feels this way, check in with your mental health and talk to a trusted adult. Mental health is extremely important and struggling with your mental health is not ideal. Remember, it is OK to seek help.