Mental health in the classroom

Mental health is an important part of our daily lives. As an organisation in the education sector, we understand the challenges students face, and the vital significance of facilitating a supportive classroom.

Did you know that 1 in 5 children experience mental health issues? The statistic highlights the importance of a teacher’s role in fostering a supportive and understanding classroom environment. By prioritising mental health, we can make a difference in their lives, helping them thrive in their academic and personal life. 

Identifying the signs

It’s important for teachers and carers to be aware of the signs and behaviours of a student who might be struggling with their mental health so they can easily identify and support the student.

Common signs of mental health issues include:

• Struggling to make friends and or socialising
• Feeling like they don’t belong
• Presenting challenging and disruptive behaviour
• Low progress or disinterest in school
• Difficulties adjusting to new routines

Emotional wellbeing

Emotional well-being plays a key part in creating a healthy classroom environment; when students feel emotionally supported, they are more likely to engage, participate and excel academically.

Below are a few signs students may show if they struggle with their emotional well-being.

• Avoiding social interactions, isolating themselves or not participating in group activities
• A lack of interest in schoolwork or a sudden drop in academic grades
• Reluctant to speak in class
• Difficulty in making decisions

Stress

Stress can be caused by several factors, from academic pressure to the desire to succeed. Open communication, a routine, and teaching relaxation techniques are a few ways to help students learn to manage stress.

Stress can surface in many ways; below are a few examples of how it may exhibit.

• Children under stress may become more easily frustrated or angry
• Stress can lead to a change in their appetite
• it impairs a student’s ability to focus and concentrate during lessons, and eventually affects their academic performance
• A constant feeling of tiredness or a lack of energy

Anxiety

Anxiety is a relatively normal response to experiences throughout life. Studies have shown that symptoms of anxiety are usually prevalent in childhood years. Moving up to a new year or starting a new school can be daunting and anxious experience for children.

Anxiety can take forms in many ways; here are a few ways children may show signs of anxiety.

• Avoiding certain activities or being reluctant to participate in social interactions
• Complaints of stomach pain or headaches
• Excessive worrying and irritability

Depression

Unfortunately, depression isn’t uncommon among children. But going unrecognised and undiagnosed, it can worsen and affect more than just their academic life. It can often start as a sad or low mood and last for weeks, months and possibly even longer.

Below are a few signs that a student may be dealing with depression. 

• They may seem sad or irritable more than usual
• Not putting in as much effort as they usually would
• Showing a lack of enjoyment in day-to-day life and activities
• Withdrawing from friends and being less involved in activities

Mental health in and outside of the classroom is important; here are a few ways teachers can help improve a child’s mental health. 

• Creating a safe space for children to come and speak to you about how they might be feeling by encouraging open communication.
• Incorporating mental health into the curriculum like teaching about stress management, mindfulness and regulating emotions are a few things that can be worked into lessons that will help students throughout their time in education and beyond. 
• Encouraging healthy habits such as physical activity is a great way to improve mood and reduce anxiety.
• Introducing mindful minutes into the classroom by taking a few minutes every morning to do some deep breathing exercises.
• Providing children with creative outlets such as art, music and writing can help them express their emotions.

Supporting students’ emotional well-being is key to helping them thrive, and small steps can make a big difference. Whether it’s creating a safe space for students to talk, teaching mindfulness, or simply being there for someone who’s having a tough time, there’s always support available. Sometimes, just showing you care can be the best help of all. Together, we can create a more understanding and supportive school community.

Helpful mental health resources

• NSPCC provide resources on how you can identify and help children with their mental health.
• Childline support for people under 19 in the UK. Call: 0800 1111.
• Shout offer a 24hr confidential text line service where anyone in need of support can get in touch.