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To begin with, we should first know what exactly is mental illness. It is described as a mental condition that can affect our thinking, emotions and behaviours. Having some kind of mental health problem during our lifetime is very common and can happen to anyone.

Students, in particular, are quite vulnerable to various kinds of mental illnesses that leave them feeling devastated and terrified while making them retreat rather than seeking help. Counselling skills for teachers thus becomes an absolute necessity to guide and help learners in achieving their academic and life goals and live their best lives.

What are the cautionary signs to watch out for?

• Mood changes
• Unusual drop in functioning
• Struggling with concentration, memory, logical thought and speech
• Heightened sensitivity to sights, sounds, smells or touch
• Not willing to initiate or participate in any activity
• Feeling disconnected
• Nervousness
• Odd, uncharacteristic, peculiar behaviour

What is the role of a teacher in developing mental health?

First and foremost, it is important to learn about the developing symptoms or early warning signs as stated above and taking action accordingly can help. Early intervention can help reduce the severity of an illness and may even delay or prevent a major mental illness altogether. As an educator, you should also be aware of the possible situations that may contribute to poor mental health in young people. This may range from a lot of factors, such as exam pressure, social media issues, LGBTQ issues etc.

Talking or discussion helps. If you notice any slightest sign or any abnormal pattern in a learner’s behaviour, talk to the child in person. A relationship of trust with the students helps them to open up and share what’s bothering them. Teachers can also:

• Communicate with parents and make them aware of the fact
• Implement innovative teaching strategies for learners with mental illnesses
• Encourage Social Time
• Make mental health a focus in your class by discussing it
• Address mental health awareness in assemblies
• Celebrate world mental health day to let students know they’re not alone

Promoting mental health in schools should be a priority. Mental health issues can affect anyone. So, it’s important we get our teachers trained with the right startegies and help our students as much as possible.