As we celebrate World Mental Health Day today, the emphasis on mental well-being gets more crucial than ever. Strong mental health is essential not only for emotional well-being but also for the overall functioning of individuals, particularly students who face unprecedented pressures in today’s competitive environment.
Good mental wellness is critical for the overall emotional and physiological sense of self. It has recently gained significant momentum, and people are becoming aware of the severity of mental health issues as many more people, especially students, are being affected by it.
One of the major concerns is the mental health of young students. When they are young, they are exposed to an environment of continuous competition and rivalry. Educational institutions play a vital role in promoting mental health awareness amongst students for a healthier teaching environment. They can encourage open discussions about mental health and build a supportive academic atmosphere to help students develop resilience and seek treatment when needed. It is necessary to equip their students with the resources and tools required for them to succeed academically and take care of their mental health.
Mental health and stigma
Keeping mental wellness is an ongoing issue, with students being the most at risk. The stigma associated with it is associated with the hostile views and beliefs that society has about mental health, leading many to believe that mental health issues cannot and should not be discussed in public. This bias can lead to negative feelings such as guilt, shame and isolation. This prevents individuals and students from seeking the support they need. Students may suffer with their mental health due to their fear of being misinterpreted or criticised. Since students spend most of their time in their educational institutions, it should serve as a pivotal platform to change the narrative.
Be the first responder
Schools/colleges should be the first-responder role in promoting mental health awareness amongst the students. By creating a protective and safe space for students, the institutions can help build a secure atmosphere where young minds can speak with no fear.
- Mental Health Education: One must first know and understand the problem. Schools and universities should prioritise mental health education. It can be added as an elementary component in the syllabus. Combining topics on mental well-being into existing curricula across classes can normalise discussions around mental health and foster a culture of acceptance.
- Mental Health Programmes: Many mental health initiatives aim to raise awareness while assisting. Peer support groups, mental health courses, and counselling services are a few examples. Encourage students to ask for help by using these tools, which supports the idea that talking about mental health issues is a show of strength rather than a sign of weakness. These initiatives and programmes will help students develop a sense of belonging and will give them the courage to share their concerns.
- Creating a supportive environment: Institutions must first create positive environments that put mental health first, especially to fight this prevailing stigma around the same. This involves training teachers and staff to recognise the signs of mental health struggles and to respond empathetically. Students are more likely to feel comfortable talking about their difficulties with educated and engaging teaching members.
In conclusion, it is important to break the stigma around mental health. There are necessary steps that can be taken to combat this issue. Things like a supportive environment, mental health programs, peer support, and engaging families and communities, can help schools and universities make significant strides in promoting mental health awareness.