The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on mental health, with 1 in 6 children now facing mental health issues. As teachers play a crucial role in identifying and supporting students, it's essential to ensure educators have access to the necessary resources and support to help improve the well-being of both students and staff.
But with teachers feeling overwhelmed with growing responsibilities, how can schools ensure that the mental health and wellbeing of students are taken care of without overburdening the teachers?
The UK government has stepped in with the budget of £7 million for the Wellbeing for Education Recovery programme. With an aim for every school to have a Designated Mental Health Lead (DMHL) in place by 2025, they’re providing free expert training to teachers and staff to help students facing grief, trauma, and anxiety.
Here are a few training opportunities whether you want to become a DMHL or in general as an educator, want to broaden your knowledge on mental health in children:
Schools are now required to include mental health and wellbeing in their curriculum to raise awareness. At primary school, pupils learn that mental wellbeing is a normal part of daily life and why simple self-care – like getting enough sleep and spending time outdoors and with friends – is important. At secondary school, the teaching builds, ensuring pupils can spot the signs of common mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression in themselves or others.
It may have taken a pandemic to get there, but now with the role of the designated mental health lead, students' emotional welfare is given equal importance as their physical health.
Prioritising a child's mental health can contribute to their overall development, improving their social, communication, and emotional skills. By fostering a mentally healthy culture, where open discussions are encouraged, schools can create a positive and supportive environment for students and teachers, during a time when we need to focus on it most.
