Mental health and wellness is a spectrum, ranging from a state of wellness to significant ill health.
The World Health Organization defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing, rather than merely the absence of disease or infirmity. An important implication of this definition is that mental health is more than just the absence of mental disorders or disabilities, but the presence of a state of holistic wellbeing and the ability to respond flexibly to challenges.
Recent research from countries like New Zealand shows that fewer young people than ever rate their wellbeing and mental health as good. Teachers are an important part of supporting students with their wellbeing and mental health. Supportive relationships with teachers are associated with student wellbeing, and teachers may often be the first to notice signs of difficulty, such as changes in behaviour or academic performance. As trusted adults who know students well, teachers can also play an important role in bridging the gap to formal support.
Research consistently demonstrates that declines in mental health impact school performance, and that strong, trusting relationships with teachers are associated with student wellbeing. Research into the causes of mental health and wellbeing issues has identified common themes, including academic and other stress, and the challenges of navigating relationships and complex social dynamics.
Schools are essential both to promoting wellbeing and to a functional mental health response for students. Building strong, trusting relationships between teachers and students is one of the bestways to promote wellbeing across the school. All schools should also have relevant policies and processes in place to ensure consistent resourcing for promoting wellbeing and mental health, and to set out appropriate responses when students experience challenges or distress.Teachers should be alert to potential warning signs of possible mental health decline such as changes in behaviour or academic performance, as intervening early and supporting students is essential for their wellbeing. The earlier support is offered, the more likely schools and teachers are to have a positive impact on the student.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. SETTINGSACCEPT
cookies policy
Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are as essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
