With the new school year quickly approaching, mental health is essential to ensuring a seamless transition for students and parents alike.
Mental preparation is critical because a successful school year requires more than physical preparedness. This transition is not easy, but with the proper guidance and techniques, all parties involved can make it through.
The Back-to-School Transition
Dr. Adam Echard, of the Health, Wellness, and Environmental Studies theme at Spanish Lake Magnet School, noted that going back to school routines can be a struggle.
Summer is your typical unstructured time for families and students,” Echard said. Mark Schlefercko said he’s not worried because his children always get back on routine and structure once the school year starts.
For some, the return to school schedule contrasts with leisurely summer days and can be worrisome.
Challenges related to transitioning into new schedules, meeting academic expectations, and social interactions may arise with many students.
Parents and teachers feel the stress of helping their students – an insecurity we all experience.
Why Is School-Year Mental Health Important?
Success in school requires good mental health.
Students who feel emotionally stable are more likely to engage positively in learning and social events.
Additionally, teachers who care for their mental health can more effectively support students and build a healthy learning environment.
Mental Health Resources and Assistance
In response to these challenges, schools provide more mental health resources and services for students and staff.
As the New Year starts, Dr. Echard wants to remind us that “mental health resources are here to help each of us return to our school lives with ease.”
For Students
Counselling Services: School counsellors provide students with an outlet to discuss anything and everything, from academic needs to personal concerns.
Peer Support Programs: Cultivating peer support groups can enable students to engage with individuals likely going through similar challenges.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Schools can offer workshops on mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation tactics to help manage stress.
For Parents
Parent Workshops: Schools may conduct workshops explaining the significance of Mental Health and how parents can help their children.
Open Communication: Encourage open communication between parents, students and teachers to identify potential issues sooner.
For Teachers
Professional Development: Schools can provide staff information literacy sessions on mental health and best practices for supporting students.
Teaching strategies- Self-Care Practices: It is essential to help teachers take better care of themselves to enable them to take good care of their students.
Strategies for a Smooth Transition
Here are tips for managing your mental health while transitioning back to school. Ensure a Smooth Transition for Students, Parents and Faculty by Utilizing These Strategies.
Start on a Routine: Before the first day of school, reestablish a school-year routine so children can get used to going to bed earlier and waking up earlier.
Realistic Expectations: Students should be encouraged to set realistic academic and social goals for the upcoming year, taking some pressure off of having perfect execution.
Cultivate a Positive Mindset: Encourage positive thinking by emphasizing the beautiful discoveries and experiences from participating in the new school year.
Encourage Physical Activity: Regular movement promotes good mental health, so let the pupils do activities they like.
Stress-Reduction Techniques: Stress-reduction techniques stress-relievers teach students strategies such as deep breathing exercises or journaling to help them manage their anxiety.
Conclusion
With the school year coming up, getting your mental health right for a smooth transition is essential. Schools can assist students, parents, or even the staff at large by offering mental health resources and understanding to everyone so that they can navigate through this period more efficiently.
