Protecting Our Students: Mental Health in Children & Teens

After more than a year of remote and hybrid classrooms, as well as quarantines and social distancing, the transition back to fully in-person learning this fall may be difficult for many students.

In fact, a recent survey of K-12 students indicated that 38% of students are concerned about their mental wellbeing, while 51% report being stressed.

Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated existing concerns, 1 in 5 children and teens experienced a mental illness. That means in a classroom of 25, five students may be suffering from common disorders such as ADHD, anxiety or depression. Not only does this make it difficult for children to get the most out of their education, but it also takes a toll on their overall wellbeing.

Mental health concerns have tangible effects that can permeate into adulthood if not addressed. Signs of mental health issues in children and teens may include low energy, sleeping too much or too little, struggling socially or academically, severe mood swings or acting with extreme defiance. While these don’t encompass all symptoms, if they go unaddressed, they can pose serious issues in the future.

If left untreated, children and adolescents facing mental health issues can face more serious concerns such as poor academic performance, withdrawal from family and social circles, deteriorating physical health, engaging in risk-taking or reckless behavior, abuse of alcohol or illegal drugs, or even have thoughts of suicide.

Despite help being available, many children and teens lack the awareness and tools to navigate the complexity of their mental health. Here’s how parents can encourage good mental health practices for their students.

• Understand and recognize the signs of deteriorating mental health in your child or teen and come up with positive coping skills to hold them accountable to.
• Encourage physical activity, a balanced diet and adequate sleep.
• Promote healthy social relationships and connection, which help children and teens build a sense of belonging and community, as well as providing an emotional support system.
• Communicate openly, lead by example and diminish stigma. When appropriate, talk openly about the struggles you’ve faced and how you overcame them. Stress the importance of mental health just as you would physical health.
• Reach out for professional help when necessary.

Early intervention and treatment play a significant role in lessening the effects of mental illness on children and teens. When children learn positive coping skills and seek support, mental illness can be mitigated or help prevent the development of lifelong mental illness.

Seeking support for mental health needs, whether that is through therapy, medication management or both, is simple. Right Track Medical Group is equipped to help children and teens navigate this part of their life. For more information, contact a clinic location nearest you or call our office at (662) 234-7601.