Student anxiety is almost inevitable in today\u2019s times as they are placed under pressure from parents, teachers and peers. This can include pressure to achieve, pressure to fit in with the crowd and often pressure placed on them in home circumstances that are far from ideal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mental health plays a big role in students\u2019 achievement at school, and the wise teacher identifies problems and intervenes. Teachers today are given the training and support they need to identify problems in children and young people who are battling with mental health issues. Fortunately, many schools today also have dedicated social workers who counsel and educate children and young adults.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mental health is an increasing concern<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Statistics released by the National Alliance of Mental Illness<\/a> (NAMI) state that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n These concerning figures serve to remind us that mental health is a reality in our lives today and that the stigmas of the past no longer apply \u2014 poor mental health needs to be taken very seriously.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pressure and anxiety in the classroom<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Anxiety in children and teens can be due to many factors: issues at home, pressure to perform in class, embarrassment if they are not performing, bullying on the playground and teenage dating issues, among others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When children flock into the classroom, they are seldom focused on the lesson ahead. They jostle and joke, laugh and chat, daydream or ponder a problem at home or with a friend. There are many methods that teachers can use to calm their pupils down and prepare for the lesson ahead. Doing some deep breathing or a short mindfulness exercise<\/a> with the students can do wonders to bring their focus back to the present. When appropriate, teachers can play music or show a video clip that is relevant to the lesson.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Below are some signs that help teachers identify anxiety issues in some children that are often an indication of a bigger problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Inattentiveness and restlessness can be indications of anxiety, but they are also symptomatic of behavioral disorders such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mood changes and increased disciplinary problems at school such as disruptive behavior, which could include throwing tantrums or being aggressive, is often a sign of anxiety but can also be an indication of a behavioral disorder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Frequent ailments and attendance problems may also be an indicator of anxiety. When children regularly find reasons not to attend school \u2014 usually due to headaches or nausea \u2014 and are reluctant to return to school after a holiday or illness, there is usually underlying anxiety, such as underperformance in class or bullying on the playground.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Learning disorders can also cause anxiety in students, particularly in the period before the disorder has been diagnosed. The student may feel stupid and inadequate without realizing that there is a reason for their inability to keep up with their peers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When students avoid socializing or group work, it may be an indication that they feel inadequate in some way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n School counselors and the role they play<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When teachers suspect that a student may have a problem with their mental health or be suffering from anxiety issues, they should call on a school counselor. School counselors foster a culture of mental wellbeing in the school environment and educate both teachers and students on how to improve their wellbeing. Not all schools have a resident counselor, but students can be referred to an independent counselor if required. School counselors are licensed by the state in which they are employed, and most states require a master\u2019s degree to qualify for employment at a school.<\/p>\n\n\n\n School counselors are there to support students\u2019 academic, social and mental development, helping them to overcome any feelings of inadequacy or shyness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Educational facilities have come to the realization that educating students on mental health issues and the possible interventions that can play a role in reducing the instances of anxiety suffered by students. If nothing else, education can help individuals recognize their symptoms or those of their friends and encourage them to seek help. Education that is open and honest reduces the stigma that is a major deterrent when students should be seeking help but are afraid to do so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Interventions provided by school counselors<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n School counselors conduct education in schools, covering subjects such as mental health issues, career guidance and substance abuse. They teach students various life skills and develop their sense of responsibility and self-confidence. They help students with their subject choices and decisions about their future studies, and when the time comes, guide them through the college application process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Teachers also seek guidance from their school counselor in matters such as classroom management or dealing with various religious, ethnic and cultural groups. School counselors may also find themselves in a position of mediation in conflict situations between students and teachers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Children struggling to cope with problems at home receive counseling, and school counselors may perform home visits to support children who need additional care. They sometimes counsel parents when appropriate and help them with services such as housing and food programs, referring them to nongovernmental or state-run facilities where available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n They advocate for the mental health and emotional needs of students and their families to be addressed. School counselors do not provide long-term counseling services but will refer students to professional counselors if necessary and follow up on their progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n