The Importance of Mental Health for Students

Introduction 

Students often face extreme pressure academically, personally, and socially and educational institutions prioritize grades, career preparations, and achievements. However, one critical aspect that is overlooked is, mental health of students. 

The concept of mental health requires attention before it impacts students in the worst possible ways. Now-a-days, students face extreme mental challenges as they juggle several tasks to reach their goals. Focusing on the mental health of students is as important as physical health, as it affects overall quality of life. Also, emphasizing the importance of mental health education helps students to invest in their overall well-being and provide support to their classmates. 

This blog explores the importance of mental education for students, the challenges they come across, and strategies to maintain good mental health.

Mental Health- An Overview 

The concept of mental health has been discussed for many years and it’s equally essential to understand the importance of mental health from a student’s perspective. 

Mental health of a person describes social, mental, and also psychological behaviour. And, directly affects the way we think, behave, and feel in our day-to-day lives. 

Providing mental health education in schools and colleges is just not beneficial; as it raises awareness about mental health issues surrounding them, guiding people about the coping strategies, and challenges that may arise. A thorough understanding of the importance of mental health help to eliminate the stigma surrounding it and encourage students to adopt pro-active approaches to manage anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and burn out. In extreme cases, neglecting mental health can lead students to harm themselves.

Investing in mental health education can change students experience by assisting them to:

• Stay motivated and engage in studies
• Effectively handle social and academic pressures
• Develop meaningful and positive relationships with friends and teaching faculty 
• Build confidence and resilience strong enough to face life challenges ahead

Importance of Mental Health for Students 

• Academic Success

Students with stronger mental health concentrate better, effectively retain information, and excel in examinations. And, they have high self-esteem and are encouraged to achieve their goals. 

Also, students struggling to balance their mental health find it extremely difficult to pay attention in the classroom and lead to poor academic grades. In extreme conditions, this may result in suspensions from the educational institution. 

• Growth and Confidence 

Building emotional stability and recognizing their self-worth, help students to make informed academic decisions, set futuristic goals, and take relevant risks for their overall growth. 

• Lower Risks 

Students juggle multiple responsibilities like extra-curricular activities and part-time jobs. And, maintaining good mental health of students is essential to avoid exhaustion and burnout.

• Improved Social Relationships

Good mental health of students are more likely to lay the foundation for developing healthy relationships, such as maintaining positive interactions with teachers and friends, actively participating in teamwork, among others.  Conversely, poor mental health conditions lead to withdrawal from social circles and isolation.

Additionally, the basic habits learnt during the student phase of life will be automatically carried into adulthood. Therefore, learning to handle stress, achieving emotional stability, and practice self-care sets a robust foundation for the future.

Alert Signs of Poor Mental Health in Students

Recognizing the signs of poor mental health in students is essential, as they are visible warning signs.

Some of the warning signs, include:

• Inattentiveness in class
• Decline in academic performance
• Irregular sleeping and eating habits
• Withdrawal from social circles 
• Lack of motivation and interest
• Anxiety, panic, or fear
• Hopelessness, irritability, or sadness feeling
• Hyperactivity 
• Increased intake of drugs and  alcohol
• And, Chest pain, increased heartbeat rate ,nausea, and headache 

These signs help in providing support for students struggling to balance their mental health. 

If these signs are left untreated, issues relating mental health can lead to serious consequences, including-

• Self-harm 
• Suicidal thoughts 
• Inability to control drug usage 
• High-risk sexual behaviours

Common Myths of Mental Health Among Students 

Myths related to mental health in students, includes:

• Mental health is a choice
• Mental health cannot be treated with medication 
• Children don’t experience mental health issues

These myths are often misleading and can still worsen the suffering student’s situation. 

How Educational Institutions Support Mental Health of Students

Educational institutions hold a significant role in supporting the mental health of students, as they spend a considerable amount of time at school or college premises.

Here is how they can help:

• Counselling services
• Mental Health Campaigns 
• Mental Health Awareness Initiatives
• Health Clubs and peer support
• Training for Teachers 
• Flexible Policies

Mental Health in Students- Strategies to Adopt

• Physical Activity 

Taking part in physical activities regularly improves your blood circulation, and boosts mood, and help in reducing anxiety. And, even a small initiative towards physical activity can lead to improvements in student’s mental health. 

• Sufficient Sleep

Many students often sacrifice their sleep due to academic pressure, such as exams, internals, and assignments. However, lack of sleep impedes memory, productivity, and ultimately disturbs mental health in students. So, it’s essential to build a proper sleep routine. 

• Time Management 

Time management is crucial especially for students. Proper time management reduces their workload and also last-minute stress of students. They can utilize planners and various apps to balance academics workload. 

• Reducing Screen Time

Social media is a major key to stress and can lower self-esteem in students. So, students should make sure to set screen-time limits and also maintain a perfect balance between social media usage and academics.

• Build Strong Social Connections 

Developing a network of supportive peers and mentors truly provides emotional stability. Discussing your problems often reduces the mental stress faced by the students. 

• Practice Meditation and Yoga

Yoga and meditation seem simple, but incredibly powerful tools for managing stress. And, simple breathing exercises help improve focus and help students to cope with stress. 

However, seeking professional counselling assistance is essential, as trained professionals assist in addressing your mental health issues and provide effective coping techniques. 

Conclusion 

Ultimately, students having good mental health and emotional balance excel in academics, step confidently into future life, and develop meaningful and strong relationships with others. 

Conversely, students suffering from mental health or emotional imbalances can benefit from the right support system, coping techniques, and open communication can make a significant difference in their lives. 

Nurturing the mental health of students is a futuristic investment. A mentally strong and stable student, further becomes a responsible and compassionate adult.