Students and Mental health
As the new school year approaches, students are preparing themselves for another year of focus and study.
The relationship between academic stress and mental health is a well-researched topic. Research shows that academic stress can lead to lower wellbeing, anxiety and depression. Students experiencing academic stress tend to do poorly in school.
The desire to achieve high grades and being in a difficult educational environment can lead to increased levels of academic stress for some.
Additionally, for those with pre-existing mental health conditions, the academic stress can be a trigger for worsening of symptoms.
Student life exposes adolescents to risk factors for poor mental health including: periods of transition, loss of previous years supports, parental pressure, peer pressure, substance use, pressure to perform, long hours of study, bullying and social conflict and more.
Student Mental Health Statistics Australia
From the Australian Child and Adolescent Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing 2013–14 (Young Minds Matter) (Lawrence et al. 2015) it is estimated that, in the 12 months before the survey 560,000 children and adolescents aged 4–17 (14%) experienced a mental disorder.
From the 2021 NSMHWB (ABS 2022a) it is estimated that 40% of 16–24-year-olds were most likely to have experienced symptoms of a mental disorder in the previous 12 months.
Signs a Student May be Struggling
Low attendance in classes
Withdrawal from social activities
Lower grades then expected
Changes in behaviour
Increased conflict with peers
Physical signs of fatigue
Withdrawn or low mood
Agitation or other signs of anxiety
Expressing a lot of worries that don’t respond to reassurance
Strategies to Support Student Mental Health for Parents
Help your child identify their emotions and model empathy
Support your child to manage stress and anxiety
Provide a safe place for them to talk to you without judgement or fear of discipline (Ask open ended questions and use reflective listening)
Focus on your child’s strengths to improve confidence
Provide opportunity for fun
Provide opportunity for exercise and physical health
Involve yourself with the school, engage with the child’s teachers
Model healthy coping mechanisms for stress including going for walks and deep breathing exercises
Gain support through external sources
Strategies to Support Student Mental Health for Schools
Keep open ended communication with parents
Provide a safe and secure learning environment
Model stress management exercises
Incorporate stress management into the curriculum
Provide opportunity for physical exercise
Keep an updated website with resources for mental health
Engage with a mental health expert
Have a wellness centre on campus with access to mental health support and safe spaces
Give basic mental health training to all teachers
If you are concerned about your student or child’s mental wellbeing:
Book an appointment with your General Practitioner
Visit Headspace.com.au
