Supporting mental health in the classroom

Mental health and wellbeing are important factors to consider in the classroom. Poor mental health sees pupils struggle and can lead to behavioural problems and difficulties in learning. Many pupils choose to handle their mental health in silence, often not sharing how they are feeling, as their wellbeing deteriorates. As educators, it is key to be able to identify pupils who are struggling and be able to support them.

Identifying poor mental health

While some pupils may not tell you explicitly that they are struggling, there are a number of signs educators should be on the lookout for when it comes to mental health:

Change in behaviour

Many attribute this to a bubbly and energetic pupil suddenly becoming withdrawn which can of course be a sign, however, pupils can also exhibit the opposite behaviour with a once quiet and reserved child suddenly becoming more energetic, loud, or having outbursts. Some change can of course be positive, a once shy pupil getting a boost in confidence is often a good thing, but it is important to pay close attention for sudden unexplainable changes in behaviour.

Absence

A pupil that is often absent from school may be struggling. Whether its problems at school such as bullying leading them to avoid going to school or issues at home requiring them to stay back, regularly absences are a cause for concern.

Sudden drop in academic achievements

Schools should always pay attention to their pupil’s academic achievements, helping support pupils who are struggling, however, at times a drop in performance can happen regardless of academic prowess. A sudden drop in academic achievement can be an indication that the pupil is troubled by something outside of learning.

How to support pupils’ mental health

There are a number of ways to support your pupils’ mental health on the school grounds

Be a safe space

Pupils need to know that they have someone in the school that is able to support them. By being supportive of your pupils and showing them that you have their best interests at heart they will feel more inclined to share what’s on their mind and allow you to better support them.

Foster open communication

Often young people feel ashamed of their struggles, leading them to not open up. Ensure that your pupils are aware that in your classroom they can share their thoughts without judgment and expect to receive support.

Teach coping skills

Coping skills and stress management is not always taught in schools, but these can be very strong tools for your pupils to learn. Whether they struggle with the school workload, friends, or issues at home, being taught ways to handle these situations can help your pupils deescalate them and avoid stress build up.

Alternative Provision

At times, pupils need more individualised support to help their mental health transform and put them on the right track for learning. Alternative Provision helps to provide a safe space for learners who struggle in mainstream education, utilising alternative techniques and a 1-2-1 approach to develop skills and help reintegrate them into school.

LMP Action’s Alternative Provision encompasses inclusion, restoration and self-awareness practices. Harnessing personal responsibility and growth to support and develop young people. LMP Action is experienced in delivering support to young people to help them reintegrate into mainstream education by using restorative practice, specialist programmes, vocational qualifications and core subject learning where attending mainstream education is not suitable.

If you are interested in learning more about how your school can utilise Alternative Provision to support your pupils, book a discovery call with the LMP Action team today!