According to the World Health Organization, nearly one in four students worldwide is affected by mental health issues. Studies also believe that these students tend to get worse grades. Mental health is an important aspect of overall well-being, particularly for students who face numerous academic, social, and personal pressures. Overcoming mental health challenges is not just an individual journey. It involves the collective efforts of loved ones—be they parents, siblings, friends, or guardians. Understanding the causes of these challenges and knowing how to provide effective support can make a significant difference in the lives of affected individuals.
Mental health challenges in students can arise from a variety of factors. For instance, the intense pressure to perform well academically can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. The fear of failure and the desire to meet high expectations often weigh heavily on students and if care is not taken can damage a student’s mental health. For some students, the fear of navigating social dynamics, fitting in, and forming friendships can be challenging, especially those who have had yheir fair share of bullying and peer pressure. The need to be accepted can significantly impact a student’s mental health.
For some students, family conflicts, divorce, and domestic violence from home can create an unstable home environment, affecting a student’s mental health. For others who are from low income families, the cost of education and related expenses can be a significant source of stress for students and their families. Financial insecurity as well as lack of emotional support at home can lead to anxiety and distract students from their studies.
Experiencing trauma, such as abuse, accidents, or the loss of a loved one, can have long-lasting effects on a student’s mental health. Trauma can lead to conditions such as PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). When thus happens, such students find it hard to concentrate on their studies or focus on any other sphere of life. Also, the misuse of drugs and alcohol can both result from and contribute to mental health issues. Substance abuse often exacerbates existing mental health conditions and can lead to additional problems.
In addition, some studnets find it hard to adapt to major life changes, such as moving to a new school, transitioning from high school to university, or relocating to a different city. It can be stressful and impact mental health. For students who are always reading and engaged in school activities, lack of adequate sleep can lead to or worsen mental health issues. Sleep deprivation affects cognitive function, mood, and overall health. Such students will not be able to function well or concentrate in class.
To provide effective support for students with mental health challenges, parents, guardians, and loved ones must be ready to provide understanding, empathy, and practical assistance. Create a safe space where students feel comfortable discussing their feelings without fear of judgement. Ensure you regularly check in with them and show genuine interest in their well-being and academic
Learn to listen attentively and empathetically without interrupting or offering unsolicited advice. Sometimes, simply being heard can be incredibly comforting.
In your own spare time, learn about mental health. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatments of various mental health conditions can help you provide informed support. Also, be aware of warning signs of mental health issues, such as changes in behaviour, withdrawal from social activities, and declining academic performance.
Mental health recovery can be a long and challenging process, hence you need to be patient and understanding. Show empathy, empathise with their struggles and validate their feelings, avoid dismissing their experiences or telling them to “just get over it.” Lastly, students should be encourage to seek professional help from counsellors, therapists, or psychologists.
