Mental health issues in children and young adults can not only affect the student but also those who interact with them regularly. Educators are often the first to notice mental health issues in their students due to how frequently they see each other. According to SPRC.org, a suicide prevention resource center that provides resources and statistics on mental health states “Research suggests that depression is associated with lower grade point averages and that co-occurring depression and anxiety can increase this association.” Aside from lower grade point averages, the socioeconomic health of a student is drastically affected. During these formative years, adults who are in contact should be equipped with signs of a decline in morale in their students. Here are 4 signs you should check in with a student who might be struggling.
- Decline in Participation
All of your students will not be eager to participate in class; however, if a particular student was active in class discussions and lately they’ve been more reclusive, it might be time to check-in. Their decline in participation can vary from a decrease in interest in the content or something occurring in the classroom that you are unaware of. Either way, it’s always a good idea to check in with the students to make sure that they are aware you are available to support them. I made a YouTube video showing how I check in with my students every morning that you should check out. I also have a blog post detailing the benefits of checking in with your students every so often that you should check out.
- Students comment on their peer’s behavior
Whether it’s routines like hanging out after school or sitting at the same lunch table, your peers will take note if there is a shift in behavior. The teacher may notice this shift if this affects class projects or group classwork. Asking someone about their friends and being intentional with your questions can give you a hint as to how a student is doing. If the people around them notice a behavior change, then it might be time to check-in.
- Lack of Personal Care
Addressing hygiene can be a susceptible topic that needs to be handled with care and understanding. Depending on the age of your student, there may be a need to check in with the parent instead of the child. I wrote a blog post about the time I needed to make a home visit in response to a hygiene concern that you should check out. As an educator who is constantly in the classroom, extra storage of clothing and hygiene products should be available to you provided by the school or your families. Conversations like this should happen in private, possibly during transitions to another class or during classwork when the class is busy.
- Physical Symptoms
Constant aches and pains can be a warning sign of a bigger issue. Students may not have the ability to articulate medical emergencies and instead of seeking medical attention, they allow physical ailments to burden them which can cause a decrease in their mental health. Be aware if a student is constantly telling you that a part of their body is hurting them or if they appear different. You may notice something that their guardian may disregard and as a mandated reporter, you are obligated to notify parents of these types of concerns.
Suppose you notice several of these signs persisting over time or becoming more severe. In that case, it’s essential to reach out to the appropriate professionals, such as school counselors, psychologists, or mental health professionals, to ensure the student receives the support they need. It is also important to build a rapport with your students so they can feel supported by the person they interact with most frequently.
Until Next Time
Melissa~