How to promote a culture of positive mental health in schools
Mental health awareness has become a crucial aspect of education. With one in six children aged five to 16 identified as having a probable mental health problem in July 2021, a huge increase from one in nine in 2017, it’s a problem on the up. A pandemic didn’t exactly help matters with 83% agreeing the events over the last few years has made their mental health worse.[1]
It’s something we know the brands and organisations we work with are keen to support. Whether it’s building emotional resilience in pre-teens through a sci-fi podcast adventure with the University of Sussex or through our educator-wellbeing campaign with Bupa, because it’s not just students that are struggling.
So, in honour of Mental Health Awareness month, we wanted to share some of the most effective ways in which educators and schools can help nurture positive mental health in the classroom.
Create a supportive environment
Promoting positive mental health begins with cultivating a supportive and inclusive environment within the school. Establishing anti-bullying policies and fostering a culture of respect and kindness seems obvious, but it lays a firm foundation for promoting a safe space for students to discuss their concerns and experiences openly. When students feel supported and accepted, it reduces their stress and anxiety levels.
Build knowledge and awareness
To combat the stigma surrounding mental health, it is vital to educate both students and staff members about various mental health conditions and their impact. Regular mental health workshops, presentations, and training sessions can provide valuable insights into recognising the warning signs, fostering empathy, and developing coping strategies. The more we know, the better equipped we are to support each other.
Make the most of curriculum opportunities
We shouldn't treat mental health as a separate topic. By incorporating mental health education into the curriculum, it can help normalise discussions and enhance students' overall understanding of mental health. PSHE and Citizenship is the clear opportunity to do this, with lessons and resources covering topics such as stress management, resilience-building and self-care, but it’s also an opportunity to link it the less obvious subjects too.
Whether it’s promoting reading to destress or exploring the chemical reactions in your brain in your next Science lesson, by integrating mental health education into various subjects, we ensure that these discussions are not isolated but instead woven into the fabric of everyday learning.
Provide access to professional support
Sometimes, we all need a little extra help. That’s where access to mental health professionals comes in. School counsellors or mental health support workers can offer confidential guidance and support, and if resources are limited, having a dedicated signposting hub on the intranet can also be a simple way to ensure ease of access to support.
Promote emotional literacy
Understanding and managing emotions is key to positive mental health. Programmes like peer support or mentorship schemes where older students guide and support younger ones is a great way for individuals to develop emotional intelligence. Encouraging open discussions about emotions, mindfulness practices, and promoting self-reflection can empower students to understand and manage their emotions effectively.
And don’t forget the importance of physical health too
It’s well documented that physical and mental health are intricately connected. But it’s sometimes easy to forget. Through our award-winning work on Studio You with Sport England and This Girl Can, we know that over a third of girls rely on in-school provision to any kind of physical activity and 57% aren’t hitting the government’s daily activity guidelines.[2][3] Schools play a crucial role in helping young people understand, and more importantly, feel the benefits of getting active, and in turn promote a holistic approach to wellbeing.
Put simply, promoting a culture of positive mental health within schools isn’t a quick fix. It requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses all of the above and Mental Health Awareness month is a great reminder to all of us of our collective responsibility in helping prioritise mental health and ensure young people have the tools and support in order to thrive.
[1] Latest mental health statistics, Young Minds, 2022
[2] Reframing Sport for Teenage Girls: Tackling Teenage Disengagement, Women in Sport, March 2022
[3] Active Lives Children and Young People, Sport England, December 2021
At Hopscotch, we know how to drive purpose through the power of education. We are well-versed in getting to the heart of issues that matter to young people, families and communities. Creating programmes and campaigns that help to promote positive mental health and tackle the challenges young people face – from body confidence to financial wellbeing – is great opportunity for businesses, brands and organisations alike to help deliver authentic social impact.
Want to know more? Let’s chat.
