Mental Wellbeing

 

The Importance of Emotional Wellbeing

Mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health, even though it might not always be as visible or easy to identify. For students in school, emotional wellbeing becomes particularly significant during key moments in their academic journey, such as preparation for GCSEs or A-levels. These examination periods can often bring about heightened stress and pressure, making it essential to prioritise their emotional support alongside their academic progress.

A decline in emotional wellbeing can manifest as stress, anxiety or depression. These feelings may also impact physical health, often leading to issues like difficulty sleeping, low energy levels, or feeling physically unwell. Recognising the signs of these struggles is crucial, as is equipping students with strategies to build resilience and manage their emotions effectively. This can help them maintain a positive outlook during challenging times.

 

Understanding Emotional Challenges

As secondary school students navigate their daily routines, they are likely to encounter moments of sadness, frustration, or worry. While these emotions are a natural part of life and often temporary, there are times when they persist and begin to impact day-to-day functioning. Prolonged periods of feeling down can interfere with their ability to focus, connect with peers, or perform well academically.

This is why it is vital for students, teachers, and parents to identify when feelings of sadness or anxiety extend beyond normal circumstances and to understand when extra support is needed. Talking about emotions and seeking help from trusted adults, counsellors, or friends can be an invaluable first step toward recovery.

 

What Mental Wellbeing Includes

Mental wellbeing in a school setting encompasses several key factors that contribute to a student's overall sense of balance and happiness. These include:

· Feeling confident in themselves and able to function well both individually and within social groups.

· Coping with the ups and downs of student life, such as managing deadlines, exam pressures, and forming friendships.

· Maintaining a connection to the school community and feeling supported by teachers and peers.

· Being able to make decisions and have control over their academic and extracurricular pursuits.

· Feeling purposeful and valued as part of the school environment.

 

Mental wellbeing does not mean being cheerful all the time or avoiding negative emotions. Experiences such as grief over the loss of a loved one, disappointment from not achieving a goal, or struggling with changes are all part of life. However, learning to recognise when these feelings linger and begin to affect daily life is essential for ensuring long-term wellbeing.

 

What Positive Mental Health Looks Like

Positive mental health in secondary school students goes beyond the absence of mental health struggles—it involves actively nurturing emotional skills and qualities that promote resilience and adaptability. Positive mental health includes:

· Developing a love of learning and curiosity about the world.

· The ability to feel, express, and manage a range of emotions, including both positive and negative ones.

· Building and maintaining healthy relationships with classmates, teachers, and family members.

· Learning to cope with change and uncertainty, such as transitioning between year groups or adapting to new academic challenges.

 

By fostering emotional wellbeing and positive mental health, students can navigate their educational journey with greater confidence and resilience, preparing them not only for exams but also for the challenges of life beyond school.