Mental Health: The Importance of Taking a Break
As the sun sets sooner and the end of the fall semester approaches, it can be easy to continue through the motions. Mental illness is becoming less stigmatized as it is now considered an epidemic, and more people seek help. It is crucial for a person’s health to recognize the symptoms that are caused by mental health issues. And while students between the ages of 15-24 seem to be most at risk for mental illnesses stemming from the pressures of their daily routine, it is necessary to have open discussions with students of all ages about the ways they can maintain their mental health.
What are some of the indicators of mental health issues?
Some behavioral changes that children experience may be indicators of mental health issues. While this is not cause for alarm, it is important to recognize these issues early on to address them effectively. These changes can include:
- Withdrawal or avoidance of social gatherings or interactions
- Chronic sadness
- Sudden outbursts
- Changes in eating habits or weight
- Difficulty sleeping
- Changes in academic performance
- A lack of desire to participate in school or other activities
How to support the mental health of children and teenagers
Talk about it
Being able to identify the primary behaviors that may indicate mental health issues is the first step. And having regular conversations with our children can aid in determining what the key stressors are and can eliminate the stigma surrounding the importance of sustaining mental health.
It is also important to have open dialogues with our children’s educators to see if they have noticed any changes in our child’s behavior. While academic success is essential, the students’ well-being is primary, and reminding our children that they are not defined by their grades can alleviate their high stress levels.
Take a break
Taking a break from school work and from professional work can be important in setting boundaries that may last a lifetime. As parents, if we can demonstrate balance and openly share our feelings, our children will feel more comfortable reciprocating openness with us. Taking time as a family, even if it is just for a half hour or so to come together and reconnect through conversation, dinners, short walks, can do wonders. Quality time together does not need to be planned or have an agenda, as long as it is meaningful.
Get Outdoors
There is a positive correlation between strong mental health and being outdoors. Fall has cooler weather, and nature is pulling out all the stops during this season. The changing leaves, clear skies, and gentle breezes make it a good time to step outside and unplug. Children, particularly our elementary aged students, need time and space to play outdoors, far away from technology and screens.
Enjoy a few moments as a family these next coming weeks to inhale deeply, enjoy the coziness of fall, and unplug.
Get a private tutor
Sometimes the solution includes getting a private tutor and asking others for help. Students who improve academically have also shown improvements in non-academic areas including mental health and life satisfaction.
Subjects of private tutoring such as those offered by Novel Education, can be tailored by subject or skill so students can focus not only on improving their grades, but also their social and emotional well-being.
We’ve provided Life Coaches and academic counsellors for students all over the world to help them combat their anxiety and disinterest surrounding school.
Oftentimes, a child with an emotional behavior disability requires additional assistance such as special needs tutoring to reach optimum success. And homeschooling can be the best option for students struggling with their mental health.
Statistically, homeschoolers have significantly better social, emotional, and psychological development than those in conventional schools, partially because of their shorter, more flexible days, and personalized approach to learning.
