Fall is upon us, and the 20-21 school year is in full swing. While some feelings of normalcy have returned, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to exact a toll on not just the physical health, but the mental health of the nation. As we head deeper into a still sometimes uncertain school year, it’s important for parents, caregivers, and school personnel to know the signs that a young person is struggling with his or her mental health.
We know that stress and anxiety can be common during the school year for students, but with the pandemic upon us, it’s even more important to pay attention. For those who are physically back at school, simply navigating the continuing uncertainty of lifestyle changes, media communications, etc., can feel overwhelming. And for those who are learning virtually, too much isolation can be harmful. Research shows that chronic loneliness can translate to poor sleep, high blood pressure, greater risk of suicidal ideation, and even alcohol and drug use. Depression and anxiety have increased nation-wide in the months since the pandemic began.
It's important to note that half of all mental health disorders begin by the age of 14, and about 75 percent begin by the age of 24. But it’s also important to know that mental health issues are common and treatable – you don’t have to suffer in silence. Know the signs and symptoms of mental health issues so that you can seek help for you or someone you care about. Free, confidential, and anonymous screening tools are available at www.MHAScreening.org to check in on symptoms and to find resources to help.
Just like physical health, taking care of mental health struggles early can help to prevent more serious problems from developing in the future. If you are concerned that you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental health problem, it is important to act. Start the conversation. Seek help from a trusted adult. A parent, a teacher, a counselor. Remember there is nothing to be ashamed of and that there is help and hope.
There are also serious signs that someone is in crisis and needs more immediate help. These include thoughts or plans of hurting oneself or another person. If you think a child or teen is in immediate danger of taking suicidal action, call the national suicide hotline at 1-800-273-TALK. Their trained crisis counselors can help you find local resources or suggest next steps. You can also look up information for a local mobile crisis team, psychiatric hospital, or psychiatric unit and call or go to the hospital for immediate support.
In this very important work that we do, nothing is more crucial that the wellbeing and safety of our students and our staff. Take care of each other, and never be afraid to ask for help.
Thank you and take care,
Ashley Ward, MS, LPC
Counseling Coordinator and Student Support
Mabank ISD
amward@mabankisd.net
