Today, we no doubt witness counselling becoming an increasingly important part of the teaching curriculum. However, what does counselling in schools actually encompass? Is it merely a session before the academic year begins, or a service for students facing trouble or involved in unwanted activities? Is it confined to career counsellingalone? Counseling is a wide canvas where the minds of each and every student in a school must be painted.
In our relentless pursuit of providing the best education for our children, we often focus heavily on academic success. Parents invest in numerous tuition classes, ensuring that their children grasp every concept, excel in every subject, and achieve stellar grades. However, amidst this rigorous academic routine, we frequently overlook a critical aspect of our children’s development—their mental well-being.
The Foundation of Mental Health
The mental health of children is as crucial as their physical health. Just as an architect ensures that the foundation of a tall, beautiful building is solid and strong, we must ensure that the mental foundations of our children are equally robust. The hormonal and social changes that accompany childhood and adolescence can be tumultuous, making it imperative to provide a supportive environment where children can express their emotions and navigate their challenges.
The Role of Schools in Mental Health
Most children spend a significant portion of their day at school. With both parents often working, there is limited time for in-depth discussions with their children. Moreover, some children are naturally introverted and may not readily share their problems, leading to feelings of isolation and helplessness. This can sometimes culminate in tragic outcomes such as self-harm or suicide. The social and career pressures that children face today are unprecedented, making it even more essential for schools to play an active role in their mental well-being.
Implementing Compulsory Counselling
Schools should implement compulsory counselling sessions not just for children who exhibit visible problems but for all students. Counselling is not just a one-day affair. It is a regular need for students and hence must be included in the school timetable as a part of regular classes. A student may not open up in just one session, but over time, they will gather the confidence to speak about their problems to the counsellor. This consistent approach ensures that every student can be protected from falling into self-created disastrous situations. A weekly class dedicated to mental health can cover various critical topics such as dealing with pressure, recognizing the signs of depression, strategies for stress management, and the importance of seeking help when needed.
The Counsellor’s Role in Behavioural Observation
As a counsellor, it is their responsibility to observe the behaviour of students during regular sessions. If any strange or concerning behaviour is observed, the counsellor must take appropriate action. Furthermore, counsellors should train students to be mindful of their peers’ behaviour and encourage them to inform the counsellor if they notice anything unusual. This dual approach ensures that potential issues are identified and addressed promptly.
A Few Key Topics for Mental Health Education
Suicide Awareness and Prevention: Educating students on the signs of suicidal thoughts, how to seek help, and supporting peers who may be struggling.
Dealing with Pressure: Teaching coping mechanisms for academic and social pressures, and promoting a balanced approach to success and failure.
Communication Skills: Encouraging open dialogue about emotions and problems, breaking the stigma associated with mental health issues.
Problem-Solving Techniques: Providing tools to address and manage problems before they become overwhelming.
Building Resilience: Fostering a resilient mindset that helps children bounce back from setbacks and challenges.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Integrating compulsory counselling into the school curriculum creates a proactive rather than reactive approach to mental health. Children will gain the awareness and tools to effectively manage stress and emotional challenges. This supportive environment can improve academic performance,relationships, and overall well-being.
As we strive to build a strong educational foundation for our children, we must equally prioritize their mental health. Compulsory counselling in schools is not just a luxury but a necessity to ensure that our children grow up to be well-rounded, persistent, and emotionally healthy individuals. Let us take the first step towards a brighter, more supportive future for our children.
The author is a Motivational Speaker, a former Airline Commercial Pilot for the Boeing series/Airbus 340/330, and presently resides in the UK
