Discussions on mental health are rising rapidly as more complaints come in for students’ mental wellbeing. Statistics show that 14% of high school students have contemplated suicide and 7% have attempted it. This goes to show the amount of strain young people are under as they surpass education. These types of notions can be a root cause of many things; issues at home, issues at school or problems an individual is facing on a daily basis to overcome an obstacle. There are many reasons that can be concluded to provide evidence for this matter.
Many students have also complained that they are under stress to perform well at school which can reflect on their mental health and some believe that schools care more about grades than students’ physical or mental wellbeing. Rebecca Ogbonna (17) agreed with the statement and commented, “Mental health is not regarded as much as grades. There is often more behavioural management therapy than there is for people who deal with anxiety and/or depression.” And, in addition to this, Rebecca added her concern for how schools need to pay more attention to students’ mental health and if they don’t, it can result in a long term dire consequence, stating, “I believe many schools need to get better at realising that mental health is a real thing that requires support.” Furthermore, Rebecca commented on the regard for mental health in schools, saying that, “Mental health is often ‘brushed off’ as ‘teenage problems’ in most high schools.” In addition to this, Rebecca concluded, “Schools should work closely with those concerned to make school not as daunting. Support makes everything that much easier. There is a correlation between stress and mental health as I am a firm believer that stress levels can negatively affect one’s mental health.”
Many people believe that in order to resolve the problem, schools should introduce intervention in order to help make the process of school easier on those with mental health problems and reduce the stigma attached to mental health disorders. Schools should aim to adopt a mental health support officer to ensure help is specifically given to those struggling. Peace Ajibade (16) added her perspective, stating that, “Schools have very high expectations of us. They always want us to achieve a certain grade and get into a particular university. But it puts a lot of stress on us because we have to meet their standards.” Peace also stated that such factors as these would be difficult to meet if an individual is struggling with depression and anxiety. That if they do not meet their expectations then there’s a “sort of feeling of failure and worthlessness.” And that feelings such as these build up as we grow older and as more standards are set. Peace also expressed her distaste towards the matter, saying, “I’d hate to think what would happen when that person has had enough.”
This is proof that through talks and opinions, discussions on mental health are rising to change the dilemma. The Redbridge Youth Council have begun a movement from their Make your Mark 2016 campaign and one of their many campaigns include mental health and how services are going to be improved and will challenge stereotypes on the said subject. Mental health education is also going to be made compulsory to tackle the issue and eliminate the perspective of demeaning individuals who suffer from any mental health disorders.
Hamna Kashif - Ursuline Academy Ilford
