Why is mental health important for students?

About the mental health of students

In recent years, the issue of mental health among students has gained significant attention and recognition. The well-being and emotional state of students have become crucial considerations in educational environments. Academic pressure, social challenges, and the rapidly changing world have contributed to the growing prevalence of mental health issues among students. Stress, anxiety, depression, and other related conditions can have a profound impact on students’ overall functioning, academic performance, and quality of life. As a result, schools alongside mental health professionals are increasingly focusing on creating supportive and inclusive environments that prioritize mental health awareness, provide appropriate resources, and promote well-being among students. Addressing and nurturing the mental health needs of students is essential for their personal development, educational success, and future prospects.

About the mental health of students (Source: ISSP)

>> Read more: School health service at international schools in Ho Chi Minh City

Why is mental health important for students?

Recognizing the importance of mental health for students is crucial in creating supportive environments that address their needs holistically, promote resilience, and foster their overall growth and success. Some of the reasons why mental health is important for students include:

• Academic Performance: A student’s mental health directly impacts their ability to concentrate, learn, and perform academically. 
• Emotional Well-being: Maintaining good mental health helps students cope with these stressors, build resilience, and manage their emotions in a healthy manner.
• Social Relationships: Positive mental health enhances communication skills, empathy, and the ability to form meaningful connections with peers and teachers. It also enables students to navigate conflicts, seek support, and engage in collaborative activities effectively.
• Personal Development: Mental health plays a vital role in the personal growth and development of students.
• Long-Term Well-being: By promoting self-care, stress management, and healthy coping mechanisms, students are better equipped to face the demands of adulthood, including higher education, career choices, and personal relationships.

>> Read more: How Schools Ensure Student Success

Why is mental health important for students? (Source: ISSP)

Common mental health problems among students

Anxiety disorders

Anxiety disorders refer to a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive and persistent feelings of fear, worry, and apprehension. These disorders can significantly impact a person’s daily life, causing distress and interfering with their ability to function normally. Some common types of anxiety disorders such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), Specific Phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), etc. 

Depression

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, and a range of physical and emotional symptoms. It affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, and can significantly impact their daily life. Depression can affect cognitive function, making it challenging to concentrate, make decisions, and remember things. This can impact school performance.

Eating disorders

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterized by disturbances in eating behaviors and a preoccupation with body weight, shape, and food. It can not only have severe physical consequences, such as malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, gastrointestinal issues, and organ damage but it also impacts emotional well-being, social functioning, and overall quality of life. 

What are the causes and contributing factors to student mental health issues?

• Academic stress: Academic stress is a significant reason for mental health concerns among students. The pressure to excel academically, meet high expectations, and perform well in exams can lead to elevated levels of stress and anxiety.
• Peer pressure: Peer pressure refers to the influence that peers, children of similar age or social group, can have on a student’s thoughts, behaviors, and decisions. It is a common phenomenon experienced during adolescence and can significantly impact a student’s mental health.
• Social media influence: Websites and apps such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have a significant impact on how children think, behave, and make decisions. It is important for kids to understand that social media can affect their mental health.
• Family dynamics: Conflict, poor communication, neglect, or abuse within the family can significantly impact a student’s emotional and psychological well-being. Students may experience feelings of stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, or depression when confronted with negative family dynamics.

>> Read more: How To Support Parents Of ESL Students

What are the behavioral signs of mental health issues in students?

Some common behavioral signs that may indicate mental health issues in students include changes in academic performance, social withdrawal, emotional instability, changes in sleeping patterns, changes in eating habits, substance abuse, aggressive or disruptive behavior, self-harm or suicidal ideation, excessive worry or fear, etc.  

What preventive measures can be implemented to support student mental health?

• Encourage Physical Activity: Encourage children to engage in regular physical activity. Physical exercise can boost mood, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Encourage activities such as outdoor play, bike riding, swimming, or dancing.
• Foster Strong Relationships: Help children build strong and positive relationships with family members, friends, and peers. Encourage open communication, active listening, and empathy within these relationships.
• Promote Healthy Sleep Habits: Ensure children get adequate sleep by establishing consistent bedtime routines and creating a calm and comfortable sleep environment. Sufficient sleep supports cognitive function and emotional regulation.
• Teach Stress Management Techniques: Teach children simple stress management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or engaging in activities they enjoy. These techniques can help children manage stress and promote relaxation.

>> Read more: Socialization And Play In Early Learning

Education on mental health for students at International School Saigon Pearl

Located in Saigon Pearl residential area, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon Pearl International Preschool and Elementary School (ISSP) is the choice of many parents seeking a high-quality international learning environment for children aged 18 months to 11 years old (Preschool to Grade 5).

Since 2023, ISSP has been officially authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) to offer the IB PYP curriculum, known for its high academic standards. This ensures that ISSP fully meets the global standards of a genuine international school.

>>Read more: How Schools Emphasize Whole Child Development

Education on mental health for students at International School Saigon Pearl (Source: ISSP)

With the educational philosophy of “placing students at the center,” ISSP is committed to nurturing the intellect and soul of students through a balanced educational program that enables comprehensive development and adaptability to a future full of uncertainties. The school’s facilities are modernly invested to meet the students’ needs for both learning and recreational activities. These include a school library with 18,000 English books, specialized rooms for Music and Art, a multi-purpose sports hall, a preschool swimming pool, playgrounds, a football field, and an Innovation Hub that incorporates STEAM, Studio, and Robotics, along with various other well-equipped rooms and resources.

Mental health in children extends beyond the school environment and is significantly influenced by their family life. Recognizing this, International School Saigon Pearl (ISSP) offers individual counseling sessions for parents aimed at fostering exchange and providing support to enhance the well-being of their children. Recent years, many children are being neglected unconsciously as a result of parents or caregivers who are busy working long hours or away on business trips. They are relying on others for their care, substituting their absence with material gifts, and neglecting disciplinary measures due to demanding work schedules. These tendencies can have detrimental consequences for the long-term mental health of the child. Consequently, ISSP places emphasis on organizing counseling sessions specifically for parents to assist them in nurturing their children at home. Furthermore, SPIS works closely with parents to identify any psychological indicators in their children promptly, ensuring timely support is provided when needed.

International School Saigon Pearl is located in Binh Thanh District – warmly welcomes parents and students to visit the campus and gain a deeper understanding of the school’s activities. To schedule an ISSP tour, please contact us through the following phone number and email address:

• Phone: +84 (028) 2222 7788
• Email: admissions@issp.edu.vn

Feel free to reach out to us using the provided contact details to arrange a visit and explore the educational environment at International School Saigon Pearl.