Despite growing conversations about mental health, little has been done to provide proper mental health support in schools. For too long, schools have focused mainly on discipline, managing students’ behaviour instead of understanding the root causes of their distress. It is time for schools to build healthier relationships with students and invest in their mental well-being.
Most children start school around age seven and remain in that environment until college or university. This makes it crucial to create school settings where open talks about mental health and wellness are encouraged. In societies where mental health is often stigmatized, schools should foster a supportive atmosphere. Mental health is as important as physical health and strongly affects students’ well-being and academic success. Therefore, mental health education and awareness must become priorities for school authorities.
Schools are where children learn not only academics but also social skills. It is natural for schools to teach students how to talk about their mental health. While some find it easy to share their feelings, many hesitate due to fear of judgement or cultural taboos. To fight this stigma, schools should normalize discussions about mental health. Alongside academic lessons and social manners, schools need to teach students how to express their emotions and ask for help when needed. Without this, students may hide their struggles until they reach a crisis point. Schools have a responsibility to prepare students better to avoid such outcomes.
Education must take a holistic approach. Bangladesh’s education system has largely focused on rote learning and has made little progress in recent years. Instead, schools should understand students’ emotional and psychological needs. Students who behave disruptively or struggle academically are often misunderstood as lazy or difficult. In reality, they may be dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or stress. Schools should stop punishing these students and instead provide support that addresses these underlying issues. This is especially important in high schools, where academic pressure can add to students’ difficulties.
To promote mental health, schools must recognize that each child is different, including their emotional maturity. A few months of teacher training in counseling is not enough. Schools should hire professional mental health experts to offer proper support. Regular seminars and workshops on mental health and wellness can raise awareness among students.
Mental health education must go beyond motivational posters and pamphlets. Students need to know that their feelings are normal and that help is available. Counseling helps students understand their emotions, resolve conflicts, and communicate openly. It empowers them to assess their needs and find positive solutions for challenges at home and school.
Simple steps can make a difference. Science classes could include lessons on how the brain works and why we feel certain emotions. Language classes could encourage students to write about their feelings to improve emotional expression.
Public schools often lack resources for mental health programs. Some private schools have the means but fail to act. All schools must acknowledge the importance of mental health services and allocate funding so every student can access the help they need.
Prioritizing mental health education can teach students to manage stress and develop empathy. Early education on mental health equips young people with skills to overcome difficulties and prevents future crises. It also helps build a positive relationship with their own minds.
A proactive approach to mental health creates valuable life skills and emotional intelligence. This prepares students for real-world challenges and fosters a culture of openness about mental health and seeking help.
To understand the challenges and solutions, we spoke with Dr. Wasima Rahman, psychiatrist and mental health consultant at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University.
Dr. Rahman says mental health is stigmatized due to lack of awareness. Early education through schools, media, and public campaigns is key to changing attitudes. Schools play a vital role in social development and early intervention can reduce adult mental health issues. She calls for mandatory mental health training in teacher education to help teachers recognize when students need support.
Dr. Rahman emphasizes that children should learn about mental health from a young age. Activities like writing, painting, and plays supervised by mental health professionals can help students express their feelings. Simple tools like a “feelings board” where students share their emotions daily can foster safe communication. Teachers should have active discussions about stress, anxiety, and academic pressure so students feel secure in sharing their true emotions.
It is clear that mental health support must become an integral part of education. Schools have the power to shape healthier minds and brighter futures by making mental wellness a priority.
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