The life of a student involves learning, practicing and solidifying new concepts year and over again. The student life is phase which develops one’s personality; it is a roller coaster ride of emotions and is the happiest phase of the lifetime. Besides the aspect of Education, another aspect of Competition also exists. It plays a very significant role in every student’s life and beyond. A student when subjected to healthy competition can show signs of betterment in academics and co- curricular activities alongwith improvement in Confidence, Aptitude and Personality. But a not-so-healthy competition can adversely affect the mental health of a student.

ROLE OF MENTAL HEALTH:

The role of mental health at any phase of life is as important as other aspects of health. This fact has been realised by the society in last few years only after the breakthrough on understanding the stigma attached to it. Stable mental health can help the student to be more attentive leading to better grades and personality. But unfortunately, 8 in 100 students experience a serious mental health disease , 8% teens have anxiety disorder and only 1 in 5 affected students receive proper care and guidance. Mental Health Disorders can affect classroom learning and social interactions, both of which are critical to the success of students.

CAUSES OF POOR MENTAL HEALTH :

The student faces a lot of situations in school , college life and beyond which shapes their mind and personality and affects the mental health. Conditions which lead to adverse affect on a student's mental health involve

 • Peer pressure

• Unhealthy Competition

• Substance Abuse

• Stress

• Bad Environment at home

• Physical Health Problems

• Lack of Coping Skills

Many of these factors lead to serious conditions in students such as Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) , Schizophrenia, eating problems like Anorexia Nervosa ,Bulimia and Sleep Difficulties. But these conditions are treatable. Early detection and intervention can lead to improvement in the students.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS :

The parents and teachers are the first ones who can identify the symptoms and can be the pioneers towards the health of a child. Different students have different symptoms but some common signs can be identified. The symptoms in a student facing a mental condition are :

• Change in Attitude

• Hopelessness

• Emotional Outbursts in any form like Aggression, Crying or silence

• Sleep problems

• Sudden change in Weight

• Persistent pattern of irritable mood

• Lethargy

• Suicide attempts in severe cases

• lack of interest in activities that he/she enjoyed earlier

• avoiding social situations and at times friends

• anxirty can manifest in forms of nausea, stomach etc physical situations

These listed symptoms can be direct indications of a mental health condition which is most of the times overlooked by the parents and teachers which is the biggest reason for the delayed diagnosis and hence greater repercussions.

ROLE OF PARENTS AND TEACHERS IN THE TREATMENT PROCESS :

Different mental disorders follow a different courses of treatment but the support of teachers and parents can help the students a lot to tackle such conditions.

Role of parents ;

The best way to get help - is to ask for it'.

The parents should not try to suppress the change in behavioral pattern due to the social stigmas as it will worsen the condition. Parents should try to maintain a healthy relationship wherein the child is able to express his/her emotions, praise the child when they perform well and recognise the efforts they have put in. Help them to develop the friendly environment at home which will allow the child to feel safe and protected. Help them set realistic goals . Being aware of the social media usage of your child is very important to keep them away from inappropriate content. Be a role model by speaking about your own mental health and feelings. It is correctly said , “Education begins from home”.

Role of School and teachers:

The teachers are the parents in school! They are the guiding light of a student’s attitude and personality.

1. Schools can provide proper Counselling by a professional counsellor in a proper schedule.

2. Teachers should educate and speak about mental health to students to eliminate the social stigma.

3. Promote physical well being of students through sports and utilise their energy in constructive work.

4. Creating a safe environment which is BULLYING FREE and RAGGING FREE.

5. Teach Coping Skills to students on how to respond to specific situations.

6. Incorporate positive attitude through motivational lectures .

7. Involve the families in every step of a student’s development.

8.Organising seminars and lectures to promote awareness about mental health.

9.Communicate with the students regularly to know about their behavior and attitude.

CONCLUSION:

Mental health is no more a taboo in the society and has been accepted as the disorder which requires specific treatments and precautions. Talking to your students and children will definitely make a difference. Together we can help our developing youth to be healthy – both mentally and physically. WhatsApp Tutortot at 8289092379 for any questions, we are here to help.