How to Help Young Students Through Difficult Times
Source: @neonbrand
According to recent research, one in five teens between the ages of twelve and eighteen suffer from at least one diagnosed mental illness.
Conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral problems are all becoming much more widespread among young people as the mental health crisis continues to grow in the United States.
If you are a parent or work closely with children, you will be understandably worried about this alarming trend. You may have already witnessed first-hand the devastating effects these illnesses can have on young people. So, how can you help young students who are going through difficult times, either at school or at home?
Read on to find out.
Notice the signs that a child may be struggling
The first thing you can do to help is to notice the signs that someone may be struggling. Look out for:
Inconsistent attendance
Lack of interest in schools or friends
Sudden change in attitude
Negative relationships with teachers
Low literacy or numeracy skills
If you spot any of these signs, you should speak to them or mention this to someone that the child will trust and who may be able to help, such as a counselor, teacher, parent, or whoever can help the child move forward.
Nominate a person of trust
If you have identified a student as vulnerable, the first action afterward is to nominate a person of trust within the establishment to look out for them and offer support.
Ideally, you want to select a member of staff whom the student already has a strong connection with so that they feel comfortable talking and sharing with them. This person will then be their “go-to” for times of emotional stress or when they feel overwhelmed.
Become a school psychologist
For those who really want to make a difference in the lives of students who are experiencing difficult times, you may want to consider getting a School Psychology Credential.
Once qualified as a school psychologist, you will be able to play a vital role in the lives of vulnerable children throughout their school years and actively help them to navigate these challenging times. These types of degree programs can be carried out while you continue to work and can be completed in as little as 3 years. With this kind of degree, you could help not just students but teachers who feel overwhelmed too. Be there for all those who are within the school environment and ensure that you are helping to make it a positive place.
Create a calm space
Sometimes vulnerable students need somewhere to go where they can feel safe and comfortable, especially during times of stress or anxiety. This is particularly important if the child in question tends to lash out or become physical when they experience difficulties.
You must clarify that this calm space is not a punishment but simply somewhere for them to go and regain control of their feelings and actions. Providing furniture for sensory rooms is a great option for creating a calm space for students. Depending on the age of the student, this could be a room outside of the classroom or in a quiet corner.
Establish boundaries
When dealing with vulnerable children, you must set clear boundaries. Many at-risk students will not have any boundaries at home, or they will have excessively strict ones, both of which make having them at school even more important.
Aim to set consistent and firm boundaries so that the students know what to expect and what is expected of them but try to ensure that these boundaries make the child feel safe and supported.
It can become all too easy to grow attached to a vulnerable child or teen, but you must remain professional at all times.