How to improve mental health in schools - A guide

A graph showing an increase in overall school wellbeing and happiness

Mental health and wellbeing in UK schools matter more than ever. By 2023, the UK government has plans to bring nearly 400 mental health support teams into the nation’s schools and colleges.

Many people agree on the value of prioritising mental health in schools. However, there’s confusion about the best way to improve it.

This guide explores the importance of mental health in schools for pupils, teachers, and administrators. It also outlines some tips for improving mental health in schools for people of all ages.

Mental health in UK schools

86% of teachers have noted an increase in low self-esteem among primary and secondary pupils

The latest data on pupil wellbeing in the UK explains the government’s increased investment in mental health aids. The scale of mental health problems can be illustrated by these statistics for parents, teachers, and administrators to keep in mind:

86 per cent of teachers have noted an increase in low self-esteem among primary and secondary pupils
76 per cent of teachers said they’ve seen a rise in depression among primary and secondary pupils
68 per cent of teachers have witnessed an increase in anger among primary and secondary pupils
72 per cent of teachers have noticed an increase in self-harm among secondary pupils
61 per cent of teachers have seen an increase in suicidal thoughts among secondary pupils
56 per cent of teachers have noticed an increase in eating difficulties among secondary pupils

Mental health issues among primary and secondary pupils also contribute to issues for university students.

The Office for National Statistics reveals that 37 per cent of first-year university students experience symptoms of anxiety or depression. For the general population aged 16 to 29, only 22 per cent struggle with the same conditions.

The Office for National Statistics reveals that 37 per cent of first-year university students experience symptoms of anxiety or depression.

Effects of poor mental health in schools

The consequences are dire when pupils of any age face mental health difficulties. The following are some of the most well-known adverse effects associated with mental health issues in schools:

Consequences for pupils

Poor academic performance
Increased likelihood of dropping out of school
Diminished relationships between peers and adults

Consequences for adults

Diminished teacher-pupil and parent-child relationships
Increased stress for teachers and parents
Increased risk of mental health challenges among teachers and parents

Consequences for communities

Communities suffer when pupils are unable to complete school, gain valuable skills, and contribute to the economy

Improving mental health in schools

Sometimes, what pupils suffering from poor mental health need the most is to know that someone cares about them and wants to listen to them.

Many unfavourable outcomes can result from mental health problems in schools. However, there’s still good news.

Because more teachers, head teachers, and administrators care about learning how to help with mental health in schools, more resources and suggestions for improvement exist.

Here are some of the most well-known ways of promoting positive mental health in schools and give everyone (children and adults alike) the care they need:

Offer mental health education

The first step to promoting mental health in schools is providing extensive mental health education. Pupils need to know more about common mental health conditions and mental illness symptoms.

Increased education can destigmatise mental health challenges. A lack of stigma makes it easier for those who are struggling to seek assistance without feeling ashamed.

Increased education also gives pupils and adults the language they need to identify and explain their experiences.

Encourage socialisation

Insufficient socialisation opportunities can worsen mental health struggles. Pupils who can’t regularly spend time with their peers (without worrying about completing school assignments) may be more prone to mental health challenges.

The COVID-19 pandemic shone a brighter light on this issue. For example, this systematic review found that children and adolescents were more likely to experience higher rates of depression and anxiety after enforced isolation ended.

Evaluate current mental health needs

To improve mental health in schools, administrators and headteachers must first understand the current state of mental health among pupils, teachers, and parents. Using tools like surveys and interviews will help those in charge of schools to understand current mental health needs and which areas need improvement.

Invest in mental health training for adults

It’s not enough to educate pupils on mental health challenges. The adults in their lives — parents, teachers, headteachers, etc. — must also receive ongoing mental health education.

If adults aren’t educated on common conditions, symptoms, and management options, they won’t have the skills to offer mental health support to pupils and protect them from the consequences of mental health problems.

Implement open-door policies

Sometimes, what pupils suffering from poor mental health need the most is to know that someone cares about them and wants to listen to them.

When teachers, headteachers, and other adults in a school have open-door policies, they create a safer environment for their pupils. If more young people feel safe and able to express their needs and concerns to adults, it’s easier for them to improve.

Encourage better physical health

Poor physical health can contribute to or worsen mental health. People with mental health issues are also more likely to suffer from chronic health conditions like heart disease.

To improve their mental health, pupils need regular opportunities to exercise and eat healthfully at school.

If these pillars of health are neglected, it doesn’t matter how much mental health education pupils receive. They’ll still be missing critical pieces of the puzzle.

Practise positive discipline

Students' discipline also contributes to their mental health and wellbeing in school. If they are frequently punished and berated by adults, they might be more prone to challenges like depression or anxiety.

Adults should practise positive discipline and work to understand why pupils behave in specific ways. This approach can improve behaviour. It also shows pupils that their teachers and other adults care about them and want them to succeed.

Offer teachers mental health support

If teachers’ mental health suffers, they’re less able to assist their pupils and create a positive school environment. Teachers should also have access to good mental health care, including therapy and mindfulness resources.

Measure pupil mental health with Wellbeing Tracker

One of the best ways to improve mental health in schools is through regular monitoring. Satchel Pulse’s Wellbeing Tracker automatically sends surveys and collates data to help you monitor wellbeing and mental health over time, allowing schools to effectively support mental health.

Find out more today.

Topics

Mental health in UK schools
Effects of poor mental health in schools
Improving mental health in schools
Measure pupil mental health with Wellbeing Tracker