Reason 4: Mental Health IssuesMental Health, described as a person’s psychological and emotional well-being, can include a multitude of conditions. Depression is one of the more common mental health issues seen in classrooms, especially as students progress into higher education.
In a classroom setting, students can experience engagement on three different levels: behavioral engagement, emotional engagement, and cognitive engagement (Wang & Peck, 2013). Mental health is one of many factors that can impact all three of those engagement levels. In one study, researchers came to the conclusion that students with the lowest levels of emotional engagement were the most at risk for mental health problems like depression (Wang & Peck 2013). Common Signs and Examples
Potential InterventionsAll students would benefit from promoting engagement at all three of the aforementioned levels: behavioral engagement, emotional engagement, and cognitive engagement. It is important, however, for educators to also remain attuned to students who have low levels of emotional engagement because of the relationship between emotional engagement and mental health. For example, these students may turn in their homework or complete assignments but will rarely be emotionally invested in the school or classroom. Students who fall into this category are at risk for mental health issues like depression as they progress through school (Wang & Peck 2013).
Additional Resources Relating to Mental Health IssuesSubstance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration
More information on a national suicide hotline, including what to expect during and after the call. Principal Leadership Resource Article Resource found on the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) website presenting measures for schools and principals to take, as well as additional resources for mental health. |