Intentions to Respond and Understand: Teacher's Role in Students' Mental Health
Marianne P. Regulacion
Teachers spend so much time with the students. Nearly half of their daily lives are focused on interacting with the children. Students spend more active time in schools than in home. We can somehow expect that teachers would get to know their students through their habits, expressions, reactions, and how they interact in their classrooms.
Mental health of students is real and can be dangerous. There are many cases of young people who induce self-harm, has panic attacks, or has suicidal tendencies. Children are also susceptible to stress and anxiety. We might not even notice it or we might ignore it, but we need to be sensitive enough and listen to what the students are trying to portray or even say to us. Teachers may feel that they’re in no position to know sensitive matters of the children but they can at least ease and give support to the problems they are facing.
A meaningful relationship with a suitable adult is beneficial for young people. Teachers could play that role for their students. As educators, we also teach by modeling students the right attitude in responding to stress, conflict, or pressure. Students will always see the way we react to things, and they may copy it. We don’t just educate them about the lessons but may imitate us also through our actions. By our positive response, we can help the students determine the right action for the situation they might be in.
We have to listen when students want to be heard about their issues or problems, not with the intent of responding but with the intention of understanding. No matter how relevant it is or not with the subjects they’re taking, it’s also our responsibility to support them in ways we can. We should not just shut them out, being sensitive to somebody else’s situation can bring a lot of use for them.
Just like any other person, teachers should build relationships with their students, building confidence and trust. It is not just the guidance counselor’s role to commend or advise the children, but it will all come first hand to the teachers. Learning the children’s body language or knowing their usual routine, will help us take notice of odd reactions from them. Talk to the students if you notice strange things, for we might not know what’s going on in their minds.
Teacher’s responsibility doesn’t end up in giving daily lessons or assignments. It also extends to empathy and love to the children. Students are young people who are bound to feel stressed or want some attention. Lending your ear with them might ease the pain that is going on their head. Mental health issues are not just for adults, it may also hit the children. It doesn’t choose any age. Just a simple “hello and how are you” could really mean a lot to a student stressing over many things in life. Our sensitivity towards their action may bring a positive outlook for them. Being the bigger person is not bad, it means you are helping more than you were before. Help the children rise, and we will rise with them too.
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