5 things every student needs to do for better mental health

5 things every student needs to do for better mental health

1. PRIORITISE SELF-CARE Taking care of yourself is essential to preserving mental well-being. Students should be urged to prioritize self-care practices including getting adequate sleep, eating a healthy food, and working out on a regular basis.  Developing mindfulness and relaxation skills can also aid in lowering stress and enhancing overall health.  

2. BUILD A SUPPORT NETWORK  A robust support system is essential for mental health. Students should be encouraged to establish connections with trusted teachers, counselors, peers, and family members. It can be comforting to have someone to chat to and share feelings with when feeling anxious or alone.  

When family members are the main reason why teenagers are experiencing more mental stress, it's critical that students get help from a reliable adult. This adult may be a teacher, a close neighbor, an extended family member, or a family friend, and they could be able to step in and help if necessary.  

3. MANAGE ACADEMIC PRESSURE AND SEEK BALANCE Academic pressure is often intense in India, with a focus on achieving academic excellence. Students and their parents need to be encouraged to seek a balanced approach to education that values holistic development. Encourage students to pursue extracurricular activities, hobbies, and interests that bring joy and fulfillment, alongside their academic pursuits. This balanced approach can alleviate stress and foster overall mental well-being  

4. PRACTICE POSITIVE THINKING Fostering a growth mindset can help students approach challenges with resilience and optimism. Negative thoughts can have a negative impact on mental health. Encourage students to challenge negative self-talk and replace it with positive affirmations that can be said in front of the mirror every morning and night. Even 10 to 20 minutes of meditation a day can go a long way to tackle negative self-talk.   

5. SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP WHEN NEEDED  In India, getting professional assistance for mental health problems is still more stigmatized. Instructors need to make parents and students aware of the value of counseling and mental health in order to try and reduce this.