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<h1 style="text-align: center;">Students Mental Health in Schools </h1> <img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRDR4yy59Du77p45V6oPZTPTVT_oXJYKOWn6w&usqp=CAU" alt="" width="409" height="272" /> Having a positive environment <a href="https://oakleyassociatesconsulting.com/mental-health-in-higher-education/" target="_blank">mental health in schools</a> is important to helping students learn and thrive. It can help reduce symptoms and remove stigma. It can also create a positive environment that promotes learning and social interaction. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 1 in 5 adolescents experiences a serious mental disorder. These disorders can affect students' ability to interact with others, concentrate, and have positive relationships. Symptoms of ADHD, depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders can also lead to difficulties with self-control, isolation, and difficulty following directions. Many school staff report that students with mental health issues are not recognized or diagnosed. Often, schools are not alerted about problems until they are too late to help. In addition, the school may not be willing to put strategies in place to address the problem. This can make it difficult for families to access services. Developing a strong, collaborative relationship with school staff and community providers is the best way to address the full spectrum of student needs. A mental health literacy approach increases awareness of early signs of mental health problems and where to seek help. The approach is similar to training programs for adults. A systematic review and meta-analysis found that the approach works. The approach is designed to increase the teachers' knowledge of the early signs of mental health problems and the locations where they can be treated. It also increases their ability to recognize signs of mental health issues in their students. A school environment can be positively impacted by having a teacher who understands how to identify a student with mental health problems. By identifying a student's needs, the school can ensure that the student has access to the services they need. The teacher will also know the proper terminology to use to talk with the student. The teacher may also be willing to put strategies in place that will benefit the student. A MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) approach is designed to meet the full spectrum of student needs. It is best when a partnership is coordinated by school-employed mental health professionals. These professionals can reduce scheduling conflicts, transportation issues, and many other barriers that often make it difficult for students to seek help. School-employed mental health professionals also reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues. For example, many teachers and administrators incorrectly attribute ADHD behaviors to non-compliance. Teachers should be aware of the symptoms of ADHD and understand that they can lead to isolation, difficulty following instructions, and difficulty staying engaged. Teachers should also know when to escalate a situation. An open-door policy is a key component of creating a positive school environment. This policy encourages students to participate in decision making and reinforces their unique contributions. Teachers can also reward positive behavior and discourage negative behavior. In addition, schools should create an environment where students are comfortable speaking up about their concerns. The ideal school environment promotes a positive learning environment and encourages students to feel included. An open-door policy also reinforces a positive school culture and helps students learn the school's culture. Schools can also celebrate mental health awareness days to show students that they are not alone.