Mental Health Matters

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! Let’s look at what we do to support mental health at BISA. There are a multitude of supports that are implemented to support students’ mental health needs.

A stigma-free environment:

First, we at BISA have created an environment free of stigma which supports discussions concerning mental health development. Such environments can be created by fostering open conversations about mental health supports and their impact on future functioning. We continue to develop stigma-free environments by incorporating lessons that help students develop and strengthen coping and relaxation skills, such as muscle relaxation techniques, problem-solving strategies, or mindfulness-based techniques.

School-Based Counselling Services:

We have a counsellor on board, Dr Rupa Joshi. Students can work with the school counsellors on developing social skills, building coping strategies, and incorporating relaxation techniques as needed. Support can be provided individually or through group-based support.

Accommodations:

We are also able to provide accommodations (e.g., through a 504 accommodation plan or Groves Educational Plan (GEP)) to support their students’ needs, including extended time on testing or testing in smaller environments that may minimise feelings of anxiety that may be related to testing.

Wrap-Around Services:

Lastly, the school coordinates wraparound services in cases where referrals are needed for the most appropriate mental health support for students.

What to look for:

Here are some tips for educators and parents to look out for.

AS TEACHERS WE CAN WATCH OUT FOR FOLLOWING THINGS:

• A sudden or drastic change in the quality of assignments
• A sudden or drastic decline in grades
• Test and performance anxiety
• Withdrawal from interests or from peers Increased irritability
• Low frustration tolerance

PARENTS CAN WATCH OUT THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS IN KIDS

• Trouble sleeping
• Trouble eating or change in eating behaviours/appetite
• Irritability
• Concentration problems
• Ruminating about future events
• Test and performance anxiety
• Loss of interest in hobbies and other activities
• Having low energy
• Statements of self-doubt or low self-esteem (e.g., “I’m so dumb”)
• Withdrawal
• Crying a lot

BENEFITS OF GOOD MENTAL HEALTH

• Reduced anxiety.
• Improved moods.
• Clearer thinking.
• A greater sense of inner peace.
• Increased self-esteem.
• Reduced risk of depression.
• Improved relationships.

Dr Rupa Joshi

Clinical Psychologist/Counsellor