Schools Need to Protect Students Physically – And Mentally

Dealing with increased expectations, social pressures both in-person and online and astronomical education costs, all while simultaneously facing major life choices and changes has led to a dangerous epidemic of mental, emotional and behavioral health issues in America’s youth. During college, a majority of students are living on their own for the first time, possibly in an entirely new state or area where they don’t know anyone. They spend nearly half of the time that they are awake on classwork, and the school day never really ends until breaks for holidays and in between semesters. Struggling to keep up with the workload and these significant lifestyle adjustments has become the norm. While they may frequently be surrounded by a lot of people, many students often feel quietly isolated and lack meaningful connection with others. Compounding the problem, the pressures to succeed and fit in make these feelings hard to express, and life becomes even more confusing and discouraging. This is causing record rates of anxiety and depression that greatly impact students’ quality of life. As an adolescent or young adult goes through these challenges, parents may write off symptoms of mental disorders as “growing pains” or “going through a phase.” However, when developing mental health disorders are left untreated, they can result in dire consequences that impact the entire family in the long run. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is th...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Addiction Alcoholism Anxiety and Panic Bullying Children and Teens College Depression Eating Disorders Friends General Perfectionism Policy and Advocacy Student Therapist Students Violence and Aggression Life Transition Men Source Type: blogs