WISS NEWS

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is "a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community."

This definition leads us to consider mental health as something broader than the mere absence of mental health problems. Mental Health is associated with many of the leading causes of disease and disability in our society. Promoting and protecting our community's mental health and well-being  is essential for an individual's physical  and social/emotional well-being. On the other hand, mental well-being can help strengthen the positive protective factors and reduce risk factors for mental health. It can also promote the productivity of community members (students, teachers, and parents).

Every community should endeavor that its members:

• Feel confident in themselves;

• Can express a range of emotions appropriately; 

• Can make and maintain positive relationships with others;

• Cope with the stresses of everyday life; 

• Manage times of stress and be able to deal with change.

Mental health is vital to a student's well-being and should be taken seriously. At the Western International School of Shanghai (WISS), we strive to create an environment that supports our students' mental well-being by providing support and resources.

We aim to promote positive mental health and well-being for our school community, especially for our students, for whom mental health is a crucial factor in their overall well-being and can affect their learning and achievement. 

We offer counseling services for students going through difficult times or needing someone to talk with. Our counselors receive regular training and can speak with students in a safe space and provide support. From this perspective, our role is to ensure that students can manage times of change and stress and that they are supported to reach their potential or access help when needed. Learning about what students can do to maintain positive mental health, what affects their mental health, or how they can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues are also part of our role.

Our school also offers a variety of clubs, organizations, and activities that provide positive outlets for social interaction and self-expression. We host events focused on mental health awareness throughout the year and provide opportunities for students to talk about their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

How can we identify students' mental health status, and how should it be addressed?

Below are some warning signs or behaviors that could be present in students:

AREA : Level of functioning

WARNING SIGNS  

•             May appear disorganized and unreliable  

•             May be denying any problems or responsibilities  

 

AREA : Cognitive and academic functioning  

WARNING SIGNS

•             Reduced concentration and learning capacity  

•             Unable to prioritize tasks  

•             Difficulty meeting lesson and school requirements  

•             Conflict in group work or situations  

•             Inconsistent behavior  

•             Worrying or anxious thoughts  

 

AREA: Social functioning  

WARNING SIGNS

•             Limited integration in team processes  

•             Conflict with peers/staff  

•             May be isolated  

•             Low-level use of written, verbal or physical abuse (e.g., pushing or  

               shoving)  

•             Concerning or unwelcome comments of a sexual nature or  

               relationship  

•             Out-of-context behavior  

 

AREA: Coping behaviors  

WARNING SIGNS

•             Poor coping skills  

•             May be demanding of others to find a solution  

•             Inappropriate, changeable emotional expression  

•             Damage to property  

•             Intentional theft  

•             Impulse control problems may lead to high-risk behaviors.  

 

 

 AREA:  Psychological functioning

WARNING SIGNS

•             Feel out of control or have panic attacks  

•             Increase/decrease sleep  

•             May appear chaotic  

•             Thoughts of escaping  

•             Depression  

•             Suicide thoughts  

•             Guilt feelings  

•             Anger/blaming others for how they feel  

•             History of harm to self or others  

•             High anxiety, distress/agitation

What can we do as parents?

Parents can play an important role in supporting their child's mental health. Parents need to be involved in their child's day-to-day life and provide a source of care and communication. Here are some ways parents can support their children's mental health:

• Talk openly and honestly with your children about their experiences, emotions, and thoughts. Create a safe space for open and honest communication between you and your child.

• Pay attention to your child's behavior and reactions to situations. Be aware of changes in mood or behavior that could indicate potential mental health issues.

• Make sure your child has access to mental health resources and services, like counseling. You can contact your child's school to assist with determining the best resources for your child's needs.

• Offer support and understanding. Let your child know you are there for them and that you understand their feelings.

• Encourage healthy lifestyle habits like proper nutrition, plenty of sleep, and exercise.

• Set realistic expectations and reasonable behavior limits while allowing your child to explore and make mistakes.

• Create a home environment that is supportive, loving, and understanding.

Overall, it is vital for parents to be present and communicate with their children in order to help further their social and emotional development. With patience, understanding, and open communication, parents can help create an environment where their children can thrive.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

Western International School in Shanghai.