Importance of Mental Health

Did you know that, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, 20% of youth between the ages 13-18 live with a mental health condition and 8% of youth have an anxiety disorder?  What is even scarier to me is that according to the same data reports, nearly 50% of youth between ages 8 – 15 didn’t receive any mental health services in the last year.

If you stop to really reflect on that, it would be unheard of for people to be ill with a physical illness and not receive any health care.  So that brings us to the question of why people aren’t getting the help they need.  “Many people feel embarrassed or ashamed of symptoms because our society places illogical taboos on mental health issues over physical conditions,” said clinical psychologist Nikki Massey-Hastings, PsyD.

This can be seen even in the school setting.  When someone walks back into school with a cast or brace after breaking a bone or having ACL reconstructive surgery, other students will rush up to offer sympathy and support.  When students return after being out with the flu, classmates will welcome them back and ask how they are feeling.  But it isn’t always that easy when someone returns after being out due to a mental illness.  Sometimes it is because the students returning are worried about being judged by others and sometimes it is because their classmates are worried that they might say something stupid so they refrain from saying anything at all. 

This cartoon shows some of the things that people have said to those with mental health issues, but we would never dream of saying to someone who was sick with a physical illness.  With all these barriers, it is no wonder that mental health goes untreated so often.  So what can you say to someone after they have missed school due to mental illness?  Welcome back.  I’m glad to see you again.  I’m here for you.  I care about you.  You are important.  You were missed.  Actually, let’s be honest, that is what we all want to hear from those around us if we have been gone and that simple act of compassion can help minimize the stress and stigma and make a transition back to school more positive.

It is important to me that all students know that you can talk to me, a teacher or another staff member because every adult at WKHS is here to help support you.  If you have been feeling down, crying a lot, can’t sleep or facing another concern that is worrying you, please know that there is help available.  Don’t be afraid to seek help.  People will understand, there are plenty of resources of support available and even if you don’t have something significant going on you can always just stop by my office to chat – I look forward to that.