Tips for Teachers

Mental health tips Counselling Tips for teachers and educators, youth group leaders, and school staff on how to offer mental health support.  

Students and pupils who are experiencing distress are among those in our community who require and can greatly benefit from various forms of personal assistance. The distress faced by these students also presents a challenge for those who wish to offer support. While mental health professionals, school administrators, and security personnel play an active role in school or university communities, they may not always be present during distressing situations, such as in dining halls, classrooms, residence halls, or other campus locations. Therefore, it is crucial for all community members to have a fundamental understanding of how they can best support a student in distress. These Counselling Tips for teachers and educators might help.

When someone in our community appears to be in need, it is important for us to know how to extend a helping hand. The Counsellor can guide you through various ways to engage with distressed members of the community.

Here are some basic ideas to keep in mind when interacting with a student in distress:

• Keep it simple. Be clear, concise, and direct in your communication. You don’t have to be a mental health professional to lend a hand. If further guidance is required, reach out to the Counsellor after your initial consultation.
• Listen to the problem. Issues that cause enough distress to raise concerns in others are rarely insignificant. In fact, what may appear trivial to others can be of great significance to the person experiencing distress. Listening to them without judgment can be an essential part of offering help.
• Be honest. It is important to express your concerns openly. It’s often best to address your concerns directly, without judgment or fear. This creates an opportunity to connect the individual with additional support resources.
• Offer assistance. Encourage the student to continue the conversation and seek help from others. A respectful and collaborative approach can be a meaningful experience for someone in distress.
• Follow up. If appropriate and if it doesn’t pose a threat to you, stay engaged and maintain communication with both the student and any mental health professionals you have consulted. Providing “continuity of care” is extremely beneficial for everyone involved: the student, the mental health professional, and yourself.

If you would like to discuss a situation you have encountered, please contact your school or reach out to us here at Acorn Therapy.