Integrate mental health into the curriculum – Dr Kavita Lohiya Bajpai, Education Innovator & Thought Leader, K-12 Education & Skill Development, Mumbai

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Interviewed by: kakani Veera Brahmam, Editor in Chief, Brainfeed Magazine

Dr Kavita Lohiya Bajpai has been in the field of education for almost two and a half decades. She has been leading several initiatives as an expert, innovator & advisor for various projects aimed at improving the quality of education, skill development & gender equality.

Q: The pandemic triggered several mental health problems. How long will it take for students to completely get over these scars?

The time required for students to fully recover from these scars can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances. Factors such as pre-existing mental health conditions, access to support systems, resilience, and the availability of appropriate resources can all influence the recovery process. While some students may gradually heal over time, others may require professional intervention and ongoing support. It is crucial to prioritize mental health services and create a supportive environment for students, as this will greatly contribute to their healing and overall well-being.

Q: How has the relationship between students and teachers changed?

The shift to remote and hybrid learning models necessitated by the pandemic introduced new dynamics to this relationship. Traditional face-to-face interactions were replaced with virtual platforms, which created a certain level of distance and limited personal connections. However, this change also fostered a greater reliance on technology for communication and collaboration, allowing for more flexible interactions and access to resources.

Teachers have had to adapt their teaching methods to engage students in virtual environments, while students have had to become more independent and self-directed in their learning. As a result, the teacher-student relationship has evolved to incorporate digital tools and a more collaborative approach to education.

Q: How does one support when a staff member is concerned with mental health and well being of a pupil?

When a staff member is concerned about the mental health and well-being of a pupil, there are several ways to provide support:

Active listening: Create a safe and non-judgmental space for the staff member to express concerns and thoughts about the pupil’s mental health.

Encourage communication: Facilitate open dialogue between the staff member and appropriate professionals, such as school counsellors or mental health advisors, who can provide guidance and expertise.

Provide resources: Offer information about available mental health resources and support services within the school or community, including counselling services, helplines, or external mental health organizations.

Foster collaboration: Work together with the staff members to develop a plan of action, involving necessary stakeholders, to ensure the pupil receives the support they need.

Professional development: Offer training and workshops to staff members to enhance their understanding of mental health issues and equip them with appropriate strategies for supporting students.

Maintain confidentiality: Respect the privacy and confidentiality of the staff member and the pupil involved, adhering to relevant policies and guidelines.

By acknowledging and addressing these concerns, schools can create a supportive environment that prioritizes the mental health and well-being of both staff and students.

How is learning about mental health and well-being incorporated into the curriculum?

Incorporating learning about mental health and well-being into the curriculum is essential for promoting students’ overall well-being.

This can be achieved through various means:

Health Education: Including dedicated lessons on mental health, emotional well-being, stress management, and building resilience.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL): Integrating SEL programs that teach self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.

Cross-curricular Approach: Infusing mental health topics across different subjects, such as literature, psychology, biology, and sociology, to provide a holistic understanding.

Guest Speakers and Workshops: Inviting mental health professionals, counsellors, or individuals with lived experiences to share their knowledge and experiences with students.

School-wide Initiatives: Organizing mental health awareness campaigns, assemblies, and events to raise awareness and reduce stigma.

Q: Tell us about the importance of establishing mental health advisory panels and counsellors.

Establishing mental health advisory panels and counsellors to support children in their mental health issues is of utmost importance. These dedicated professionals play a crucial role in promoting and safeguarding the well-being of students. They provide a safe and confidential space for children to express their emotions, concerns, and challenges.

By offering guidance, counselling and therapeutic interventions, they help students navigate their mental health issues effectively. Moreover, mental health advisory panels contribute to destigmatizing mental health problems, raising awareness, and implementing preventive measures. By addressing mental health needs early on, these support systems can empower children to develop resilience, cope with stress, and thrive academically and personally.

By integrating mental health education throughout the curriculum, students gain knowledge, skills, and attitudes that support their mental well-being and enable them to support others effectively.

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