Elton

Things Parents Should Know About Students’ Mental Health Amidst Pandemic: A Teacher’s Perspective By: Elton John E. Palero I have this 10th-grader student who is an achiever for the first two quarters of the school year. He is active and participates well during class discussions, is a leader, and is a good friend to his classmates. Until he started missing classes. At first, he’s saying that there’s a problem with the internet connection. So, I just sent him the lessons and activities he missed. Not knowing that it might be more than that. A few weeks later and he stops attending school. Why? He admits that he is disturbed mentally. I know what you’re thinking, he may be just reasoning so he may not attend classes. And so I ask the parents. Surprisingly, they are not living with him, and are working abroad. They barely talk with him because of the time conflict—now that makes sense. Have you ever asked your child how he feels about online schooling? Some parents might answer ‘yes, I’m checking whether my child has assignments or projects to pass’ or ‘I talked to his teacher already and he says my son is doing fine, worst is some didn’t even bother asking their children about his or her day. However, it may not be the question they want to hear from you. Unlike adults who are matured and able to adjust to the sudden changes in the way they live, most students, particularly the younger ones—grade school to senior high school—are the most affected among us. This unanticipated shift from face-to-face classes to blended type of learning seems to overwhelm students in socializing with their peers and in performing well inside the class—either way, it brings unseen stress and frustration on their end. That’s why it is important that as parents, who are the direct support system at home, you should know that... They are at risk of having mental health concerns. Understand that because of the heightened measures to prevent the spread of covid-19, only adults are allowed to go out. Your child is sick of staying at home. He needs to socialize but he can’t help it, and it is frustrating to know the fact that they are being deprived to live the way they should be living. They need a healthy outlet. Whether it is chatting or calling their friends or playing computer games, they need these things to release the stress brought by just being at home. But not to the point of letting them out of control. Your high school daughter might stay late at night video-calling her classmate or watching a movie series. While your middle school son might skip eating because he’s too focused on playing that San Andreas. They need attention. Unlike before when they can hang out with others, now it could only be you who’s with him every day. Normally, they’ll be wanting more of your attention, especially with the younger kids. Play with them or listen to their random stories. On the other hand, your teenage son/daughter may not be vocal about it, but certainly, they want your attention as well. Personally, a student of mine intentionally didn’t pass the requirements of my subject so that I would have to call his parents. During the conference, he apologized for going that far just so his dad could notice him. They need help at school. Online learning puts stress on the individuality of the learners as they tend to do school tasks alone, therefore teachers will advise parents to lend them a hand. No matter how smart or talented your child is, for sure they will still be needing your help. For example, they might conduct an interview with you for their history activity; they might let you check first their math assignment, or they might ask you how to cook for their culinary subject. They need you. Your children live with you all day long and so they can sense if there’s a problem within the family and eventually absorb it. More than anyone else, at this time, you are their best company. Your child needs to socialize, be a friend whom he can talk to. He needs an outlet to release that boredom inside the house, be his playmate. He’s having a hard time doing school works, be his teacher at home. Have time for him and let him express himself. Without a doubt, Covid-19 has impacted the lives of many in different ways. Parents, though at home, are still caught up with office loads. That’s why even though they are with their kids, there’s still little involvement in their child’s school performance. Remember, your child’s silence could stir mental issues, and if not given proper attention, the story of this 10th-grade student will soon be your son/daughter’s story. About the Author I’m a professional secondary teacher and a freelance writer. With three years of teaching experience, I’d get to know different kinds of students one at a time and I know I have a long way to go. This year has been tough not only for professionals but for students as well and I sensed the need to share this to promote healthy mental health for everyone. If you find this article interesting and informative, feel free to follow my future writings.