Get Help at School

Mental health is a vital part of overall well-being, especially for teenagers and young people who face various challenges during their school years. There are several ways which students can seek mental health support at school, including guidance teachers, school counsellors, school nurses, and teachers trained in mental health first aid. Additionally, numerous online resources are available to provide further support and information.

Guidance Teachers

Guidance teachers play a crucial role in the pastoral care system within schools. They are often the first point of contact for studnets experiencing mental health issues. Guidance teachers are trained to provide emotional and academic support, helping students manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. They can offer a listening ear, help students develop coping strategies, and reger them to specialised services if necessary. Building a trusting relationship with a guidance teacher can provide a safe space for students to express their concerns and seek help.

School Counsellors

Many schools in Scotland have dedicated school counsellors who provide professional mental health support. School counsellors are trained to address a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, bullying, and family problems. They offer confidential one-on-one counselling sessions where students can discuss their feelings and challenges. The presence of school counsellors ensures that students have access to professional mental health care within the school environment, making it easier for them to seek help without the need to travel or make appointments outside school hours.

School Nurses

School nurses are another valuable resource for mental health support. They are often involved in health education and can provide initial assessments of a student's mental health. School nurses can offer advice on healthy lifestyle choices, stress management, and emotional well-being. They can also identify signs of mental health issues early and refer students to appropriate services for further help. By working closely with other school staff, school nurses contribute to a holistic approach to student help, encompassing both physical and mental well-being.

Mental Health First Aid Trained Teachers

Mental health first aid trained teachers are equipped to recognise the signs of mental health issues and provide initial support. These teachers have undergone specialised training to understand common mental health problems, offer reassurance, and guide students towards professional help. Having teachers trained in mental health first aid within the school ensures that there is always someone available to provide immediate support and intervene in a mental health crisis. This training helps create a supportive school environment where mental health is openly discussed and addressed.

Online Resources

In addition to in-person support, several online resources are available to students in Scotland to help them manage their mental health:

Young Scot: Young Scot offers a wealth of information and resources on mental health, including articles, videos, and links to support services. Their website provides advice on coping with stress, anxiety, and other common issues faced by young people.
NHS Inform: NHS Inform provides comprehensive information on mental health conditions, treatments, and how to access services. It's a valuable resource for students seeking reliable information about their mental health.
Childline: Childline offers free, confidential support to young people. Their website features resources on a wide range of mental health topics, and students can also contact Childline counsellors through phone, email, or online chat.
Breathing Space: Breathing space offers a confidential phone line and web chat service for anyone experiencing low mood, anxiety, or depression. It's a great resource for students who need someone to talk to outside school hours.
Samaritans: Samaritans provide emotional support 24/7 to anyone in distress. Students can call their helpline, send an email, or use their online resources for support.

Conclusion

Mental health support in schools is essential for the well-being of teenagers and young people in Scotland. Guidance teachers, school counsellors, school nurses, and mental health first aid trained teachers form a robust support network within schools. These resources, combined with a variety of online support services, ensure that students have access to the help they need to navigate the challenges of their school years. Encouraging open discussions about mental health and providing multiple avenues for support can create a positive and supportive school environment where students can thrive both academically and emotionally.

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Talk to a Member of Staff About Mental Health Concerns

Talking about mental health can be daunting, especially if you are feeling anxious or worried. Whether you are concerned about your own mental health or that of a friend, reaching out to a member of staff at school can be a crucial step towards getting the necessary support.

Step 1: Identify the Right Person to Talk To

Choose a Trusted Member of Staff: Think about who you feel most comfortable talking to. This could be a guidance teacher, school counsellor, school nurse, or a teacher.
Consider Accessibility: Choose someone who is available and approachable. Guidance teachers and school counsellors typically have designated times for student consultations.

Step 2: Prepare Yourself

Acknowledge Your Feelings: Understand that feeling anxious or worried about discussing mental health is normal. Recognise your feelings and remind yourself that seeking help is a positive step.
Gather Your Thoughts: Before you approach the staff member, take a moment to think about what you want to say. You might find it helpful to write down some key points or questions.

Step 3: Choose the Right Time and Place

Find a Quiet Moment: Look for a time when the staff member is not busy and can give you their full attention. This might be before or after school, during a break, or during their office hours.
Ensure Privacy: Choose a location where you can have a private conversation without interruptions. This could be the staff member's office, a quiet room, or any other suitable place.

Step 4: Start the Conversation

Take a Deep Breath: Calm yourself with a few deep breaths before you begin speaking. This can help reduce your anxiety.
Be Honest and Direct: Start the conversation with a clear and honest statement. For example:

"I've been feeling really anxious lately and I need some help."
"I'm worried about my friend's mental health and I don't know what to do."

Step 5: Share Your Concerns

Describe Your Feelings or Observations: Explain how you've been feeling or what you've observed about your friend. Be as specific as you can. For example:

"I've been feeling very stressed and overwhelmed with schoolwork."
"My friend has been acting very differently lately, and I'm worried about them."

Mention Any Relevant Details: If there are specific incidents or behaviours that concern you, mention them. This helps the staff member understand the situation better.

Step 6: Ask for Help or Guidance

Ask for Support: Clearly state that you are seeking help or guidance. For example:

"Can you help me understand what I can do to feel better?"
"What should I do to support my friend?"

Be Open to Suggestions: The staff member may offer advice, resources, or refer you to a professional for further help. Be open to their suggestions and ask questions if you need clarification.

Step 7: Follow Up

Schedule a Follow-Up Meeting: Arrange a time to meet again to discuss your progress or any further concerns. This shows that you are committed to getting help and staying on track.
Keep the Conversation Going: Mental health support is an ongoing process. Don't hesitate to reach out again if you need more help or if new issues arise.

Step 8: Use Available Resources

Access School Resources: Make use of any resources provided by the school such as counselling services, wellness programmes, or mental health workshops.
Utilise Online Resources: Explore online resources recommended by the staff member, such as:

Young Scot
NHS Inform
Childline
Breathing Space
Samaritans

Talking about mental health can be challenging, but it is an important step towards getting the support you need. By following these steps, you can approach a member of staff with confidence and clarity. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and there are people at school who are ready and willing to support you. Don't hesitate to reach out and take the first step towards improvind your mental health or supporting a friend in need.