Education is a crucial factor that can influence an individual’s mental health in various ways. In this article, we will explore the relationship between education and mental health and why education is essential for promoting positive mental health outcomes.
One of the primary ways that education can positively impact mental health is by enhancing cognitive skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making. Education provides individuals with the tools they need to manage stress and make informed decisions about their well-being.
Education can directly affect a child’s mental health
When we are in school – we are learning how to learn. School isn’t just about learning math and history…it’s about learning how to solve problems and synthesize information. Math is learning that every problem has a solution – and there are often multiple right ways to get to the same answer.
Education can provide individuals with a sense of identity and purpose. It allows them to gain a better understanding of themselves and their place in the world. This sense of identity and purpose can lead to improved confidence, motivation, and fulfillment, which can positively impact mental health.
Whether it is school success or situational awareness, students are constantly learning how to adjust their behaviors to achieve desired outcomes. Studying, being kind, helping teachers, doing homework, giving extra effort or giving too much effort with little reward…we learn a lot about life in school.
Education can also impact mental health through socialization. It provides individuals with opportunities to form social connections and develop social support networks, which are critical for positive mental health outcomes. Additionally, education can help individuals learn how to communicate effectively, which can improve their ability to form and maintain social relationships.
Again with being kind and making an effort to make and keep friends is an ability that is formed in school. Not only do we experience the good and bad of people ourselves, we see the positive and negative outcomes of other people’s decisions and actions.
Education can help individuals develop coping mechanisms to deal with stress and adversity. It provides them with the tools they need to manage their emotions and handle difficult situations. This is particularly important for individuals who are at higher risk for mental health issues, such as those who have experienced trauma or come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Having a network of trusted adults is key here. Finding a few trusted adults and peers can provide amazing access to coping skills. Sometimes, we have the skills, we know the skills, but being able to access those skills during a stressful event can be a challenge. That’s where our circle of support comes in. They can talk us down, talk us up, support us, and provide perspective.
Education can provide individuals with access to resources and services that can improve their mental health. Schools and universities often have mental health services available to students, including counseling and therapy. This can be a critical resource for individuals who are struggling with mental health issues.
Often, our parents are difficult to talk with. In school, adults typically understand child and youth development. There will always be those who “aren’t really helpful” – but encouraging students to find that trusted adult is important. Whether it’s counseling, social groups, teams, special education services, or just a kind adult – we all need someone.
Lack of education can have negative impacts on mental health. Studies have shown that individuals with lower levels of education are at higher risk for mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and stress. This is because individuals with less education may have fewer resources and opportunities available to them, which can lead to a sense of hopelessness and helplessness.
Besides the stress of not having equal education to same age-level peers, those with less education struggle in a variety of ways. Connecting with school and the support system in the school is an overall great way to build those bridges and learn skills that help us become independent, mentally healthy adults.