Brightcore Consultancy has had the privilege of working with over 850 schools, colleges, and educational settings across the country. Through our extensive experience, one crucial aspect has become abundantly clear: the mental health of our children is a vital component of their overall well-being and development. In this blog, we emphasise the paramount importance of supporting children's mental health, and why it is an investment we cannot afford to overlook.
Mental Health: The Foundation for Academic Success
Our educational settings are the places where young minds are moulded and prepared to take on the challenges of the world. However, academic success should not be our sole focus. A child's mental health is the foundation upon which academic achievement is built.
Children who are emotionally well-balanced, who have the tools to handle stress, and who feel safe and supported in their school environment are more likely to excel academically. They have the resilience to face challenges, the self-esteem to believe in themselves, and the emotional intelligence to navigate the complex social interactions of the school environment.
Early Intervention: The Power to Transform Lives
One crucial aspect of supporting children's mental health is early intervention. Around 50% of all mental health conditions are established by the time a child reaches the age of 14, and this number increases to 75% by the age of 24. The significance of early intervention cannot be overstated. By identifying and addressing mental health concerns in their early stages, we can prevent these issues from becoming enduring conditions that may have devastating long-term impacts.
As a nation, we have recognised the importance of early intervention and have taken steps to ensure that support is available for young individuals when they need it the most. Early support hubs, as recently funded by the government, provide a safe and accessible space for young people to seek help, free from the barriers of referrals or appointments. This initiative is a significant step forward in our collective efforts to prioritise children's mental health.
The Role of Education in Promoting Mental Health
Schools and colleges play a pivotal role in promoting mental health among children and young adults. This goes beyond simply offering counselling services, important as they are. It means fostering a holistic approach to mental wellbeing within the educational environment.
At Brightcore Consultancy, we provide training for Senior Mental Health Leads in schools and colleges. Our goal is to ensure that these settings have comprehensive, effective, and financially viable approaches to mental health and wellbeing in place. This training empowers educators with the knowledge and strategies to create, lead, and promote a dynamic, bespoke mental health approach tailored to their specific setting.
The Road Ahead: A Collaborative Effort
Supporting children's mental health is not the responsibility of schools alone. It is a shared endeavour that requires collaboration between educational settings, parents, policymakers, and mental health advocates. By working together, we can create an environment where every child and young adult knows they have somewhere to turn when they feel lost, overwhelmed, or down.
Investing in the mental health of our children is an investment in our nation's future. It is a commitment to providing the next generation with the tools they need to face life's challenges with strength and resilience. It is our duty to ensure that every child receives the vital early support they deserve, ultimately shaping a brighter and healthier future for all.
Our Mental Health First Aid courses are designed to teach people how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill health and provide help on a first aid basis. You can find out more information here.