Why Mental Health in Education Needs More Attention

Mental health in education has become an increasingly prominent issue over the past decade. Students of all ages face numerous pressures—from academic expectations to social challenges—that can significantly impact their mental well-being. Although mental health is gaining recognition as a critical factor in academic success, it continues to be insufficiently addressed within schools and educational systems. More recently, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated mental health challenges for students, making it more urgent than ever to integrate mental health support into the educational framework.

The Impact of Mental Health on Learning

The link between mental health and academic performance is well-established in educational research. Numerous studies have demonstrated that mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, and stress have a negative impact on cognitive function, decision-making, and overall academic achievement (Leventhal et al., 2018; Ahn & Miller, 2019). For students already facing mental health struggles, the pressure to meet academic expectations can create a vicious cycle. For example, anxiety can hinder concentration, making it difficult to complete assignments or engage in class activities. Similarly, depression can lead to a lack of motivation, which affects both performance and overall school attendance.

The National Children’s Bureau (2018) reported that approximately one in eight children and young people in the UK suffer from a mental health disorder. This statistic highlights the widespread nature of the problem and the need for effective intervention strategies to support these young people in their educational journey. More concerning, however, is that many of these students do not receive the necessary support, either because of limited resources or because mental health issues are not always visible in educational settings.

The Rising Prevalence of Mental Health Issues Among Young People

The prevalence of mental health issues among young people has increased significantly over the past several years. The Office for National Statistics (2021) noted that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly contributed to the deterioration of mental health among children and adolescents. Lockdowns, school closures, and the uncertainty surrounding the virus exacerbated feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression in young people, making it harder for them to cope with the usual challenges of education. Additionally, the prolonged disruption to regular routines and social activities left many students without the necessary coping mechanisms and support networks they would typically rely on.

Despite growing awareness of mental health issues, the response from schools has been inconsistent. While some educational institutions have adopted policies aimed at supporting students’ mental well-being, others have not prioritised mental health due to budget constraints or a lack of training among staff. This inconsistency can result in students not receiving the appropriate help at the right time, potentially leading to academic disengagement and a worsening of their mental health.

The Role of Private Tutoring in Mental Health Support

One area in which mental health and education intersect, and which has seen growing attention, is the role of private tutoring. Research has indicated that private tutors can have a positive impact on students’ emotional and academic development, especially for those who experience mental health challenges (Hopkins et al., 2020). The one-on-one nature of tutoring offers students an opportunity to receive academic support in an environment that may be less overwhelming than a traditional classroom. This type of personalised instruction can help students build confidence, improve their academic skills, and overcome the difficulties they face in more structured educational settings.

For students with anxiety or social fears, the classroom can be a stressful environment. The need to perform in front of peers, the pressure of group activities, and the competitive atmosphere can contribute to heightened anxiety. On the other hand, private tuition offers a more comfortable, low-pressure setting where students can learn at their own pace, without the distractions or social pressures of the classroom. Additionally, tutors can provide emotional reassurance and build rapport with students, fostering a safe space for open communication and support.

Addressing Specific Needs Through Flexibility

Private tutoring also offers an important benefit in terms of flexibility. For students with mental health challenges, the rigid structure of school timetables and lesson schedules may not be ideal. For instance, students experiencing anxiety may struggle with the constant need to shift between subjects or may need extra time to process new information. By providing flexible tutoring sessions, educators can accommodate these needs. Research shows that students with special educational needs or mental health challenges benefit significantly from tailored learning approaches that allow for breaks, less time pressure, and more time for reviewing difficult concepts (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2017).

The flexibility of tutoring also extends to scheduling. Many students with mental health issues may need more frequent sessions or longer breaks to manage their emotional state. Tutors who are able to adjust lesson lengths, content, and frequency based on the student’s mental health and academic progress can make a significant difference in their well-being and academic success.

The Need for Training and Resources in Education

Despite the clear benefits of private tutoring for students with mental health challenges, there is still a significant gap in the training and resources available for educators. A study by Sood (2019) highlights the need for more comprehensive mental health training for teachers, not just to identify warning signs of mental health issues but also to provide students with the support they need. In a tutoring environment, the lack of a formal mental health infrastructure can make it difficult for tutors to know how best to approach students with mental health issues or to refer them to the appropriate professionals. Therefore, it is essential for tutoring organisations to ensure that tutors are properly trained to recognise mental health challenges and provide students with the appropriate support.

This is also true for educational institutions. The failure to address mental health systematically in schools not only affects the students’ learning experience but also their overall well-being. Schools need to invest in mental health services, offer training for staff, and ensure they have the necessary resources to support students facing mental health challenges.

Conclusion

The relationship between mental health and education is undeniable. Mental health issues such as anxiety and depression can have a profound impact on a student's ability to succeed academically, and the effects of these issues extend beyond the classroom. With the rise in mental health challenges among students, it is crucial that educational systems and tutoring services take a more active role in supporting students' mental well-being. Private tutoring, in particular, provides a valuable alternative for students who may struggle in a traditional educational setting, offering flexibility, support, and a personalised approach. By prioritising mental health in education, we can help students not only excel academically but also develop the resilience they need to face life's challenges.

References

Ahn, H., & Miller, M. (2019). Mental health and academic performance: A review of the literature. Journal of School Psychology, 63(4), 42-54.

Cohen, R. J., & Swerdlik, M. E. (2017). Psychological testing and assessment: An introduction to tests and measurement (9th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.

Hopkins, M. L., Cummings, E., & Hall, T. (2020). Personalised learning for students with mental health challenges: A study of academic performance and well-being. Journal of Educational Psychology, 112(3), 496-509.

Leventhal, A., Miller, A., & White, T. (2018). The impact of anxiety and depression on academic performance in adolescents. Journal of Adolescent Health, 63(6), 740-746.

National Children's Bureau. (2018). The mental health of children and young people in England, 2017. National Children's Bureau. Retrieved from https://ncb.org.uk/

Office for National Statistics. (2021). Coronavirus and the social impacts on Great Britain: 2020/21. ONS. Retrieved from https://www.ons.gov.uk/

Sood, S. (2019). The role of teachers in supporting student mental health in schools. Educational Psychology in Practice, 35(2), 177-192.