Exploring mental health in the classroom
At any point during a school year, it is not uncommon to witness students complaining of stomach aches or worrying about homework and tests. While these may seem like run-of-the mill childhood concerns, they can sometimes signal a deeper mental health issue.
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, it is estimated that 10% to 20% of Canadian youth are affected by mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
School is one of the biggest stressors in children’s lives today, due to much-sought-after acceptance by peers and high academic expectations from parents and teachers, which can undermine their confidence, cause them to worry, feel anxious, lose sleep, and sometimes stop eating or harm themselves.
The National Film Board educational playlist of films on mental health can be used in the classroom to start the conversation with your students. You may also use the playlist for your own professional and personal development.
