Mental Health Challenges among School Children and Their Effects on Educational Performance
Abstract
Educational Impacts Most children are experiencing mental problems including stress, anxiety, depression and behavioral disorders that affect them negatively in their academic performance. These difficulties affect motivation, focus and learning achievement. The present study was conducted to assess incidence of mental health problems among school children and assess its effects on academic achievement, classroom behavior, school attendance along with considering role of family and school support system. With a cross-sectional descriptive design, self-report questionnaires were administered on mental health variables of stress, anxiety and emotional symptoms while educational measures used included school attendance and motivation. Stratified random sampling was applied and 400 children aged 10-15 were chosen. The research concluded that psychological problems were rife and teacher support was the most important factor in addressing mental health and boosting academic performance. Coping, such as mindfulness and emotion regulation, was associated with better outcomes. The family atmosphere and the climate of the school were also important when it came to affecting the mental health among students. The research suggests the need to embed policies and programs designed to support mental health and coping in schools as a means of facilitating enhanced emotional and educational outcomes.
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