Child mental health, especially in a school setting, is essential to a child's overall well-being and development.
Children in school face various challenges, from academic pressures to social dynamics, which can impact their mental health.
Issues such as ✔️stress, anxiety, ✔️bullying, and even ✔️trauma from outside the school environment—like family challenges or abuse—can greatly affect a child's ability to learn and grow.
🤏Early recognition and support are key, enabling children to develop resilience and coping skills.
🤏Schools play a pivotal role in fostering a supportive environment by incorporating mental health awareness and guidance programs, teaching emotional intelligence, and providing safe spaces for children to express their feelings.
On 24/10/24 I was thrilled to be invited to be part of the Shiperoy Primary School Mentorship program to enlighten students on how to overcome child abuse.
We had an opportunity to speak to 278 students from p4 to p7 in the presence of not less than 10 teachers.
Strong Minds Uganda, @Life Back Foundation, @Arukah House Uganda and Voice Life Health Organization.
🤌We addressed the issue of depression linked to child abuse, emphasizing the importance of disclosure, the need for young people to find strength in Christ for a fulfilling life, and the transformative power of persistence and behavioral change in shaping a brighter future.
As a member of the Technical Working Group on Counseling and Guidance at the Ministry of Education,
🎯I conducted a demonstration with a student who had been absent from morning preps.
During this session, I introduced Non-Violent Communication as an essential skill for fostering healthier communication.
This approach;
📌encourages alternatives to corporal punishment,
📌promotes conflict resolution,
📌builds emotional awareness, empathy, and contributes to a positive school environment for both teachers and students.
Teachers and counselors trained in child mental health can identify signs of distress early, helping children navigate their emotions and reinforcing positive behaviors.
When schools prioritize mental well-being, they not only enhance academic performance but also support healthier, happier students who are better prepared to face life’s challenges.
#nonviolentcommunication #resilience #Christcenteredapproach #growthmindset #healthycommunication #counselling #guidance