In the United States, more than 2.3 million young people face major depression.

Depression can lead to suicide, and suicide is the 4th leading cause of death among teens of 15 to 19 years old.

We might think that mental health is only an issue related to adults. However, more and more young people are affected by a mental health problem that affects their lives in general, causing problems such as social exclusion, discrimination, aggressive and risky behaviors, poor physical health and educational difficulties, among others.

Talking about mental health is undoubtedly crucial and urgent as it directly affects the development, preparation and growth of students causing low academic performance, lack of motivation, insecurity in decision-making, and more areas that are necessary to overcome and achieve their goals. 

How can we identify when a student is suffering from poor mental health?

There are externalizing and internalizing behaviors that are important to know to identify mental health problems in students. Externalizing behaviors are when the student shows aggressiveness, an aggressive temperament, or impulsivity. While internalizing behaviors are anxiety, depression, and chronic stress.

A student with a mental health problem: 

1. Will drastically decrease the completion of tasks and projects, causing a drop in their grades. 
2. Begins to have a poor relationship with teachers and peers due to irritability.
3. Remains tired and low energy, even falling asleep in class. 
4. Talks about himself in a negative way and lets others know about his lack of confidence and trust in himself and his abilities. 
5. Gives up hobbies or activities he/she used to enjoy.
6. Has trouble concentrating in class and paying attention. 
7. Becomes disorganized so he/she does not turn in projects on time or does not remember important events such as exams, presentations, etc. 
8. In some cases their physical health is affected by weight loss or weight gain in a short period of time. 
9. In more worrying cases, he/she starts abusing substances such as drugs or alcohol, even getting along with people who are bad influences. 

Now that you know the signs, you can take action and help them in the following ways: 

If you are part of the school, you can put the student in contact with mental health services, support them, offer your help and try to build a safe and supportive classroom environment. 

From home, talk about it, don’t make it taboo, help your son or daughter by doing activities that they enjoy, creating a space where they feel comfortable and supported to overcome it. 

Understanding the impact of mental health on students can make a difference in raising awareness and helping young people feel good, motivated, happy and able to achieve their dreams. 

Strategies and methods are urgently needed to be created to help them get back on track and avoid major problems that threaten their lives, their environment, and even others.