As a middle school teacher for over 15 years, I have seen firsthand the impact that school culture can have on students’ mental health and overall well-being. Middle school is a time of transition and change, and students are often navigating new social dynamics, academic challenges, and personal growth. It is crucial that schools prioritize creating a positive culture that supports students’ mental health and helps them build confidence and resilience.
Intertween anxiety is a common issue among middle school students, and it can be exacerbated by negative school culture. Intertween anxiety refers to the anxiety that arises from the social pressures and expectations that come with being a middle schooler. Students may feel pressure to fit in, perform academically, and navigate complex social dynamics. When schools prioritize competition, comparison, and a narrow definition of success, it can contribute to intertween anxiety and make it harder for students to feel confident and secure.
On the other hand, when schools prioritize creating a positive culture that values kindness, inclusivity, and well-being, it can have a profound impact on students’ mental health. Students who feel supported and valued by their school community are more likely to feel confident and resilient, even in the face of challenges. They are also more likely to seek help when they need it and to develop healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with stress and anxiety.
So, how can schools create a positive culture that supports students’ mental health and well-being? Here are some strategies that I have seen work in my own classroom and school:
1. Prioritize kindness and inclusivity: Schools should explicitly prioritize kindness and inclusivity as core values. This means creating a school-wide culture that celebrates diversity, encourages empathy, and values respect for all members of the community. When students feel that their school community values and supports them, they are more likely to feel confident and secure.
2. Celebrate diverse talents and strengths: Schools should celebrate diverse talents and strengths, rather than emphasizing a narrow definition of success. This means recognizing and celebrating students’ strengths in academics, athletics, the arts, and other areas. When students see that their school values a broad range of talents and interests, they are more likely to feel confident and proud of their own unique strengths.
3. Create opportunities for meaningful connections: Schools should create opportunities for students to connect with each other and with teachers in meaningful ways. This means prioritizing small group discussions, collaborative projects, and other activities that encourage students to get to know each other and build relationships. When students feel connected to their peers and teachers, they are more likely to feel supported and valued.
4. Encourage healthy coping mechanisms: Schools should prioritize teaching students healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with stress and anxiety. This means providing resources for mindfulness, meditation, exercise, and other activities that promote well-being. When students have healthy coping mechanisms, they are better equipped to handle the challenges of middle school and beyond.
5. Provide resources for mental health support: Schools should provide resources for mental health support, including counseling services and other resources for students who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. When students feel that they have access to support when they need it, they are more likely to seek help and to develop healthy strategies for coping with mental health challenges.
Creating a positive school culture that supports students’ mental health and well-being is not an easy task, but it is a crucial one. When schools prioritize kindness, inclusivity, and well-being, they can help students build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. As educators, it is our responsibility to create a school culture that supports the whole child, and that includes their mental health and well-being. By working together, we can create schools that empower students to thrive and succeed, both in middle school and beyond.
