Mental Health Days for Students
Summer is wrapping up, and many are preparing to get back in the swing of things with school. If the thought of going back to school fills you (or your child) with dread and anxiety, you’re not alone.
Good news! A new law has been passed that allows Illinois students to take up to five mental health days per school year.
The education bill, which was passed last fall and went into effect in January, allows students to use up to five mental or behavioral health days without a medical note, and students are also able to make up any missed work. Experts in the field of academics and mental health have found that local families are utilizing these mental health days to provide support to their children.
Clinicians, students and parents state that the mental health days have been incredibly beneficial. The negative impact of learning amid a pandemic has significantly increased mental health symptoms.
Allowing mental health absences to be excused is helping students to feel comfortable discussing mental health. The hope is that the policy will help reduce the stigma around mental health issues and promote healthy habits of self-care.
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. Addressing these mental health needs early can prevent more serious issues throughout a student's life.
Self-Care Tips for Children & Teens:
Listen to your favorite music
Sleep well. Getting enough sleep is essential to your mental health.
Put your phone/electronics away (or on silent) at least an hour before you go to bed.
Take a break from social media for a bit. Social media can have a negative impact on your mental health.
Color, paint, draw and/or journal.
Go outside for a walk. Fresh air does amazing things for your mental health.
Confide in someone that you trust.
DISCLAIMER
Willowcounseling2.com is meant to be for informational purposes only and should NOT be used as a substitution for diagnosis, treatment, or informed professional advice. Please always consult a trained mental health or health care professional before making decisions regarding treatment for yourself or others. Willow Counseling LLC cannot be held responsible for the use of the information provided.
The sole purpose of the Willow Counseling blog is to offer resources and information to those dealing with mental health issues. We cannot, and will not, assume the role of your physician or therapist.
If you or someone you know are experiencing an emotional crisis, please contact the National Crisis Hotline at 988 (NEW #!). Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately if you are experiencing a physical or mental health emergency.