Poor mental health has previously been linked to poor school attendance, with anxiety often described as a key risk factor. Anxiety and mental health issues can impact school attendance, affecting children and young peoples’ ability to engage consistently with their education.
Impact of Anxiety and Mental Health on School Attendance
Types of Anxiety and Mental Health Issues
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life, including school, can cause children and young people to avoid attending.
Social Anxiety Disorder: Fear of social interactions and being judged by peers can lead to school avoidance.
Depression: Symptoms such as fatigue, low motivation, and feelings of hopelessness can reduce a child or young persons capacity to attend school regularly.
Panic Disorders: Sudden and intense episodes of fear can make the school environment feel unsafe, leading to absences.
Symptoms Affecting Attendance
Physical Symptoms: Anxiety and depression can manifest as physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach-aches, and fatigue, which can be mistaken for other illnesses, leading to absenteeism.
Cognitive Symptoms: Difficulties with concentration, memory, and decision-making can hinder academic performance and make students reluctant to attend school.
Behavioural Symptoms: Avoidance behaviours, such as refusing to leave home or truanting classes, are common in children and young people dealing with anxiety and mental health issues.
Triggers in the School Environment
Academic Pressure: High expectations and workload can trigger anxiety, especially during exam periods or when facing challenging subjects.
Social Challenges: Bullying, peer pressure, and difficulties in making friends can exacerbate social anxiety and lead to school refusal.
Transitions: Moving from primary to secondary school or changing schools can increase stress and anxiety levels.
Strategies to Support Students
Early Identification and Intervention
Assessment of Wellbeing: Monitoring and assess children and young peoples wellbeing in schools allows practitioners to pro-actively identify pupils who may require targeted support.
Wellbeing Profile: Glasgow Motivation and Wellbeing Profile (GMWP) | Resources | Education Scotland
Counselling Services: Providing access to school counsellors or psychologists who can offer support and intervention for students experiencing anxiety.
Mental Health Support in Schools – Dumfries and Galloway Council (dumgal.gov.uk)
Creating a Supportive Environment
Safe Spaces: Establishing safe spaces within the school where students can go if they feel overwhelmed.
Inclusive Policies: Developing policies that promote inclusivity and address bullying and discrimination, creating a safer and more supportive school environment.
Promoting Mental Health Awareness
Health & Wellbeing Curriculum: Integrating mental health education into the curriculum to raise awareness among students and staff about the importance of mental health and how to seek help.
Health & Wellbeing in Dumfries and Galloway (glowscotland.org.uk)
Parent Engagement: Providing resources and workshops for parents to help them understand and support their children’s mental health needs.
Flexible Learning Options
Alternative Timetables: Offering flexible scheduling for students who may need to gradually reintegrate into the school environment.
Youth Work in Schools – Dumfries and Galloway Council (dumgal.gov.uk)
Remote Learning: Providing options for remote learning or blended learning for students who find it challenging to attend school in person regularly.
Supporting remote learning | Resources | Education Scotland
Partnership Working
Healthcare Partnerships: Collaborating with local health services and mental health professionals to ensure students receive comprehensive care.
Dumfries & Galloway Health & Social Care – Dumfries & Galloway Health & Social Care (dghscp.co.uk)
Community Support: Engaging community organizations that specialize in youth mental health to provide additional resources and support.
Resources for children and young people – SupportDG – Dumfries and Galloway Council (dumgal.gov.uk)
Local Services – Youth Enquiry Service | Dumfries & Galloway
Building Resilience and Coping Skills
Life Skills Programs: Teaching students coping strategies, stress management, and resilience-building techniques through dedicated programs.
The Journey: Adventures in Resilience | Resources | National Improvement Hub (education.gov.scot)
Peer Support: Establishing peer support / mentoring groups where children and young people can share experiences and support each other in managing anxiety and mental health challenges.
