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Are you struggling with your academic needs? You might think that having a tutor or attending after-school study sessions are the solutions to this problem. But there is another often overlooked option that you should consider: visiting your school counselor. They are here to make your school life more enjoyable and manageable. Read on to learn about why a visit to your school counselor might be in order.

Adjusting To A New Environment

If you are a new student in the school, you may find it hard to settle in your new environment. Visiting the school counselor may be necessary to learn more about adapting and fitting into your school. They will help you understand why you are having trouble and how to overcome this.

Your school counselor may give you some tips and techniques for striking a conversation if you find it difficult to speak with strangers. They can also help you become more comfortable and confident with the way you present yourself to your new peers.

Sometimes, school counselors may also pair you with a buddy to help you adjust to the school and the new environment. They may also introduce you to school clubs and ask you to join one or two that might fit your interests and skills.  

Tackling Problems With Your Peers Or Teachers

If you are in a fight with a peer and affect your emotional health and school performance, visit your school counselor. School counselors can help you process your emotions and find better ways to deal with them. They can also act as mediators to fix your relationship with your classmate.

A school counselor can help you if you are bullied at school. First, they will try to identify the causes of bullying and its effect on you, the bully, and the people around you. Then they will provide the best intervention strategies to prevent this from worsening or happening again. Support is given to both the bully and the bullied to process and understand their emotions. In some cases, support may also be given to the people around these individuals.

You can also visit your school counselor if you have a problem with any teacher. They can help you talk through the issue and resolve it with the concerned teacher. 

Coping With Stress And Other Emotional Problems

Academics is not the only stressor that children and teens face daily. Stress can also come from self- and parental expectations, peer pressure, physical changes, and relationships with other people. If you experience these, then you probably need to see your school counselor. Counselors can help you find healthy ways to deal with your everyday stressors. 

School counselors can also assist you in developing a better understanding of your emotional problems and why they happen. You may also visit your school counselor if you feel bad and don’t know the reason why. But it is necessary to remember that they will not tell you what to do or how to think. Instead, their role is to guide you in figuring it out and dealing with it properly.

School counselors will also help identify whether you need more help for your emotional health. If you exhibit mental health problems like depression and debilitating anxiety, they can also refer you to a psychologist for further treatment.

Managing Academics And Future Career Path

If you have trouble managing your schedule and your academics, school counselors can help you find a way to deal with it. They will help you prioritize your activities and check which ones to keep and to quit. In addition, they can fix up your calendar so that you can make better decisions for your studies.

Visiting a school counselor for your academics will also help set you on the right track for your future. They will guide you in selecting the proper classes and activities that align with your prospective university. This will potentially minimize the risk of being in the wrong university or degree program. 

If you are unsure of what career path to follow, the school counselor will work with you in identifying your skills, passions, and aspirations. Then they can help align them with potential degree programs to help you decide what to do next.

You might use co-curricular and classes to avoid your problems. By visiting your school counselor, you will understand your thought patterns and behavior and how it affects your schoolwork. They will also guide you in finding a better and healthier way to deal with these problems.

Facing Personal And Social Problems

A school counselor is equipped to help you deal with problems both at school and at home. For example, if you ever struggle with self-esteem problems or a fight at home, you can also come and talk with them. They are trained to listen and give good advice in dealing with these issues. Your sessions will also remain confidential.

Sometimes, stress may come from the feeling of being unheard. So, a school counselor may help you practice how to stand up to your parents or voice your concern at home. They will also walk you through your thoughts and emotions to express them to your family members. In some cases, they may also step in and mediate between you and your parents.

Likewise, school counselors can also advise you on how to build your self-esteem and self-confidence. You will need these skills to stand out in your academics and future endeavors. Finally, besides personal development, school counselors can also help you process your grief if a loved one died during the school term. 

School counselors are the often overlooked members of the school community despite having so much to offer to the students and their futures. They help hone students’ skills and assist them in choosing the right paths for their holistic development. So if you have time today, consider going to your school counselor’s office for a productive talk with them.

What does online therapy offer? What are the benefits that you can get from an online therapy service? The therapy offers a wide range of benefits and advantages that make mental health support more accessible for individuals.

How Is Online Therapy Different From The Traditional One?

Let’s learn more about e-therapy in this article. Is this therapy a good option?

The best online therapy services, also known as telehealth, and cognitive behavioral therapy, or is a growing trend in mental health care. It allows people to access affordable sessions and quality mental health medication management without having to leave their homes or travel long distances for their appointments.

The best platforms or online counseling platforms provide certified mental health professionals or licensed therapists, with the same tools and resources found in traditional sessions. These professionals prescribe medication that is as cheap as online therapy costs.

Well, virtual therapy is helpful. Sometimes, people choose the treatment due to its convenience. People believe in its power because it helps deal with stress and anxiety through therapeutic processes. Therapy offers professional help.

During mental health emergencies, they often provide tips on handling your emotions and stress management. Sadly, our access to these services has been limited due to the ongoing pandemic. Ever since COVID-19 hit, multiple cities worldwide have been imposing strict community quarantines. This means a lot of establishments have closed down to prevent the virus spread. Unfortunately, this includes those who provide counseling online services.

Online Therapy Help

Why Consider Tele-therapy Sessions?

It is an increasingly popular option for individuals who experience a mental health crisis. It allows people to access the same quality of care as in-person therapy from the comfort of their own homes. The use of virtual cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health care issues.

Licensed clinical social workers and licensed marriage and family therapists are available on the Talkspace platform. All providers must meet specific qualifications in order to provide services on Talkspace, ensuring that clients receive quality care from qualified professionals and the best online therapy programs.

Luckily, the world shifted to online therapy services. Online counseling has the benefits of a regular session with your counselor but in the safety and comforts of your own home. This can be done through text messages, video calls, video sessions, mobile apps, and emails. Below are three methods of treatment counseling to help keep your mental health conditions in check during quarantine.

• Providing Therapy Online Consultations Through Text And Online Video Chats

To minimize the transmission of COVID-19, most hospitals have started doing online therapy. The internet is no longer just for games and social media. The healthcare system has also been evolving together with technology through the years.

Online therapy enables patients to have medical consultations with doctors through computers and mobile devices. It’s the same as going to the doctor’s office and having them interview you. The difference is you don’t have to leave your house to do it! This way, situations needing the patient’s physical presence can be prioritized.

Online Therapy

The same goes for in-office therapy and counseling services. Ask your counselor if they are available for an online session. If yes, you and your counselor can schedule a virtual video chat. During your session with your counselor, make sure that you are somewhere you feel comfortable opening up. Free your surroundings from distractions to maximize the time you spend with them.

• A Lot Of Mobile Apps For Emotional Therapy Online Checks

Another way of managing your stress levels in quarantine is using mobile apps designed to do so. For example, if you are experiencing rapid and sudden mood swings, you might find mood-tracking apps handy. These apps enable you to record your mood at a specific time of the day. Are you extra irritable during lunch? Feeling anxious during bedtime? Write it down! It can be the best psychodynamic therapy for you.

These counseling apps work by letting you view how your mood changes throughout the day. You input the information you find worth noting at a specific time. This could be something like receiving a text message or eating a specific food. Upon seeing your high and low points of the day, you can relate the things you’ve recorded to a certain mood. Although not 100% accurate in predicting your mood, you can use this insight as a precaution.

However, professional online therapy is still one of the most effective ways to handle mental illnesses. But, these virtual talk therapy apps can still help you in other ways. For example, presenting your data to your counselor may give them a better view of your dealing with it. In return, they can provide you with the appropriate assistance. Keeping a journal can also be therapeutic and can help relieve stress and debilitating anxiety.

Online Therapy

Some apps help you communicate with an online counselor or licensed mental health professional. You can send a message to an expert and check the assigned therapist’s availability when you have questions or a situation arises.

Online Counseling Is Perfect For You.

• There’s a Therapy Group From Online Individuals

The comfort and companionship your friends give you are also important. Being surrounded by people you care about gives you a sense of security. Knowing you have someone who listens to you or can be a shoulder to cry on can lessen your worries even if it’s online. In addition, being in a support group gives you the social interaction needed to speed up recovery from mental health problems. It’s like having a group of online friends but with more focus on mental health services through a therapy session.

The Things To Remember

If you already have a support group, discuss with them if it is possible to shift to an online setting. If not, invite your friends! Being in an online support group is good for everyone. Discuss with your peers what works, such as the platform to use or the group session schedule. Being isolated for a long time, and seeing a friendly face can make a huge difference to your day.

Final Thoughts And Takeaways To Consider

At the end of the day, it is important to keep your mental health conditions in check. While we wait for the pandemic to end, it is good to know there are alternatives you can partake in. Still, asking your virtual therapy counselor what methods are the perfect fit for you is best. With these online tools at your disposal, you can ensure your mental well-being during this pandemic.

Best online therapy options have become a popular choice for those seeking mental health counseling. With the rise of technology, people now have access to a program that is provided by licensed providers of mental health counselors through an online platform such as http://therapy.com. These programs offer many benefits, such as convenience and anonymity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Best Online Therapy Platform?

Determining the best online therapy platform can be subjective as it depends on individual preferences and needs. Several reputable online therapy platforms offer access to licensed therapists and mental health professionals who can provide therapy services over the internet. When seeking the best online therapy platform, it’s essential to consider factors such as the qualifications of the therapists, the range of therapeutic services offered, the platform’s user-friendliness, and the cost. It’s recommended to research and compare different platforms to find the one that aligns best with your specific mental health and therapy requirements.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Virtual Counselling?

The disadvantages of virtual counseling, or online therapy, can include limitations in establishing a strong therapeutic rapport with an online therapist compared to in-person sessions. Additionally, not all individuals may have access to the necessary technology or a stable internet connection for the best online counseling experience. While cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence-based approaches can be effective, the lack of face-to-face interaction may hinder some clients’ engagement or comfort levels. It’s important to recognize these potential drawbacks and assess whether virtual counseling is the right fit for one’s specific therapeutic needs and circumstances.

Where Can I Talk To Someone For Free?

There are various places where you can talk to someone for free. Some options include seeking free therapy online through resources that offer counseling services on a limited basis or accessing community mental health services that provide free or low-cost support. Additionally, some organizations and nonprofits offer free counseling or support groups for specific needs, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or couples therapy. It’s essential to explore the available free health services in your area and online to find the most suitable option for your needs and circumstances.

Does Online Therapy Work For Trauma?

Can You Talk To A Therapist For Free Virtually?

Can Online Therapy Experts Diagnose You?

Is Virtual Therapy Safe?

Are Online Therapists Safe?

Is Online Therapy Expensive?

Is Online Therapy Successful?

Why Do Clients Smile When Talking About Trauma?

How Do You Fix Unhealed Trauma?

Is It Trauma Or Am I Overreacting?

How does a person with trauma behave?

What are the 5 signs of emotional suffering?

There are instances when we feel a little weird. Sometimes, we think it is just feelings we get from the overwhelming stress we experience daily. Usually, this unwanted feeling tends to go away as we continue to live and function like we always do. There is a sense that no matter how hard we deal emotionally and mentally, we can still get through whatever the struggle there is.

However, things are slightly different for those who can’t find the courage to get better to cope. Sometimes, our thoughts and emotions become all we have. That explains why we sometimes tend to feel a persistent and extreme emotional and mental health burden. From there, everything we unexpectedly experience becomes debilitating.

Debilitating Anxiety – Impacts of Mental Health Problems

When dealing with a mental health problem, some of us experience a sudden change in habit. When you think about it, there are instances that you (when struggling with mental health) or others become a different person in just a split second. Their mood and reactions towards something can change instantly and sometimes it does not even correlate to the required response that the situation needs.

In other circumstances, we lose focus when mentally and emotionally unstable. We even neglect the things we once love and find the hobbies we like boring and unenjoyable to do. We no longer seek happiness and allow ourselves to get stuck in a situation (though it is not always harmful) we never entirely and genuinely like.

We might say, “As long as our mental and emotional state is not affecting other aspects of our lives, we are still good.” Honestly, that is the problem because eventually, despite seemingly trying to portray being unbothered with the psychological condition, things will soon fall apart. Our school and work performance will diminish. We will neglect self-care and self-awareness, lose interest in things, tire of trying, and shut people out of our lives. Isn’t that scary enough? Many genetic and environmental factors could contribute to someone’s negative thoughts and stressful daily life events, leading to stress and anxiety.

What if we won’t be able to make it on our own in this life? What if all the efforts we put into improving ourselves are insufficient? What if all the loved ones we want to be there along with this journey won’t contribute something to our recovery? What if the treatment options and relaxation techniques are not making any changes? What if we get stuck mentally and emotionally drained? What if generalized anxiety disorder and depression lead to self-harm and lots of thoughts of suicide? What if the coping strategies we are trying are not working? What if?

You see, there is no answer to these questions because they all rely on our ability to take control of our thoughts and life. It all comes down to the best of what we can do to make ourselves believe in the healing process of our mental and emotional state. It’s all about our self-resilience, self-esteem, and self-motivation.

Would you agree with that? And if not, what are the best options or anxiety treatment strategies? Is it worth it that we only do what we think is what other people would do to get better? If the answer is yes, then perhaps mental illness shouldn’t be a problem since most people are knowledgeable enough to address specific mental or a psychological disorder. And if the answer is no, are therapy cbt, counseling (talk therapy), and medication enough to handle the problem?

However, things are slightly different for those who can’t find the courage to get better. Sometimes, our thoughts and emotions become all we have. That explains why we sometimes feel persistent and extreme emotional and mental burdens. From there, everything we unexpectedly experience becomes crippling.

Our mental and emotional states are things that require a lot of effort. We can’t just say that we are okay when we are not. Yes, we can be in denial about what we are going through, but when our mental health is already in its damaged condition, we can’t help but feel sad and worried about it. But what makes our emotional and mental health problems crippling? What are the things that can stop us from being positive about our lives? How do stress and anxiety contribute to our downfall? Here are some of the frequently asked questions that might hold the answers.

What Does The Mental Health Problem Feel Like?

Debilitating anxiety usually comes from a series of panic attacks where it produces an intense, overwhelming sensation of fear that is unnecessary and way out of control. This extreme and crippling disorder is typically accompanied by shaking, sweating, chest tightness, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, nausea, and fear of dying or going crazy.

Note that some of these anxiety symptoms might not be visible as some of us may have the proper knowledge to treat these kinds of disorders. But of course, we should not take our health for granted. These signs may be common, but the underlying reasons for experiencing them can be much worse.

How Do I Overcome The Mental Health Condition?

This type of disorder can cause a lot of trouble if ignored. So to address the mental health problem, you must set aside the worries. Yes, it is okay to feel worried about something. However, you need to step back and take a few deep breaths to change your perspective toward debilitating anxiety and acute anxiety health symptoms. It will help if you try to get it out of your head and reduce stress.

What Do You Call Extreme Worry?

An extreme level of worry or anxiety is also known as panic attacks or panic disorder. It is an overwhelming, intense, and often uncontrollable feeling of fear and anxiety disorder that often gets accompanied by physical symptoms, including headache, nausea, shakiness, shortness of breath, and stomach pain.

What Happens When You Go To The ER With Debilitating Anxiety?

Directly heading towards an ER for an acute anxiety situation will most likely help with the alarming symptoms that people may be experiencing with the mental health condition. The doctor can perform a few tests to oversee the current mental state so that he can administer advice or medicine to calm you down. But before engaging in any therapies or medication treatment, you must discuss the symptoms with your doctor or a therapist to better understand what you must do and what treatment options are best for you.

What Does A Severe Panic Attack Feel Like?

Though people experience different symptoms of a panic attack or anxiety disorder, the most common that everyone with the mental health issue share includes physical and mental problems such as shortness of breath, trembling, sweating, having a racing heart, restlessness, feeling a loss of control or safety, and having unrealistic fear of something.

How Long Does The Condition Flare-up Last?

Anxiety flare-up, commonly known as panic attacks, often starts suddenly without warning. The mental health symptoms peak after 10 minutes and frequently fade away after 30 minutes. In some unfortunate instances, the effects may last longer than expected. Though anxiety disorders flare generally do not speak in this way, some people can experience an escalated situation where their mild anxiety leads to panic attacks.

Why Do I Have Constant Anxiety?

Experiencing constant anxiety disorders depends from one person to another. However, the usual reason that this disorder occurs is daily stressors. These could be traffic jams, missed appointments, work deadlines, school projects, financial insufficiencies, etc. If not handled well, this mild condition can lead to long-term or chronic stress, eventually worsening symptoms and creating other health problems.

Can An Anxiety Attack Last For Hours?

Unfortunately, yes. An anxiety attack is an intense feeling that often takes a while to go away. If the condition already becomes a disorder, the symptoms can be severe and last from minutes to an hour, even days, weeks, and even years. It generally affects your thinking, relationship with your loved ones, and sleeping patterns, usually leading to insomnia.

How Can I Calm My Physical Anxiety?

Calming your anxiety should start with self-care. That is why you need to stay active and find time to exercise regularly. You must avoid unhealthy foods and prioritize hydrating your mind and body by drinking enough water daily. Avoid too much caffeine and alcohol consumption, as these two can cause dehydration. Prioritize sleep and always make it a habit to rest for at least 8 to 10 hours every night.

How Can I Express The Feelings Of Nervousness, Worry, Or Fear I Have In Certain Situations?

Anxiety increases your breathing and heart rate in just a short period. This is a natural fear response of our body. That is because of its concentrated blood flow to your brain. This physical response signifies that your mind and body are preparing you to face an intense situation. However, If this sensation gets too intense, you might feel nauseous and lightheaded.

Can I Get Rid Of The Nervousness That Bother Me By Not Paying Attention To Them, Or Will They Stay And Get Worse As Time Passes?

Ignoring your anxiety doesn’t help you, as it does not make it go away. Sometimes, when you ignore it, it worsens and becomes chronic, which eventually persists, and symptoms become uncontrollable. To better address the mental health situation, seek mental health professional help.

What Are Some Effective Strategies Or Remedies That Can Help Me Cope With The Physical Symptoms Such As Nausea, Dizziness, Or Headache?

If you feel sick from severe anxiety, you can try eating a small amount of something dry. It could be plain bread or plain crackers. Then, slowly sip water after. You must ensure your body is well cared for to feel too weird. If you are wearing tight outfits, try changing into some clothes that don’t restrict your stomach. Try to calm yourself and take a couple of deep breaths to get rid of the physical symptoms.

Takeaway

Remember that debilitating anxiety is not something you can control easily. Sometimes, you might need others’ help with the proper ways or methods you need to work on. Yes, proper self-care and self-awareness can be beneficial. But for severe anxiety, you need more than just a positive mindset. Thus, if you struggle with this disorder, always seek health advice from a therapist or a doctor who understands your condition. That way, you can learn more about the suitable options to help with your mental illness, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, commitment therapy, and medication.

What Is Considered Debilitating Anxiety?

How Do You Calm Debilitating Anxiety?

Can Anxiety Become Debilitating?

What Is The Highest Level Of Anxiety?

How Long Does Debilitating Anxiety Last?

How do you deal with friends struggling with mental health disorders?

Everyone goes through life with a support system. These support systems include parents, family, friends, romantic partners, co-workers, and others. Next to blood relations, friendships are the second most valuable relationships any person will have in his or her entire life. It is an attachment between two or more people built on mutual concern and interest in each other.

Forging Friendships And Its Benefits

Friends are there for you not only in your successes but also in tough times. Having friends is an incredible thing for your mental, emotional, and physical health. It can also help with conflict resolution; school clubs and other communities can bolster your friend’s mental health.

Having great friends makes your life better. It is beneficial to have someone you can trust and carry you in times of trouble. Studies have shown that building friendships helps you with health problems as it increases your serotonin levels, making you happier and less lonely and stressed.

The companionship provided by your friends can also give you a sense of belongingness, as you are now part of a social circle. The benefits of having friends may also manifest in your physical health because you have people with whom you can do healthy activities.

It is gratifying to find a tribe formed by connection and not just forced by blood relations. However, it is also best to be wary. Friends play a vital role in shaping you as an individual. They influence your personality, behavior, and interests more than you think. So be careful whom you’re making friends with.

Mental Illness: Challenging Friendships

Like many things in life, friendships go through rough patches. Some friendships that began early in your life have to end at one point. Some experience a falling out because of irreconcilable differences. Others fail to survive the drastic changes that happen over the years, so they move forward with their lives separately.

Our friends may be fighting secret battles we know nothing about like friends with mental health disorders.  One good example of this is having friends with mental health problems. The thought of having someone close to you diagnosed with something so serious can be grueling and worrisome.

Mental disorders or mental health problems affect many functions in an individual, including behavioral and personality changes. Be prepared since there will be moments when your friend may shut you out, which can make communication tricky. Also, expect that your friend may turn down invitations to go out and socialize.

Showing Support To Your Friends With Mental Health Problems

Life is not easy. But life is twice as hard for people troubled with mental disabilities. There is still a strong stigma clouding the subject that many who suffer from disorders refuse professional care and support. Recovery can be a long and difficult process, but with supportive friends and family, it will become much easier.

Here are a few ways on what you need to do when your friend is struggling with a psychological health disorder and how you can show your support in his/her battle:

Accept That Your Friend Will Have Limitations 

Supporting a friend with a mental health problem means understanding where they are. People with mental illness issues, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, etc., often have a difficult time with some day-to-day activities. As mentioned before, there will be days when your friend may feel sad and down. Driving someone to do something when they are having a dreary day will only further push them away from you.

Avoid Spreading Speculations 

While it’s hard to have a mental illness, opening up about it is another challenge. Avoid telling other people, even family members, the condition of your friend, as it is a sensitive topic for them. It is not an easy journey for your friend, and it will be helpful that it remains confidential between you. Any person with this illness will appreciate you for giving them the autonomy to share about it themselves when they’re ready to do so.

Listen Attentively To Your Friends

Everyone faces difficulties in life. There are times when you may feel exhausted as you also have burdens to carry. However, it is critical for people with mental illnesses to have someone who pays close attention to them and what they have to say. Family and friends are important to help with the main content of suicide prevention.

They need outlets and vents for what they are feeling. It doesn’t have to be every day; your emotional support can simply be being there with them and letting them know you are more than willing to lend your ear when needed.

Do Not Judge

The last thing a friend with a mental health problem needs is someone who judges their choices or condition. They need someone who can be beside them and someone to reassure them that they will get better.

Talk with Your Friend or Family Member 

When you offer support, make sure to understand their feelings. Have a conversation and discuss what you can do to help them. Most people who want to help may unconsciously become overbearing. Learn to accept that their recovery may not necessarily involve you or even their families. In fact, recovery often involves treatment such as therapy and medication. It may also be better for them to find support groups with similar struggles and experiences. 

If the person struggling is a family member, approach the topic with tact. Remember that family dynamics may come into play and they may not open up to you immediately. 

The most important thing is that your friend or family member has a sense of safety that allows them to talk about their issues.  

Learn More About Mental Health

This might be the most essential thing you need to do when you have a friend with a psychological disorder. Familiarize yourself with the condition so you can help your friend get better and to take better care of them. It is also helpful in nurturing your friendship.

Friends For Life

This might be the most essential thing you need to do when you have a friend with a psychological disorder. Familiarize yourself with the condition so you can help your friend or family member get better and take better care of them. This is also helpful because you’ll know how to better voice out your concerns and worry and not seem too ignorant.  

Being a friend doesn’t just mean being there during prosperity. It also means holding on to them even when the road is rough. If you have a friend who struggles with a mental health illness, just knowing that you are there for them is enough. Amid taking care of friends or family members, do not forget to find to take care of yourself too.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What To Do If You Have A Friend With Mental Health Issues?

Why Do I Attract Friends With Mental Health Issues?

What Do You Say To Friends With Mental Health Issues?

How Can I Talk To A Friend About Mental Health Issues?

When Should You Walk Away From A Friend With A Mental Illness?

How Do You Break Up With A Mentally Unstable Friend?

How Can I Help A Family Member With Mental Health Issues?

How Can Parents Help Their Children With Mental Health Issues? 

How Do Toxic Friends Affect Your Mental Health?

Is My Friend Toxic Or Am I?

Why Do People Stay In Unhealthy Friendships?

How Do You Know If Someone Isn’t Good For Your Mental Health?

How do you respect someone with mental illness?

How do you comfort a friend with health problems?

How do toxic friends affect your mental health?

Should you stay with someone with mental health issues?

Will someone love me if I have a mental illness?

When should you walk away from a friend with a mental illness?

What treatment should a friend with mental health issues undergo? 

School clubs can be a quintessential part of every child’s life. Despite the academic challenges that come from taking classes and preparing for tests, many students still join clubs. People find fulfillment in joining groups, so they see the increased workload worthwhile.

However, what exactly do students get from joining school clubs? It turns out that club participation has beneficial effects on mental health, as clubs can act as a second family.

Providing Support Systems

The most direct benefit of school clubs is that they allow students to meet new people. Clubs revolve around a particular interest, so its members are more likely to bond over shared interests.

Since clubs often take members from various levels, they are an excellent venue for meeting people outside your classroom. Many students find companions within clubs, allowing them to expand their circle of friends.

Like a family, a health club offers a robust support system for members. Participants have shared experiences that bond them together. This solidarity allows the group to become closely knit.

Many members feel secure as a part of the club, trusting the members enough to share any problems they may have in life. They can expect to receive emotional support from the group, and in turn, they also reach out to other struggling members. It is almost as good as getting psychological assistance from platforms like BetterHelp.

The support system offered by student organizations is suited to the challenges that children face in school. In these groups, members have other students as peers. Their similarities mean that the kids can better relate to one another and think of corresponding solutions.

Improved Academic Performance

Some parents think that school clubs are a distraction from classes. However, more often than not, academic performance improves when the student joins a club. Indicators of academic achievements, such as grades, test scores, and study habits, are higher for students who join organizations.

School clubs indeed require commitments in terms of time and effort. However, being a member also teaches children to take increasing amounts of responsibility. Activities such as organizing club events require a level of agency and self-efficacy, which can translate into other areas of life.

Furthermore, some clubs are academic. For example, some clubs might focus on particular fields such as chemistry or music. Other organizations might specialize in helping students succeed in certain activities like debate or quiz bees. By their very nature, joining these organizations will directly improve your academic performance.

Cultivating Social Skills

Another mental benefit of joining organizations is that kids get to interact with more people. While club members tend to have common interests, they still come from a wide range of backgrounds.

Diversity means that children get to interact with many people of varying personalities and work ethics. Hence, they will have to develop social skills to form working relationships with diverse sets of people.

Most club projects require teamwork and coordination, so students need to work together to achieve their goals. They are also excellent avenues for developing leadership skills, encouraging your child to lead projects and to delegate the work at hand.

Club members need to learn conflict resolution; school clubs often have projects that will require students to set aside personal differences to focus on achieving larger goals. They need to learn to cooperate with others, even those who might have personalities incompatible with theirs.

Clubs are a great way to build confidence and self-esteem, especially as they achieve their milestones.  Being a club leader is more challenging, but it can help kids learn crucial leadership lessons that they will use throughout their lives.

Organizations are also hotbeds of creativity. Members frequently brainstorm by discussing issues and figuring out possible strategies. They then formulate plans to achieve their goals.

Action-oriented problem solving enforces the mindset that ability is a product of hard work and strategic thinking. In turn, adopting this mindset allows the organization, and its members, to perform better.

As Andy Tix, Ph.D. puts it, “one of the basic psychological determinants of a student’s performance involves how they explain failure and success to themselves.”

It might seem that only extroverted students get to reap the social benefits of clubs, but this is false. Even introverts can find camaraderie in a student organization. With co-members that accept them as who they are, they might also learn to become more outgoing through these groups.

Maximizing Benefits

To get the best benefits of joining school organizations, students must be careful in choosing which clubs to enter. They should take into account both their interests and the culture that’s promoted internally by the organization.

It’s wise to choose only a few clubs to allow for deeper engagement instead of joining several clubs but being unable to dedicate enough time for each.

On days when the school allows organizations to highlight themselves to potential applicants, students should consider the clubs that pique their interest. They should then research to narrow down their choices. It’s good for them to speak with someone from the clubs themselves to get a clear picture of the club experience. 

Finally, students who join clubs should be able to dedicate enough time and energy without compromising other aspects of their lives. If they find themselves sacrificing their academic performance or family time, it might be time to reevaluate their membership.

Overall, clubs are a great way to gain a support group, improve academic performance, and learn social skills. If you’re a student, take note of these benefits the next time your school hosts an organization fair. Join a club now and grab the experience of a second family!

Have you ever been in a situation where you get and don’t get someone’s point at the same time?

That’s my experience while reading the news about organizations that rallied against the government’s quarantine orders. I understood why they did not want to stay at home for too long; they had to work to survive. However, I also found that self-isolation could keep the virus from spreading; that’s why the new regulation was not out of line at all.

Instead of wasting my energy by changing the protesters’ views, I choose to focus on frontline workers. They are our modern-day heroes who suffer more than anyone during the pandemic, to be honest. Below are a few things we can do to make their life easier.

Follow The Rules

Uniformed men and women have been stationed at almost every entry and exit point in various states to reduce the chances of letting infected people in and spreading the virus. The nurses and doctors also work hard in hospitals—real or makeshift—as the number of COVID-19 patients is not slowing down much. In other words, they serve more individuals than they can handle.

If you wish to ease their lives at work, you need to start following the new rules diligently:

• Do not leave the house for insignificant reasons, e.g., partying, gambling, working out at the gym or any public place, etc.
• Wear a face mask every time you step out of the door.
• Put a wide berth between you and anyone else in public.

Avoid Lying About Your Health Status

A significant number of COVID-19 patients are frontline workers, and people wonder how that has happened. They ask, “Don’t the doctors know the proper handling of infected individuals?” “Don’t the nurses or uniformed officers wear face masks and other protective gear?”

The answer to both questions is that yes, these frontline workers are well-knowledgeable on how to look after themselves while taking care of others. However, many still end up falling ill because some patients lie about their health status.

I found a fitting example of that while watching international news. A couple of months ago, a Philippine senator walked in a hospital to accompany his wife, who was supposed to give birth. However, he did not inform any staff that he had coronavirus symptoms and was waiting for the results of his medical testing. When it turned out that the senator indeed had COVID-19, he left the hospital at once but not before potentially spreading the virus to unsuspecting hospital personnel.

Show Your Gratefulness Towards Them

Whether the frontline workers are at the borders or in the hospitals, they are expected to work harder than ever due to the pandemic. For instance, when patrolling the entry and exit points in the cities, they need to check every car and scan anyone who wants to enter or leave the area. In health facilities, there may not be enough medical professionals to accommodate all the COVID-19 patients, but they cannot turn them away, so they tend to work overtime. Every single day since the outbreak, therefore, their stress level may already be larger than life.

Now, it is unrealistic to think that you can give them a day off and save the day to show your gratefulness to them. You want to ease their load, but you may not have been trained to do what they are doing for everyone. Instead, you should always thank and smile at them and avoid toeing the line all the time. Even if you cannot stop others from breaking the rules, what matters is that you don’t add to the frontline workers’ problems.

Final Thoughts

Stop trying to question the government’s decision to put everyone under quarantine. Their idea has already been tried and tested—hide if you can’t fight the enemy. Your focus should be on the frontline workers’ welfare, especially now that they are doing their best to protect us from COVID-19.

The lockdown that persists in different states in the US is challenging not only for adults but also for kids. I am not even talking about the fact that they have been required to finish the school year by homeschooling. For sure, they do not mind staying at home and not getting up early every day. However, it may be troublesome for them to be inside the house 24/7 when their friends are not too far away.

No matter how much you want to go out, dear child, don’t do it. That is especially true if your mom or dad is in the military and serves as a front-line worker these days. Instead, show them your love through the following ways:

Send Voice And Video Messages

The most basic way to express love for hardworking parents is by sending them voice and video messages. After all, a lot of military moms and dads may not be able to go home every day because of their duties. Some may even want to stay out of the house for as long as possible if they suspect themselves of having the coronavirus.

If the parents hear your voice or see your face, it can make them want to protect themselves further. This way, they can be with the family soon.

Help Prepare Delicious Meals For Them

Plenty of military parents who go to the bases in the United States tend to work alongside healthcare professionals. That is especially true for those who have a medical background. The others take turns operating the checkpoints and making sure that no one roams the streets.

Assuming your at-home parent sends meals to your military mom or dad every day, why don’t you help prepare their meals? This task can be done even by toddlers, you know. You can do something as easy as spooning the dish into the container or decorating it in any way you please. In case you are old enough to hold a knife, you can chop the ingredients. After that, attach a little note on the food container to brighten your parent’s day.

Stop Fighting With Siblings

Sometimes, moms and dads become happy when they know that all the kids, young or old, are getting along. They may not need you to give them anything; you merely have to show them that you and your siblings are not fighting.

This technique is most useful if your parent has been deployed overseas. You cannot give them hot meals; they may be too busy to FaceTime with you. But if your stay-at-home mom or dad informs the military parent that you are not acting like cats and dogs, they will undoubtedly feel at ease.

Stay At Home

Although your military parent may be giving their 110% at work, half of their mind may still be focused on your welfare. After all, the coronavirus is unforgiving when it comes to its victims. It is especially terrible for kids because their immune system may not be strong enough to fight the disease.

To keep your mom or dad from worrying, therefore, you should stay at home all the time. Do not sneak out to visit your friend’s house, even if it is only next door. Try not to insist on going to the nearby park, either. The quarantine will not last forever; just hang in there for yourself and your parents.

Final Thoughts

Now is not the best time to become a rebellious kid. Your mom and dad need you to be mentally and physically resilient right now, especially if one or both of them are in active duty. Show them how much you love them by doing the things mentioned above. Good luck!