Mental Health Awareness Week, hosted by the Mental Health Foundation since 2001, will occur from May 12th to 18th, 2025. This year’s theme is "Community," highlighting the profound impact of connections and support networks on mental well-being. This week is particularly significant for the primary education sector as it coincides with the SATs from May 12th to 15th—a stressful period for pupils and educators.
Understanding and embracing mental health is crucial, especially during such high-pressure times. Here’s how you can make Mental Health Awareness Week a supportive and enriching experience for your school community:
The importance of community
Strong communities provide a sense of belonging, safety, and purpose. During Mental Health Awareness Week, we can celebrate and foster these connections within our schools to promote better mental health.
Advice for parents
Engage in open conversations: Talk to your child about their feelings, especially during SATs. Let them know it’s okay to be nervous and that their best effort is what truly matters.
Create routine: Establishing routines at home can provide stability and reduce anxiety during exam preparations.
Support school initiatives: Participate in school events and activities related to Mental Health Awareness Week to show your support and help build a stronger community.
Advice for Children
Express your feelings: Use arts and crafts to express emotions. Drawing or painting can be a therapeutic way to handle stress. However, some children may reduce stress through physical activity and playing sports.
Connect with friends: Spend time with friends to feel more supported and relaxed—team up for study sessions or playtime to balance work and fun.
Take care of yourself: Remember to take breaks, get plenty of sleep, and eat healthy meals. These simple practices can significantly boost your mood and focus.
Advice for educators and teachers
Create an inclusive environment: Encourage pupils to participate and share their experiences. An inclusive classroom fosters a sense of belonging.
Share resources: Utilise Mental Health Foundation resources to integrate mental health practices into your teaching. Implement mindfulness exercises to help students start their day calmly.
Provide reassurance: During SATs, reassure your pupils that exams measure learning, not worth. Help them manage expectations and celebrate their efforts.
Top tips to focus on mental health
Embracing mental health during Mental Health Awareness Week can be simple yet effective:
Foster connections: Promote activities that encourage collaboration and bonding among pupils. Strong peer relationships are crucial for mental well-being.
Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge and celebrate individual and group academic and personal achievements. Positive reinforcement can boost confidence and morale.
Manage stress: Introduce stress management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or short mindfulness sessions, to help pupils stay calm and focused.
As SATs week and Mental Health Awareness Week converge, it’s the perfect opportunity to prioritise mental wellness in our school communities. By celebrating the power of community and implementing supportive practices, we can ensure our children succeed academically and thrive emotionally.
Let’s build a nurturing environment where mental health is valued as education. Visit the Mental Health Foundation for more resources and ways to get involved.