ill or poor mental health
Further information:
Follow this link for videos for teachers by teachers with helpful advice and support on mental health https://www.bbc.co.uk/teach/teacher-support/new-mental-health-and-wellbeing-support-for-teachers/z4g4scw
DfE guidance on mental health and well being
https:/www.gov.uk/government/publications/mental-health-and-behaviour-in-schools--2#history
Mental health itself is a factor. Ill mental health can sometimes be hereditary, a growing body of research has found that certain genes and gene variations are associated with mental health issues and disorders. Meaning, certain mental illnesses tend to run in families, and having a close relative with a mental disorder could mean children are at a higher risk of inheriting it (National Institute of Mental Health, 2018). As a teachers not only form relationships with their students but also their parents and guardians. Having these relationships may mean that parents and guardians feel more comfortable with you and are able to create a dialogue about these more sensitive issues. This in turn may help you to support your students better and get them and their family the support they may need (BBC teach, 2018).
Additionally, the Mental Health Foundation (2019) estimated that there are approximately 175,000 children in the UK caring for their parents or family members with mental health problems. This has been found to have a detrimental effect on the children's mental health and well being. These young carers may feel isolated as they are not having the same experiences and relationships as their peers. As practitioners we can help by making mental health visible throughout the curriculum and school to ensure children do not feel isolated and remove any stigma (Pykitt, 2019, p113). Later in this guide we will cover the ways in which this can be implemented. Additionally, in November 2018 the DfE published non-statutory guidance on mental health and behaviour to support children whose behaviour stems from mental health problems. This is a useful resource as it offers key points and principles to support and promote good mental health and well being (see link to report below).