The Covid-19 pandemic has prompted a surge in youngsters self-harming, according to a school in North Wales. Ysgol John Bright has also reported an increase in anxiety, eating disorders and absences from school. School administrators and mental health workers say that this is a common problem among children today. Leaders in education and the Welsh government have recognised that attendance is a national priority and have increased funding to support students’ mental wellbeing.
Millie Jones, who runs the inclusion zone at Ysgol John Bright, says that there has been an increase in social anxiety and self-harm alongside extreme reactions to daily life. To cope with the rise in behavior issues, inclusion zones provide a space for learners currently unable to cope in normal classes. School staff has noted that various mental health issues, including anxiety, have quadrupled since before the Covid-19 outbreak. The school caters for over 1,000 pupils, and staff said that it has marked an acceleration in issues.
Hywel Parry, the school’s headteacher, adds that education was always going to face a changing landscape with the first generations who have lived in a household with smartphones. However, he finds it challenging to rebuild relationships with parents and pupils as society moves on from Covid. Funding cuts to schools are also a concern as mental health issues “snowball” without additional support.
Mental health workers point out that it is often the school teachers who notice the first problems. Many referrals are now complex, and children are struggling to engage with their regular classes. The drive to achieve a perfect set of exams is putting most students under an increased strain.
Wales’ children commissioner, Rocio Cifuentes, has noticed that the pandemic’s impact still has a significant negative impact on children. The education system’s recovery needs extensive investment for years to come for a student’s mental wellbeing. The Welsh government has recognised this important issue by allocating £13.6m to support schools with wellbeing initiatives
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