To promote school-based health, efforts must be made to identify, establish and execute school programs that give every student the tools they need to succeed in a supportive learning environment, according to the American School Health Association (ASHA.) School-based health and wellness centers are significant as they allow an improvement in school attendance, advance our academic and health goals and encourage students to feel comfortable in the classroom. Because of this, they should be implemented in all schools. So, what are the benefits of school-based health and wellness centers, and why do we have them?
There are many benefits of school-based health and wellness centers. According to BYU News, learning to manage mental health is a part of school wellness programs. Additionally, it allows students to be physically, emotionally and socially cared for. Students can discuss their mental health by establishing wellness centers and receiving guidance. If students are not feeling their best, they can experience challenges with focusing during class. By implementing school-based wellness centers, this can be prevented as it helps students succeed in their academics.
Furthermore, students can be willing to talk about important issues such as depression, anxiety, etc. Psychiatrists are available to help students deal with their mental health and can create treatments for those struggling with these issues. Students can also take sports, vision, hearing and health education exams. Alongside this, therapy can be given through mental health services, after-school programs, between child and family and counseling groups.
MCPS is making it their job to embed several school-based health centers in elementary and high schools. This includes Gaithersburg Elementary School, Harmony Hills Elementary School, Highland Elementary School, JoAnn Leleck Elementary at Broad Acres, New Hampshire Estates Elementary School, Rolling Terrace Elementary School, Summit Hall Elementary School, Viers Mill Elementary School and Weller Road Elementary School. The high schools with these centers available are Gaithersburg High School, Kennedy High School, Northwood High School, Seneca Valley High School, Watkins Mill High School and Wheaton High School. Physical care, behavioral health, oral health and group health education are the resources involved. In addition, students can receive assistance with illnesses or be taught about the benefits of healthy eating and physical activity. A nurse, a mental health provider, a health educator and a dental hygienist may facilitate these centers. Some school-based health centers also offer group discussions and activities, which can help students feel more comfortable engaging and speaking about significant topics. They are available to students and family members, thus creating a safe environment for everyone, not just students. Some centers are open beyond school, including weekends, the night or after school.
School-based health and wellness centers help reevaluate well-being. This can include changing behavior and helping people adopt and maintain healthy habits. They can affect our emotional, physical and mental well-being as well. Their support helps individuals achieve a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. With these centers, students improve their performance, test scores and overall learning. Wellness is important for students to succeed in school, and wellness centers guarantee to boost it. Students can improve their wellness by supporting these centers. More information about Wellness Center and Wellness Center initiative at School-Based Health Centers, School Health Services – School Based Health and Wellness Centers and at Health Services at School-Based Health Center Sites.
Written by Miley Thomas of Seneca Valley HS and Montgomery Virtual Academy
Photo Courtesy of Penn State Beaver