Recognize warning signs of mental health needs

Naturally, teachers should prioritize safety above all else and have resources they can use to intervene in situations when student behavior has escalated. Resources are available for teachers dealing with mental health issues in their classrooms at MentalHealth.gov, a service provided by the US Departments of Health and Human Services and Education.

They note warning signs that could mean a student needs assistance, such as the following: acting depressed or reclusive for longer than two weeks; sudden, overwhelming fear for no apparent reason; occasionally accompanied by a racing heart or rapid breathing; extreme difficulty concentrating or remaining still that puts the student in danger physically or causes problems in the classroom; severe mood swings that disrupt relationships. If you detect any of the warning signals on this list, consult a school counselor or suggest that the student contact a mental health specialist.