The Kennedy Forum Illinois

Programs of The Kennedy Forum Illinois

The Kennedy Forum Illinois

  • Back to School: The Mental Health Impact on Students and Education

Back to School: The Mental Health Impact on Students and Education

Tuesday 31st August 2021

Discover how schools are tackling mental health challenges post-COVID-19, focusing on support for students and educators.
56 minutes
Informative
Supportive
Transformative
Hopeful
Compassionate

About this podcast

Programs of The Kennedy Forum Illinois
Author:
The Kennedy Forum Illinois
Overview:
Categories:
Body & Mind
Stigma & Social Perspectives
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Parenting & Children
Financial Health in Recovery
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
3 (View all)
Rounded Button Dark
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!

Back to School Blues: Tackling Mental Health in Education Post-COVID

School represents an enormous opportunity to strengthen mental health safety nets around youth, but it is certainly not what it could be, and it should be a safe and supportive environment for students who do not have outside means for ensuring social and emotional well-being.
Imagine returning to school after a year of remote learning, only to face a new set of challenges. That's the reality for students and educators today. This episode of 'Programs of The Kennedy Forum Illinois' dives into the mental health impact of returning to in-person learning amidst ongoing uncertainty. Former Congressman Patrick J. Kennedy sets the stage for a panel discussion that doesn't shy away from tough topics. The panel, moderated by education reporter Susie An, features experts like Dr.
Janice Beal, Amy Kennedy, Juan Salgado, and Dr. Jose Torres. They discuss how the pandemic has widened educational disparities and the urgent need to support mental health in schools. Dr. Beal highlights the racial disparities exacerbated by COVID-19 and civil unrest, emphasizing the school's role in promoting mental health. Dr. Torres, interim CEO of Chicago Public Schools, talks about the obstacles educators face in providing mental health services, from lack of resources to time constraints.
Yet, he remains hopeful, noting the increased focus on mental health during the pandemic as a positive step forward. Amy Kennedy, a former teacher and mother of five, stresses the importance of building relationships with students and families and offering virtual mental health services. Juan Salgado, chancellor of the City Colleges of Chicago, calls for systematic changes to support student mental health, advocating for healing-centered projects within schools.
This episode provides a thorough look at the mental health challenges in education post-COVID-19 and explores various ways institutions are working to support students, teachers, and parents. It's a must-listen for anyone invested in the well-being of our educational community.