Question

What are some Direct Instructions Strategies for teaching children about what it means to be emotionally or mentally healthy, include the modeling strategies for instruction, guided practice activity that would be whole group to check for understanding, and an independent practice activity.

Answer 1

In the fast paced moving world, people are engrossed in their professional life , leading a sedentary lifestyle. Even kids are in a hurry that they are devoid of time to keep them hale and hearty. Apart from physical health issues , a major chunk of the society suffer due to mental health issues, to a large extent.It is time to open up about the importance to be given in being happy ,emotionally

The ability to have control over one’s emotions plays a paramount role in emotional well being.A person who suppreses his feeling is not considered as emotionally healthy as a person who is exposed to express his feeling in a subtle way.Our day to day life a blend of ups and downs.An emotionally stable person can handle distress smoothly. That is where emotional agility comes to play. This does not mean that the negatives leave them unaffected always.It is all about the open mind,with which one can overcome all set backs.

Self awareness,self acceptance ,self care and coping skills are characteristics of a mentally healthy person.Practicing these skills when times are at peace will lead to higher levels of resilience when things are worse.

DIRECT INSTRUCTION STRATEGIES :

· We need to be prepared to face the adversities of real life. A school indirectly prepares all the pupils to face the real world ,which is not a piece of cake.

· Englightment should be given to children right from their formative years ,because that is when pupils are tightly bound under the tutelage of a pedagog.They have to understand that taking care of one’s mental health goes a long way in shaping the overall well being.

· Younger children should be taught to behave in a kind manner to everyone they meet ,because we never know the struggles they are going though.

· Pupils should also know the expertise in managing stress. Being human means facing hurdles of real life.

· It is very important to educate children about wide variety to emotions and ways to tackle them .This will shape them to lead the rest of their lives ,which may not be bed of roses.

· Repression of emotions has a direct influence on emotional health.Importance of seeking help ,when required need to be clearly explained.

· Helping to increase awareness of emotions aids in improving emotional health.

· Emotional health enables people to experience and express both positive and negative emotions in an equilibrium .A proper training regarding this can frame better individuals and result in global well being.

According to World Health Organisation, ‘Mental health is a dynamic state of internal equilibrium that enables individuals to use their abilities in harmony with the universal values of society.’

ACTIVITIES TO AMELIORATE ONE’S EMOTIONAL HEALTH :

· In the wake of globalization ,people are connected for their professional goals.Apart from that having a few supportive friends can positively impact the mental health. Reach out to the people in your life whom you consider as constant pillars of support. Let people close to you know when something is bothering you.

· Spend some time outdoors.Remember ,you can be too busy to find inner peace.The fresh air,chirping of birds,natural sights and strengthen inner peace.A beachside always calms down emotions.

· Exercise exhausts the state of being anxious.Physical activity helps in ameliorating emotional health .

· Write or speak about the emotions can aid in helping the constructive release of those emotions.

· A meditation helps in strengthening emotional awareness . It makes it possible to give some space for self introspection rather than escaping from realities.Yoga is really helpful. . Relaxation exercises can improve your state of mind . Deep breathing also helps.After the mediation ,you can discover a mentally powerful version of you .

· Be bold to use the word ‘NO ‘ whenever required .If someone asks you to do something you absolutely can't do, say no.

· Avoid situations where you feel negativity. Notice what in your life makes you sad, frustrated, or angry.

· Volunteering in charity organizations boosts self esteem and self image. This is considered as a wellness activity because the sense of pride and self satisfaction in helping is not comparable to any materialistic thing.

· Treat yourself with respect and kindness.Self blaming needs to be avoided at all costs.Inculcate feelings of self esteem.

· Manage Your time by setting weekly goals. If you try to do more than you can handle, you will only end up frustrated and stressed out.

· Getting a good dose of sleep can relieve you from distress and this can enhance productivity. Take care of your physical health. Your physical health can affect your emotional health. Exercise regularly, eat healthy meals, and get enough sleep.

· Develop passion about a new hobby that brings you a sense of satisfaction and joy .This will develop a feeling of self worth.