Coping Mechanisms and SEL

December 11, 2021

Avery Davis

As a result of COVID-19, many have recognized the need for help, and are seeking it in various ways. This school year, the district introduced SEL, to provide for students struggling with mental health. However, students have varied opinions about what methods of coping are helpful.

Gudenkauf explains how the district aims to use SEL to better prepare students to cope with their mental health.

“At Mill Valley, across the district, across the state and across the nation, we are seeing an increase in adolescent mental health struggles,” Gudenkauf said. “This district recognizes the need and has been gathering data to determine what and where the needs may be highest.  We’ve also implemented the social emotional curriculum to better equip students.”

 Baumgart appreciates SEL but feels there are flaws in how it is implemented.

It’s not that they don’t want to do it or they’re not doing a good job. They’re doing the best they can, but they don’t have the education or the background to deal with mental health.”

“I’m happy that the district has noticed that mental health is an issue and they’re wanting to address it, but I don’t think SEL is the best way to do it,” Baumgart said. “It’s put on, say, a history teacher, or a math teacher to tell you how to deal with mental health. They didn’t go to school to be a mental health counselor. It’s not that they don’t want to do it or they’re not doing a good job. They’re doing the best they can, but they don’t have the education or the background to deal with mental health.”

 The anonymous female thinks SEL lessons, which are during seminar, have negative effects on students with heavy workloads.

“I wish that it wasn’t taken out of a time that is used for people to study and calm down, but was used during a different time where everyone is able to put their full selves into it and be able to actually learn and actually be present,” the female said.

According to Gudenkauf, “opening the conversation and working to eliminate any stigma attached to a mental health diagnosis,” a goal of implementing SEL, is important in combating mental health struggles.

 Similarly, Smith believes people should be willing to listen to someone of any age about their mental health.

“Be good humans, listen to the child like you would an adult,” Smith said. “They may not be as experienced as you but they have some demons and they want some help to fight them off.”

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