Good mental health promotes learning and, at a later stage, employment and active participation in society and public affairs. As such, since 2012, we have been offering the services of a psychologist in one of our city’s schools, both on an individual and group level.
Individual support focused both on educational issues (exam and grade anxiety, academic failure, aggression and disobedience, lack of interest, school absenteeism) and personal/family matters (smoking, substance abuse, health problems, depression, grief management, low self-esteem, divorced parents, etc.).
Regarding group services, a hands-on anger management program was implemented titled: “Turning Anger into Personal Strength.” Through the program’s 8 sessions, students had the opportunity to recognize, express, and manage their emotions: to identify signs of anger, learn simple anger management techniques, understand the importance of inner dialogue, etc.
At the same time, collaboration was established with educators. Presentations were held on classroom and behaviour management techniques, aiming at effective student-teacher communication and the prevention of conflicts. There were also cases in which parental counselling was necessary to help parents manage their teenagers.
This initiative has revealed positive and hopeful results. We are pleased to see that such efforts benefit not only individuals but also the entire school climate, improving it overall. Psychological support in schools responds to the psychosocial needs of students and their families and helps in the development and adjustment of children and adolescents within the educational — and broader — environment.
Our goal through this program is the overall improvement of students’ quality of life, which in turn enhances their academic performance and development and facilitates their smooth integration into the social framework.
As part of our awareness and information activities, the following were also carried out:
- Awareness campaigns in collaboration with AEL football players against bullying and racism.
- Experiential workshops conducted by a certified psychologist from KEPAKY’s Psychological Support Program.
- Experiential workshops for the staff of PROTEAS and KEPAKY aimed at stress relief and empowerment.