Tuesday 21 Jan 2025
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A student of mine recently approached me, overwhelmed by the weight of juggling her responsibilities. She spoke about the pressure to meet her parents’ expectations, excel in her studies, maintain friendships and prepare for the demands of an unforgiving workforce. Her story is not unique. Across classrooms and boardrooms, young people face mounting pressures, and mental health challenges have become alarmingly common. This is where the collective responsibility of educators, employers and parents comes into play. Supporting students’ mental health and resilience requires a holistic approach, with all parties working together to help young people navigate these challenges and build the mental strength to thrive.

The rise in mental health concerns among students is well documented. According to the World Health Organization, one in seven adolescents experiences mental health issues such as anxiety and depression (WHO, 2024). As educators, we witness firsthand how these struggles affect students’ academic performance and their ability to cope with life’s demands. These challenges often go beyond the classroom, affecting personal relationships and students’ readiness for the professional world.

For educators, creating an environment that supports mental health is crucial. Encouraging open conversations about stress and emotional well-being helps reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. When students feel safe discussing their struggles, they are more likely to seek help. In addition, integrating resilience-building activities into the curriculum, such as problem-solving exercises and teamwork, helps students develop the mental toughness they need to overcome adversity. Encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones through public speaking, leadership roles or collaborative projects equips them with skills they will need in both their personal and professional lives.

But mental health is not an issue that educators can address alone. Employers, too, play a critical role. The transition from education to the workforce is a major source of stress for many young people, particularly in industries such as hospitality and events where the pace is relentless and the stakes are high. Deloitte’s (2024) research highlights that 31% of young employees report high levels of job-related stress, often resulting in burnout. Employers who prioritise mental health and foster resilience within their organisations can help ease this transition for young professionals, ensuring they do not just survive but thrive in their careers.

Employers can support mental well-being by creating a work environment in which mental health is taken seriously. Offering mental health resources such as counselling services, stress management workshops and flexible work arrangements is an essential step in supporting young employees. In addition, mentorship programmes can be incredibly beneficial. New hires often feel uncertain about their role and career trajectory, and having a mentor to guide them through challenges can significantly reduce stress. A strong mentor-mentee relationship fosters resilience, helping young employees build confidence and adapt to the demands of the workplace.

An oft-overlooked contributor to student stress is parents. While parental support is essential, the line between guidance and pressure can blur, leading to added mental strain. Many students feel immense pressure to meet the high expectations of their parents — whether it is achieving top academic performance or securing a prestigious job. This pressure can lead to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety, which can be difficult to navigate.

As students transition into adulthood, it is crucial for parents to strike a balance between support and autonomy. Letting go does not mean withdrawing support; rather, it involves trusting that young adults can make their own decisions while parents remain a source of encouragement. Parents must recognise that young people need room to make mistakes, learn from them and develop their own resilience. Overprotection or unrealistic expectations can hinder this process. By stepping back and allowing their children to take ownership of their decisions, parents can help reduce mental stress and foster the emotional strength their children need to navigate life’s challenges.

Collaboration between educators, employers and parents is essential in addressing mental health challenges and building resilience among students. A supportive learning environment, combined with workplace initiatives that prioritise mental well-being, can make a significant difference in how young people manage stress. When parents also play an active role in fostering resilience — by offering emotional support while encouraging independence — students are better equipped to handle both academic and professional demands.

Employability today is not just about technical skills; it is about the whole person. Resilience, mental toughness and the ability to navigate stress are as important as any hard skill. In fact, a report by the Harvard Business Review found that companies that prioritise mental health see increased productivity, employee satisfaction and retention (Forbes, 2024). Employees who feel supported in their mental health are not only more engaged but also more likely to stay committed to their roles in the long term.

In conclusion, mental health and resilience are vital components of employability, and addressing them requires a shared effort by educators, employers and parents. As we support the next generation, we must create environments that foster well-being, encourage resilience and provide the tools that young people need to succeed both personally and professionally. With the right support, students can develop the mental strength to navigate the challenges they face and thrive in their future careers.

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