August 5th marked the end of the current nationwide student mass protests and the now former Government’s decision to step down. However, despite this moment of joy, tensions persist in efforts to restore normalcy and a fresh start for the country. These students, often known as Generation Z, began their protests in early July, calling for reform of the civil service quota system.

As the protest further escalated, on July 17th, the government responded by closing schools, colleges, and universities. With very few educational institutions that began their classes, the majority still remains closed.

It can be challenging to discuss mental health with family and loved ones, particularly in this part of the world where stigma surrounding mental illness persists. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in conversations about the importance of mental health, only a few educational institutions are cautious about it and have established counseling centers to support students; mental health, which is clearly not enough.

As classes are expected to begin soon, educators may be required to provide socio-psychological support. There could be a few students who were exposed to violence and injury. Additionally, the protest may have claimed the lives of friends or relatives, potentially causing them to experience some form of trauma. Therefore, in the current situation, everyone has a role to play.

And here’s how educators might address the challenges:

- Don’t push difficult conversations under the rug. Before anything else, students need to feel that they are being heard, understood, and thought about.

- Institutions should communicate clearly and empathetically with students about available mental health resources and support options. Engage in a constructive, transparent conversation about what is realistic and can be done.

- Immersing students immediately in class-based reading can be a challenge. Teachers can create a free-frank classroom environment so that the students can quickly adapt to it. Teachers can sometimes make a separate schedule for talking to students independently.

- After that, ensuring a sense of safety, confidence, belonging, and collaboration on campus is what needs to be done. Engage students in various co-curricular activities.

- Institutions should provide immediate access to counseling services for students who may be experiencing distress or trauma as a result of the protest.

- Promoting mental health awareness and normalizing mental health conversations can help reduce stigma and encourage students to seek help. Developing programs that focus on mental health and well-being, like stress management and building resilience, can be helpful.

- Institutions should have long-term strategies in place for supporting students beyond the immediate aftermath of a protest, including ongoing counseling and mental health initiatives. Providing timely and sensitive support and addressing the needs of students are crucial for effectively tackling the mental health impacts of such events. When a student needs a helping hand or support, there is no wrong door for them to enter.

Writer: Senior Lecturer, Department of Social Relations, East West University