Integrating Green Education, Climate Change Awareness, and Mental Health in Schools to be resilience

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Hello everyone,

I would like to talk about something that affect our students in Puerto Rico almost every school year.

Natural disasters are becoming increasingly frequent and severe due to climate change, affecting millions of our students worldwide. Schools are not only disrupted by these events, but they also play a crucial role in educating future generations about climate resilience and adaptation. This forum is dedicated to discussing the multifaceted impact of natural disasters on education and the importance of integrating climate change education into our curricula.

The impact on education in Puerto Rico due to Hurricane Maria in 2017, the earthquakes of 2020, and the COVID-19 pandemic has been profound. Hurricane Maria devastated school infrastructure, leaving many students without access to adequate schools and essential educational resources for months. The recovery was slow, and just as schools were beginning to recover, the 2020 earthquakes caused additional damage, forcing numerous educational institutions to close and leaving students in constant uncertainty. The COVID-19 pandemic added another layer of challenge with the sudden transition to online education, exposing and exacerbating the existing digital divide. Many students lacked access to technological devices and internet connectivity, making distance learning difficult. These consecutive events not only interrupted formal education but also affected the emotional and psychological well-being of students and teachers, highlighting the need for a more resilient and adaptive educational system in the face of natural disasters and global crises.

Every school year I create a climate change project attach to mental health activities to work both. Sensory Technologies are very important for my students to recognize and manage emotions. Apps like Emotions Manager and DailyBean are very helpful.

Here are a couple of questions to think about and I would like to know your answer:

1. What are the long-term psychological effects of experiencing a natural disaster on students?
2. How can schools support the mental health of students and staff in the aftermath of such events?

Hi Bryan
Integrating green education, climate change awareness, and mental health in schools is crucial for fostering resilience among students. By incorporating these interconnected themes into the curriculum, students not only gain a deeper understanding of environmental sustainability and the impact of climate change but also develop coping mechanisms to navigate the emotional challenges associated with these issues. This holistic approach equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to become environmentally conscious and emotionally resilient individuals, capable of facing the complexities of our changing world with adaptability and determination.

Best reagrds from Chokri

@Bousl2336873cb4

I agree, thank you for the poster. I love it.

@BRYANb8875625e5 Hello Bryan how are u
According to my experience and observation regarding your qurery that
The long-term psychological effects of experiencing a natural disaster on students can include:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Students may experience recurring nightmares, flashbacks, and severe anxiety related to the disaster.
Anxiety and Depression: Increased levels of anxiety and depression can develop, affecting their overall mental health and well-being.
Behavioral Changes: There may be noticeable changes in behavior, such as increased irritability, aggression, withdrawal from social interactions, and difficulty concentrating in school.
this is not only about the present students psychology effect I also faced this traumatic stress at the time of earthquake 2003 when I was school students
Providing appropriate psychological support and creating a supportive environment are crucial in helping students recover from the trauma of a natural disaster.

@BRYANb8875625e5 I want to says few lines about your question
How can schools support the mental health of students and staff in the aftermath of such events?
Schools can support the mental health of students and staff in the aftermath of natural disasters by implementing comprehensive strategies:
Increase access to school counselors, psychologists, and social workers for individual and group therapy.Create support groups specifically for teachers and staff to discuss their challenges and coping strategies.
Conduct workshops on recognizing signs of mental health issues and how to address them.
Encourage physical activities and sports to help reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

@BRYANb8875625e5 Hello colleague, It's very challenging condition that you stated here. The natural disasters, such as Hurricane Maria, the 2020 earthquakes, and the COVID-19 pandemic, have deeply impacted education in Puerto Rico, disrupting infrastructure and exposing the digital divide. These events have also taken a toll on students' mental health, underscoring the need for integrating climate change education with mental health support.Long-term psychological effects on students can include chronic anxiety, depression, and PTSD, which may affect their academic performance and overall well-being.Schools can support mental health by offering counseling services, incorporating mental health education into the curriculum, and utilizing sensory technologies like Emotions Manager and DailyBean. These tools help students manage their emotions and build resilience. Creating a supportive and adaptive environment is crucial for helping students recover and thrive after such events.By addressing these aspects, schools can foster a more resilient educational system capable of withstanding the impacts of natural disasters and global crises.