The Impact of Teacher-student Relationships on Students' Mental Health

Abstract

This paper explores the significant impact of teacher-student relationships on students' mental health, emphasizing the need for proactive measures in educational institutions. The intricate dynamics of these relationships influence students' self-concept, academic performance, and emotional well-being. Various challenges faced by students' mental health, including stress, depression, perfectionism, and the influence of social media, are discussed. The paper categorizes teacher-student relationships into oppositional, dependent, laissez-faire, and democratic patterns, highlighting the importance of fostering democratic relationships characterized by mutual respect and collaboration. Positive teacher-student relationships enhance students' self-concept, academic adaptability, and emotional engagement, while negative relationships can lead to emotional distress. The paper suggests fostering open communication, training teachers in empathic communication and emotional intelligence, and integrating Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs. It emphasizes creating a sense of belonging in the classroom and investing in accessible mental health resources. These strategies aim to create an environment where teacher-student relationships contribute to student's holistic development and well-being.