The newly established “mental health leave” works on three levels: counseling, sociology and even philosophy.
Elementary and middle-school students often find going to the counselor’s office in school difficult because doing so is considered a social taboo, and therefore embarrassing. Students who are asked to visit school counselors are often assumed to have misbehaved in some way. Furthermore, students who struggle with mental health problems and other difficulties are unlikely to be proactive in seeking out help and support.
National Taiwan University (NTU) has now implemented its new system for requesting mental health leave in what is a positive and healthy move for students. The problems college students encounter in their daily lives, studies, relationships and careers all have a significant impact on their lives and well-being. While NTU students might excel in their studies, that does not mean they are more capable of dealing with mental pressure than others.
Mental health leave aims to encourage students to seek help — not devalue themselves for exposing their mental issues — and find a way toward recovery through self-disclosure.
As for professors who demand class attendance, the system now provides a viable and open way for students to take leave for any mental health issues they might be experiencing. It also gives professors a chance to counsel students and allow time for self-care.
A student’s mental well-being needs support from the entire school. A college student’s mental state would improve only if more people are devoted to the support system.
With more students possessing healthier minds, Taiwan would have an even brighter future for generations to come.
Chen Chi-nung is a political commentator.
Translated by Lee Chieh-yu
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