A Painful Week for Schools: Why We Must Take the Mental Health of Our Young People Seriously

A Painful Week for Schools: Why We Must Take the Mental Health of Our Young People Seriously

This past week has been extremely difficult for many schools, families, and communities across South Africa. We have seen several tragic reports in the news about young people who have taken their own lives. As educators and members of our communities, these stories are deeply painful to read and even harder to understand.

Behind every headline is a child, a family, and a school community that is left heartbroken. In recent reports, authorities have even called for investigations after the death of a young learner allegedly linked to bullying at school. These tragedies remind us that the struggles many young people face are very real, and often far deeper than what we see on the surface.

Across South Africa, mental health professionals have warned that suicide among young people is becoming a growing concern. Bullying, cyberbullying, social pressure, family difficulties, and the challenges faced in many communities can all place enormous emotional strain on our learners.

As someone who works closely with young people every day, I believe we must start taking these matters far more seriously. Our children today are facing many pressures that previous generations did not experience in the same way. Social media, online bullying, community hardships, and academic stress can weigh heavily on young minds.

Too often, young people suffer in silence.

This is why parents, educators, and community leaders must work together to create environments where children feel safe, supported, and able to speak about their struggles. Listening to our learners is one of the most powerful things we can do. When a child feels heard and understood, it can make a world of difference.

At Aspeling High, we take every matter involving our learners very seriously. The well-being of our learners is always a priority, and when concerns arise, we deal with them with care and responsibility.

To support our learners further, Aspeling High started a Big Brother programme, where our senior students “adopt” Grade 8 learners. These Big Brothers check in regularly, support them socially and emotionally, and help them adjust to high school life. Beyond helping them fit in, they assist academically and act as a trusted older voice — someone the younger learners can speak to freely without the pressure of it being a teacher. This programme gives every learner a chance to be heard, feel supported, and know they are not alone.

As the founder of the school, I make it a point to spend time speaking directly with our learners. Not only in my role as a school leader, but also as someone they can approach as a friend, a mentor, and a support base. I believe that every child deserves to be heard. Every learner should feel that their voice matters and that someone is willing to listen.

Many times, a conversation can make the biggest difference in a young person’s life.

Our schools must be places where learners feel safe, respected, and supported. Bullying and emotional harm should never be ignored, and we must always be aware of what is happening around our children.

I encourage parents, educators, and members of our communities to pay close attention to the young people in their lives. Notice the changes in behaviour, ask questions, and most importantly, listen without judgement.

Our children are the future of our communities. Protecting their well-being is not only a responsibility of schools, but of all of us.

Let us continue to support one another and ensure that every child knows that their life matters and that they are never alone.

Mr Aspeling
Founder – Aspeling High