Interview with School Social Worker (Mentor)

Anita Pallipaden
May 24
2 min read

In the following interview, the mentor of this website, Rachel Ghezzi gives a brief interview about her experiences dealing with different types of teens and advice for struggling adolescents.

What are some common types of problems students come to you with?

Concerns vary student to student. Some have struggles with feelings of anxiety and depression;

struggles in friendships, romantic relationships, and/or with parents; big life events;

comparing themselves to others (online and in person); trauma; not being successful in school

Have you seen a decline in mental health in school over the years?

Yes. Mental health concerns have always been in schools because people are in schools, but they are better observed, discussed and referred in recent years.

Accepting services for a "problem" was taboo and still is for some. But also a huge concern is students diagnosing themselves from social media.

Why do you think that is?

Destigmatizing mental health has opened the possibility for many to talk about their mental health and their struggles.

Social media, addiction to phones, comparing oneself to the "perfection" of social media posts

Vaping and thc use

What do you think schools or students can improve on to have and encourage a healthier mental well being?

I believe that students need healthy sleep hygiene. 10 hours of sleep is highly recommended, but 8-10 hours would be great.This means that they are not staying on the phone with a friend/partner all night or scrolling through media. Ultimately, the phone would be charging in another room or at least across the room and when they got into bed, they would fall asleep pretty quickly.

Students can find a trusted adult to talk to so they do not bottle up feelings.

Schools can offer:

Mental Health & Wellness Center

- counseling, workshops, groups, coping skill strategies

What are some easy coping methods you recommend to struggling students to manage stress better?

Movement! Exercise is very beneficial.

Eat healthy foods. Drink water.

Don't forget to take breaks.

Remember to take deep breathes.

Pet an animal

Use an organizer/agenda to keep track of (tasks, assignments, tests, etc)

Remember what's important to you. Connect with yourself.