kid-grit

It's Mental Health Awareness Month!

  • 4-Minute Read

While social-emotional learning (SEL) and mental health are not identical, there are important overlaps between the two. In this blog, we’ll explore how creative writing can help support mental health. You’ll notice that many of the themes and activities also align with SEL practices, highlighting their shared benefits. However, if you notice ongoing challenges or persistent symptoms that aren’t improving through these practices or other methods your school or site is using, it’s important to seek guidance from a professional counselor for additional support.

This spring, we launched a Writing for Wellness Program for students and also retreat-like workshops for our educator partners. It’s been amazing to hear feedback about the impact of the activities we have created for humans of all ages 5-105! Below are some useful strategies for you and your teams!

kid-grit Writing For Wellness

Practical Strategies for Promoting Mental Health in Schools Using Creativity

In today’s fast-paced educational environment, mental health is no longer just a personal issue, it’s a professional priority. Educators face increasing demands that can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. Prioritizing mental health not only supports staff well-being but also fosters a positive, creative, and engaged school community. One of the most effective ways to promote mental health in schools is through creative outlets such as writing, self-reflection, and art. These tools offer powerful means to process emotions, relieve stress, and boost mental clarity.

In this blog, we’ll explore practical strategies for integrating these creative tools into school routines to support staff mental health and well-being.

1. Writing as a Tool for Mental Health

Writing can be a powerful way for educators to process emotions, reflect on challenges, and find clarity during stressful times. Here are some ways to integrate writing into your school day:

  • Journaling for Emotional Expression – We encourage educators to take 10–15 minutes a day for journaling to express their thoughts and release tension. Journaling prompts, such as “What’s one thing causing stress today, and how can I manage it?” or “Reflect on a recent success” can enhance emotional resilience.
  • Creative Writing for Stress Relief – Creative writing activities provide an outlet for educators to escape routine tasks and engage in imaginative thinking. Schools can organize workshops where staff write stories, poems, or scenarios about work challenges, such as a superhero facing a tough deadline.
  • Gratitude Journals for Positive Thinking (we are SO into gratitude!) – Encourage educators to maintain a gratitude journal, noting three things they’re grateful for each day. This simple act shifts focus from stressors to positive aspects of life, fostering a more optimistic mindset.

2. Self-Reflection for Personal Growth and Well-Being

Self-reflection helps educators manage stress and grow personally and professionally. Incorporating it into the school day promotes well-being and emotional intelligence.

  • Mindfulness Moments – Short mindfulness exercises, such as breathing or body scans, can be easily integrated into breaks. Taking 5–10 minutes to focus on the present moment helps reduce mental tension.
  • Reflective Check-Ins – Add self-reflection questions during staff meetings or individual check-ins such as “How are you feeling about your workload?” and “What’s been a recent challenge, and how did you handle it?” This fosters open conversations about mental health in a supportive environment.
  • Monthly Reflection Sessions – Host monthly sessions where educators reflect on personal and professional growth. Use prompts like “What’s one thing I’ve learned about myself this month?” to encourage self-awareness.

3. Art as a Creative Outlet for Stress Relief

Artistic activities can help educators manage stress and enhance team morale.

  • Doodle Breaks (we even offer a session on the art of doodling for problem solving!) – Encourage quick “doodle breaks” to stimulate creativity and relieve stress. Doodling during long meetings or after intense work sessions offers a mental reset.
Mental Health Awareness Month
  • Group Art Projects (this is a great activity to improve school culture all around by invited students and families to participate) – Collaborative art projects, such as creating a mural, can build team spirit and provide an emotional outlet. Each staff member can contribute artwork representing their feelings or experiences.

4. Integrating Creativity into Daily Routines

To make these strategies sustainable, it’s essential to embed them into the daily school routine.

  • Wellness Breaks – Designate times for wellness breaks, encouraging educators to write, reflect, or create art. Even 10-minute breaks can provide a refreshing mental reset.
  • Wellness Corners (not just for kids anymore!) – Create designated wellness spaces where educators can retreat to journal, meditate, or engage in art. Having a dedicated area reinforces the priority of mental health.
  • Creative Wellness Challenges – Launch monthly creative wellness challenges, such as a “30 Days of Gratitude” writing challenge or a “Weekly Art Prompt,” to engage educators in ongoing mental health practices.

By embracing these creative strategies, schools can create a culture that supports mental health, encourages self-expression, and enhances well-being across the staff. We need it now, more than ever!

Mental Health Awareness Month

By embracing these creative strategies, schools can create a culture that supports mental health, encourages self-expression, and enhances well-being across the staff. We need it now, more than ever!

BOOK YOUR NEXT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP!

SHARE THIS POST!

RECENT POSTS

Skip to content