13/01/2026
MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES FACED BY SCHOOL-GOING CHILDREN
In Zambia, many school-going children face emotional and psychological challenges that often go unnoticed. While children attend school daily and are expected to perform well, many struggle silently with mental health issues that affect their learning, behavior, and overall well-being.
Common Challenges Include:
1. ANXIETY and FEAR
Many children experience anxiety related to examinations, fear of failing, or fear of disappointing parents and teachers. In highly competitive school environments, this pressure can cause constant worry, headaches, or refusal to attend school.
2. ACADEMIC PRESSURE
Expectations to pass exams, move to the next grade, or secure places in good secondary schools can overwhelm children. Comparisons with classmates or siblings may increase stress and reduce self-confidence.
3. BULLYING and PEER PRESSURE
Bullying in Zambian schools whether name-calling, physical bullying, or online harassment can seriously affect a child’s mental health. Some children remain silent due to fear of punishment, stigma, or not being believed.
4. EMOTIONAL SUPPRESSION
Culturally, children are often told to “be strong” or “stop crying.” As a result, many children learn to hide their emotions instead of expressing them, leading to emotional distress, withdrawal, or behavioral challenges.
5. FAMILY and SOCIO-ECONOMIC STRESS
Financial difficulties, family conflict, parental absence, or household responsibilities can place additional emotional strain on children, affecting concentration, attendance, and emotional stability at school.
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Mental health in children is just as important as physical health. When emotional challenges are ignored, they can affect academic performance, relationships, and future mental well-being. Early support helps children grow into confident, emotionally healthy adults.
Message to Parents, Guardians & Caregivers 👨👧👧👨👩👧👦
Your role matters. Listening to your child, creating a safe space at home, and working together with teachers and school counselors can make a lasting difference.
Let us work together abafyashi, imilandu, amasambilisho, na ba mu community yonse ya Zambia ukulinda no kunona bwino mental well-being ya bana besu. 🙏
