Attendance, not only at school, but in life, is extremely important. You must attend to learn, contribute become a better person. In terms of education, regular attendance at school is hugely important, even missing a day or two can have a massive impact on learning. Many factors can affect attendance, however a factor that is sometimes overlooked is mental health.
Mental Health is Worsening
Children with poor school attendance were, historically, put into two differing groups: school refusers and truants. But, in our modern times, mental health is as evident as ever. Differing factors can contribute to worsen aspects of mental health but if it is not accounted for in a lot of schooling establishments.
Depression and anxiety, unfortunately, is strongly associated with unauthorised absence which can lead to different mental health issues such as self-harm. Teachers need to be given training in order to identify physical manifestations of mental health to ensure that attendance stays positive.
