The Challenges of Guidance Counselors in Supporting Students’ Mental Health

Abstract

This study explores the various challenges encountered by guidance counselors in effectively supporting students’ mental health, particularly in educational settings. Guidance counselors often meet difficulties in providing comprehensive mental health care due to competing responsibilities, such as administrative tasks, teaching loads, and the stigma associated with mental health issues. The primary objective of this research is to investigate how these factors affect the capacity of counselors to offer personalized mental health support to students. Operating within the legal frameworks of the Mental Health Act of 2018 (Republic Act No. 11036) and DepEd Order No. 74, s. 2019, this study highlights a significant gap between policy and practice. While these laws emphasize the provision of mental health services in schools, many guidance counselors are hindered by the burden of non-counseling duties, limiting their ability to fulfil their roles effectively. This gap in implementation results in inadequate mental health support, negatively impacting students’ overall well-being. The significance of this research lies in its focus on addressing these challenges to improve mental health services within schools. Findings reveal that counselors are constrained by time, workload, and a lack of resources, leading to decreased quality of care for students dealing with common mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, family conflicts, and bullying. Based on these findings, the study recommends hiring additional full-time guidance counselors, reducing administrative burdens, and launching regular mental health awareness campaigns to mitigate stigma. These efforts would help ensure better mental health care for students, aligning with the goals of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education), promoting both mental health support and a conducive learning environment.