Communicating Concerns Effectively
Communicating Concerns Effectively
| Duration of Module | 45 mins |
| Additional Reading | 90 mins |
Short description
This submodule focuses on the pivotal role of communication in identifying and addressing adolescent mental health concerns. It offers practical guidance for establishing trust, initiating empathetic conversations, and creating emotionally safe environments where adolescents feel heard and respected. It outlines key strategies for effective adult–adolescent dialogue, emphasizing listening skills, mutual respect, and constructive disagreement. The module also identifies common communication pitfalls—such as minimizing emotions, being overly critical, or offering unsolicited advice—and offers healthier alternatives to foster connection and support. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of involving families in mental health promotion, highlighting how collaboration between school staff and caregivers strengthens adolescent resilience. Prevention strategies related to healthy routines, social relationships, and socio-emotional learning are also explored. Finally, the submodule provides foundational principles of confidentiality, stressing the need to balance student privacy with parental involvement, always maintaining trust and transparency. These communication competencies are essential for creating a safe, responsive support network around adolescents.
Objectives of the module
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Develop communication skills for approaching adolescents in psychological distress.
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Promote family–school collaboration in supporting student mental health.
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Identify ineffective communication patterns and learn corrective strategies.
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Encourage the development of safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental conversations.
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Understand confidentiality and its implications in educational settings
Learning outcomes
After completing this module, learners will:
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Acquire communication techniques that foster emotional openness and trust.
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Learn to avoid common communication mistakes that hinder dialogue.
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Develop skills to engage families respectfully and effectively in prevention efforts.
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Understand how to discuss sensitive topics (e.g., suicide, drugs, sexuality) constructively.
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Gain awareness of confidentiality principles and how to manage information ethically
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Initiate supportive conversations with adolescents in emotional distress.
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Apply active listening, validation, and assertive dialogue strategies.
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Engage caregivers in a strengths-based partnership for student well-being.
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Balance transparency and confidentiality when communicating sensitive information.
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Avoid judgmental or dismissive communication that could shut down adolescent openness.