While yoga can be a therapeutic and supportive practice, as yoga teachers, your primary role is to guide students through their yoga practice, not to diagnose or treat mental health issues. It's essential to be aware of the limits of your professional capacity and the importance of referring students to mental health professionals when necessary.
Approaching the Student
If you are concerned about a student, consider these steps by Samaritans:
- Show you care - Give them your full attention and listen to them.
- Have Patience - The person may not be ready to open up.
- Use Open Questions - Encourage reflecting and more detailed answers.
- Say It Back - Don't interrupt or offer a solution, but saying it back can show you listened.
- Have Courage - You don't have to fille the silence, and don't be put off if someone doesn't want to talk.
If a student appears to be in need of professional help, suggest resources like Samaritans. Samaritans is a charity dedicated to providing emotional support to anyone in emotional distress or at risk of suicide. They can be contacted 24/7 by phone or email.
Setting Boundaries
Setting boundaries is crucial in maintaining a professional and healthy teacher-student relationship. Here are some guidelines:
- Professional Distance: Keep the relationship professional. Personal involvement can complicate the teacher-student dynamic.
- Confidentiality: Ensure any conversation with the student remains confidential, respecting their privacy.
- Self-Care: Be mindful of your own mental health. Supporting someone else can be emotionally taxing, so ensure you have support and practice self-care.
- Seek Supervision: If you're unsure about how to handle a situation, seek advice from a more experienced teacher or supervisor.
You may also wish to take some mental health first aid training to gain a better understanding.