Teachers and Counselors Talk: The Psychological Impact of COVID-19 School Closures on Secondary School Students.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted students' education, mental health, and social well-being. Our research explores the experiences and perceptions of teachers and counselors of the psychological impact of COVID-19 school closures on secondary school students after returning to school. METHODS: In this qualitative study, 21 teachers and counselors in Iran were purposefully involved and interviewed in-depth using a semi-structured format. The data was analyzed using Van Manen's 6-step phenomenological method, and Lincoln and Guba's criteria were implemented to maintain accuracy and trustworthiness. RESULTS: We have identified 15 categories and 6 themes. These themes encompass issues such as low self-esteem due to emotional or psychological damage, instability within schools, challenges faced by students with family problems, lack of motivation and patience among students, frustration experienced by students, and emotional detachment. IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL HEALTH POLICY, PRACTICE, AND EQUITY To effectively guide and educate students, teachers and counselors must prioritize the psychological well-being of students absent from school due to illness or pandemics. They must also take adequate measures to address any arising psychological complications. CONCLUSION: Teachers and counselors must recognize and consider the psychological consequences of students absent; this will help develop effective measures to address and alleviate psychological complications.