Health involves more than just a gym by Montana

Health involves more than just a gym by Montana - November 2021 Scholarship Essay

Red folder for math, a purple binder for science, a green folder for social studies, and a yellow binder for English. It seems to be the unspoken rule between students when organizing school supplies. Gym could be any remaining color because, as a physical class, there was little paperwork to take home. Physical education is a required subject from kindergarten through 12th grade. Classmates play countless games of dodgeball and soccer. Gym curriculum emphasizes problem-solving, strategy, and physical fitness.

Physical education moved from the gymnasium to the classroom for one semester in high school. The course was not called gym that semester but was referred to as health class. Stereotypically, the curriculum included anatomical studies of the male and female genitals and bodies. Basic nutrition and routine physical movement were highlighted in order to maintain a “healthy lifestyle.” High school health class only scratched the surface of what elements add up to obtaining a healthy lifestyle. Concepts like contraceptives, nicotine and other addictions, steps to improve mental health, and more cannot be fully absorbed in one semester of high school. This course work deserves more emphasis and ongoing practice during the developmental stages of sentient students learning. These complex subjects may be harder to discuss but are certainly advantageous towards a longer and more fulfilling relationship with one’s body.

Human’s addiction to technology has never been more apparent. Students are receiving smartphones at younger ages. This power of technology over young minds ought not to be taken lightly. The world is full of misinformation and students have countless outlets to it now more than ever. Luckily, there are a few big companies that advertise mental health awareness campaigns including Madhappy Clothing and Sephora. This helps destigmatize mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression along with promoting understanding for these very personal issues. The importance of health is reflected in advertisements aimed towards a younger demographic is telling. Pop culture is attempting to tackle these issues in real-time. All in all, health class deserves more ongoing emphasis in school to reduce misinformation, promote normality around mental health challenges, and of course remind students how babies are made.