Most kids are back to school and we are at a start of a fresh new year! This means we need to prioritize and think about those things lacking in our health and well-being, and of those that we love… our kids. Emphasizing good mental health in schools that your children attend can make a significant difference in their success academically, socially, and mentally.
As a professional mental health therapist and someone deeply passionate about the well-being of children and teens, I see daily how mental health shapes every aspect of life. Unfortunately, we’ve been slow to recognize the critical role it plays in schools. While we focus on grades, test scores, and extracurriculars, mental health often takes a backseat in schools.
It’s time for that to change.
The Mental Health Crisis in Schools
The Alarming Statistics
Today’s students are under more pressure than ever before. Anxiety, depression, and even suicide rates among children and teens are at an all-time high. Social media, academic stress, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have created a perfect storm. According to the CDC, one in five children experiences a diagnosable mental health condition, yet only 20% of those children receive the support they need.
The Consequences of Neglecting Mental Health
When schools fail to address mental health, the effects ripple across all areas of a child’s life. Students struggle to focus, fall behind academically, and miss school more often. On the social side, unresolved mental health issues can lead to bullying, isolation, and strained peer relationships. It can lead to serious self hate
Getting the help that the child needs can seem like pulling teeth in some school systems. I know from experience, being involved in my clients’ IEP or 504 plan meetings, trying to facilitate getting the things needed for their best success.
If a child can’t concentrate because of overwhelming anxiety or depression, how can we expect them to excel in math or history?
Why Mental Health and Academic Success Are Linked
The Brain Needs Balance to Learn
Mental health impacts a student’s ability to focus, retain information, and manage stress. When a child feels emotionally supported, they are more likely to engage in learning, take risks, and solve problems creatively. I know that in the group therapy classes I’ve taught to my clients, as we’ve focused on their mental health, community, and coping skills, their grades have gone up in correlation.
Resilient Students Become Resilient Adults
By addressing mental health early, we’re not just improving grades; we’re equipping kids with the emotional tools they’ll use for the rest of their lives. Resilience, problem-solving, and emotional regulation are skills that benefit students far beyond the classroom. These benefits allow them to lead, build relationships, and understand priorities.
What Schools Can Do to Prioritize Mental Health
Integrating Mental Health Education
Mental health needs to be part of the curriculum. Teaching kids about emotional regulation, coping skills, and mindfulness is just as important as teaching them math or science. Schools can bring in mental health professionals for workshops and/or provide training for teachers to recognize the signs of mental health struggles. Even including a couple of breathing techniques to use prior to an activity or test that might be stressful can help the kids immensely.
Hiring More Mental Health Professionals
The current student-to-counselor ratio in many schools is far too high. Adding more school counselors, psychologists, and social workers is a practical and necessary step. Alternatively, even having a reliable referral list for the school to provide to the parents makes it easier for parents to get the resources they need for their child.
Creating Safety
Students need to decompress during stressful moments. A quiet room or mindfulness space can make a huge difference for a child feeling overwhelmed. However, if that is not possible, allowing the child to put their head down or have a moment in the hall helps to calm and reset. Educating teachers on this concept has been incredibly useful in some schools. Peer support networks can also be incredibly effective in fostering a sense of community.
How Parents Can Make a Difference
Be Advocates for Change
Parents are the most powerful voices in pushing for mental health resources in schools. Attend school board meetings, advocate for more counselors, and support mental health education initiatives. Reach out to other parents who are like-minded and communicate regularly about your experiences and the changes you can make.
Start Conversations at Home
Normalize discussions about mental health with your children. Ask them how they’re feeling, and model healthy ways to cope with stress. Practice at home those techniques that they can use in class to be able to succeed without needing to be removed from the classroom for academic and social reasons. These conversations not only open lines of communication but also reduce stigma.
Partner with Schools
Work collaboratively with teachers and administrators to ensure your child’s mental health needs are met. Suggest bringing in workshops or partnering with local mental health organizations. You can also volunteer to help in the classroom to familiarize yourself with the teacher, the other kids, and the environment that is being cultivated.
For Homeschooling Parents: Leveraging ESA Funds for Mental Health
What Are ESA Funds?
In Arizona, Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) funds allow homeschooling families to access resources they might not otherwise afford. These funds absolutely cover therapy, mental health workshops, or mindfulness programs tailored to your family’s needs. If the specific needs of your child aren’t being met, reach out to a mental health therapist or counselor you know and make suggestions! We are always open to them!
Creating a Mental Health-Focused Curriculum
Homeschooling parents have the unique ability to weave mental health education into their daily lessons. Incorporate mindfulness exercises, teach emotional intelligence, and encourage peer interaction through homeschooling co-ops.
By prioritizing mental health at home, you’re setting your children up for long-term success.
Dispelling Myths About Mental Health in Schools
There are several misconceptions about integrating mental health into education:
- “It’s the parents’ responsibility.” While parents play a vital role, schools are where children spend a vast amount of their waking hours. It’s a shared responsibility and other children can benefit from these things if not taught in their homes.
- “Mental health services are too expensive.” The cost of neglecting mental health far outweighs the investment in resources. Lower absenteeism, better grades, and improved school culture are worth every penny.
- “Kids are too young to understand mental health.” This couldn’t be more false. Even preschoolers can benefit from learning about emotions and coping strategies in age-appropriate ways.
Action Plan: How You Can Help
- Start Conversations: Normalize mental health discussions in your home and community.
- Get Involved: Attend school meetings and advocate for mental health initiatives.
- Learn and Educate: Use resources like books, podcasts, and workshops to educate yourself and others.
- Use ESA Funds: If you’re homeschooling, explore how ESA funds can support your child’s mental health.
- Collaborate: Partner with teachers, counselors, and other parents to create a supportive environment.
Conclusion
Mental health isn’t just a personal issue; it’s a societal one. By making mental health the number one priority in schools, we’re not just helping kids succeed academically—we’re equipping them to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or concerned community member, you have the power to make a difference. Let’s work together to ensure that every child gets the support they need to thrive.
Together, we can create schools that truly nurture the whole child—mind, body, and spirit.