Mental Health in Schools: Why It Matters for Students of All Ages

Mental health issues are common in children across the U.S. In fact, about 1 in 6 children have a mental health condition like anxiety or depression. Schools can address these issues because they interact with children almost daily.  

That’s why it’s important for schools to provide mental health services. They can identify early warning signs, provide support, and coordinate care with parents. 

What factors affect students’ mental health? 

Kids have it kind of rough these days. As they grow physically, emotionally, and socially, we want them to develop into mentally healthy young people. But some kids don’t have a good support system to guide them along the way. Their home life may be unstable, or they may struggle with their identity and have no one to talk to. They may also experience a significant number of adverse childhood experiences.

Then there are influences like technology and social media. Research tells us that too much screen time can contribute to anxiety and depression, disrupt healthy sleep, and lead to cyberbullying and a distorted body image.

Unfortunately, a lot of kids aren’t getting treated for mental health conditions. A National Survey of Children’s Health found that of the 7.7 million children with at least one mental health disorder in the U.S., only half got help from a healthcare provider. That means there are a lot of school-aged kids struggling mentally without support. 

Schools can do their part by becoming aware of factors that can affect a student’s mental health, such as school stressors, home and family challenges, and traumatic events.

School stressors

Several factors related to school itself can affect students’ mental health. These may include:

• Difficulty adjusting to school routines

• Academic struggles

• Bullying

• Peer relationships

• Unsafe school environments 

Home and family challenges

Stressors at home don’t stop when children reach the classroom. Home and family challenges can affect student mental health, including:

• Family history of mental illness

• Harsh parenting

• Poverty

• Difficult living conditions

• Lack of access to supports and services

• Belonging to a marginalized ethnic group

• Parental separation related to divorce, incarceration, or immigration

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Traumatic events

Trauma can also affect kids’ mental health at school. Examples of trauma children may experience include: 

• Abuse

• Neglect

• Exposure to violence

• Sexual abuse

• Loss of a loved one

• Racial discrimination

What are the most common mental health problems in students?

Children and teens struggle with a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, alcohol or substance misuse, suicidal thoughts, behavior problems, and eating disorders.

Anxiety

Many children have fears and worries that can disrupt school life. For example, they may worry about the future or fear social situations at school.

Depression

Children who feel helpless and hopeless may be depressed. They may have a hard time paying attention and be sluggish at school. 

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder 

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can make it difficult for children to sit still and pay attention. The condition can lead to behavior and academic problems at school. 

Alcohol or substance misuse

Students who engage in underage drinking and drug use typically have other mental health problems. Their substance misuse may be an attempt to self-medicate. These kids are less likely to graduate or pursue college degrees and are more likely to drop out of school. 

Suicidal thoughts

Some kids who struggle with mental health issues may harm themselves or consider suicide. In fact, suicide is the second-leading cause of death among young people ages 10 to 34.

Behavior problems

Some students act out at school by arguing with teachers, bullying other students, or skipping school. They may have mental health issues such as:

• Major depression

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• ADHD 

• Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)

• Conduct disorder 

Children with these disorders often break school rules and don’t get along with other kids.

Eating disorders

The number of children and adolescents with eating disorders is a significant concern. These kids may struggle with low self-esteem, depression, and pressure to change how their body looks.  

What does good mental health in school look like?

In 2022, President Joe Biden pledged funding to expand school mental health services across the country. Funds will be used for schools to hire more counselors, social workers, and other mental health professions. 

The initiative will enhance services already in place in many schools, such as:

• Individual counseling by a school social worker, counselor, or psychologist

• Case management to coordinate mental health services

• Referrals to outside service providers

• Mental health screenings

• Telehealth therapy

Some schools also integrate social-emotional learning through mental health literacy programs. These programs raise awareness about mental health issues through their curriculum. 

Benefits of mental health services in schools

Offering mental health services in schools can:

• Make counseling easily accessible

• Give counselors a chance to detect issues early and provide treatment 

• Reduce concerns about treatment cost to parents

• Remove barriers to accessing care, such as mental health stigma or lack of transportation

• Get parents and teachers involved 

• Improve children’s emotional and behavioral difficulties

• Reduce absenteeism and tardiness

• Reduce risk-taking behaviors

• Raise math and reading scores

Mental health resources for schools

There are many organizations that offer free tools and guides for parents, teachers, and counselors. They include:

• National Education Association

• National Association of School Psychologists

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

• Child Mind Institute

• Students Against Depression

• AAKOMA Project

• StopBullying.gov

• Active Minds

• The Trevor Project

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Ana Gascon

Ana Gascon has over 15 years of writing and editing experience, with 8 years in health and medical content work. She is a content creator who focuses on acute conditions, chronic diseases, mental health challenges, and health equity.

Edited by:

Renée Fabian, MA

Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She’s worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.

Reviewed by:

India B. Gomez, PhD

India B. Gomez, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist with a certificate in Latin American Family Therapy. She completed her doctoral education at the California School of Professional Psychology/Alliant International University.

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