Promoting Mental Health at School
A child’s mental health is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being, influencing how they think, feel, and behave. It is shaped by a combination of individual experiences and community factors. Unfortunately, mental health struggles such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts are becoming more common among young people. Early intervention by teachers, counselors, and parents is essential in promoting student well-being.
While these challenges can be overwhelming, schools can make a meaningful impact by adopting a whole-child approach—fostering an environment where students feel safe, engaged, and supported. Building “school connectedness” and creating a safe space for students to express their concerns are fundamental to addressing mental health issues in K-12 schools.
K-12 schools are critical partners in supporting the mental health and well-being of students. They provide an opportunity to reach many youths with strategies that can lessen the impact of negative experiences and improve students’ health and well-being.
- Establish safe and supportive environments.
- Connect students to caring adults and encourage positive peer relationships.
- Give students mental health support and link them and their families to community behavioral and mental health services.
The Classroom WISE tool is an industry recommended training package for K-12 educators to support the mental health of students using evidence-based strategies and skills. For further guidance on addressing mental health in schools, the CDC provides a variety of resources with strategies that are proven to promote and support mental health and well-being.
Strategies to Create a Culture of Well-being
Developing and monitoring a safe school climate is the foundation of education-based mental health. Your school climate reflects the values, goals, norms, teaching styles, development opportunities, and interpersonal relationships among your district’s teachers and students.
Expand access to mental health services
- Hire school counselors, psychologists, and social workers to provide on-site mental health support.
- Partner with local mental health organizations to offer therapy or counseling services in schools.
- Implement telehealth programs for mental health consultations.
Build awareness and skills
- Introduce social-emotional learning (SEL) programs to teach students coping strategies, emotional regulation, and resilience.
- Conduct mental health awareness campaigns for students, staff, and families to reduce stigma and encourage seeking help.
- Provide staff training to recognize warning signs of mental health challenges and intervene early.
Create supportive environments
- Design safe spaces, like wellness rooms, where students can decompress and manage stress.
- Develop peer support programs where students can talk to trained peers about their concerns.
- Encourage inclusive school climates where bullying and discrimination are actively addressed.
Connect families to resources
- Host family education nights to discuss mental health and share available resources.
- Offer referrals to community-based services for families needing additional support.
Promote healthy practices
- Incorporate regular mindfulness exercises or relaxation techniques into the school day.
- Support physical activity and nutrition programs that contribute to overall mental health.
Monitor and respond to needs
- Conduct regular mental health screenings with parental consent to identify issues early.
- Develop individualized plans for students experiencing ongoing challenges.
Restrict access to self-harm materials
- Limit access to medications and weapons to reduce self-harm risks.
- Educate families on safe storage practices at home.
- Enforce school policies on medication and weapon safety.
Address trauma
- Provide ongoing staff training to recognize trauma, its effects, and symptoms.
- Integrate trauma-informed practices to support affected students effectively.
- Learn and educate about trauma types and school-based approaches to care.
The School Health Assessment and Performance Evaluation System (SHAPE) is an easily accessible tool for school districts to leverage, at no cost. SHAPE can address the current climate, evaluate strengths, identify areas for growth, and monitor progress in school mental health across districts.
Key Takeaways
Supporting student mental health is vital for their well-being and success. With rising challenges like depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, early intervention by teachers, counselors, and parents is crucial. Schools play a key role by fostering safe environments, connecting students to resources, and promoting positive relationships.
