Student mental health is an alarming concern today. Poor mental well-being can lead to increased absences, higher rates of suspension, academic failure, credit deficiency, and, in extreme cases, even expulsion. Since each of these outcomes can contribute to the loss of essential funding, schools should be more than motivated to make a change. They have a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students, staff, and faculty by supporting mental and emotional health. The benefits of doing so are undeniable and go far beyond improving individual well-being.
In short, focusing on mental well-being is an excellent way to promote student and staff well-being and enhance overall school culture. Keep reading to learn more about the 8 benefits of mental health services in your school.
Should schools implement mental health programs?
Yes — schools should implement mental health programs. Anxiety, stress, and depression levels are at unprecedented levels in today’s youth and adolescents:
- Dying by suicide is the second leading cause of death in young people
- 1 in 6 adolescents live with a mental health condition
- 1 in 20 experience depression
- 15% had at least one major depressive episode in the last 12 months
Yet, even though early intervention and treatment is the best chance to improve youth mental health, sadly, the majority of students (over 60%) do not have access to services and treatment.
Increasing social awareness among educators, parents, and policymakers is the first step toward developing effective mental health and wellness programs that will have a positive, long-lasting impact.
The benefits of mental health services in schools
Implementing youth mental health programs in schools has far-reaching benefits that go beyond improving student mental health. It can have a positive impact on students, teachers, administrators, staff, and the entire school community.
Destigmatizing mental health
One of the most critical benefits of mental health services in schools is the part they play in destigmatizing the issue. Programs dedicated to improving emotional well-being, such as implementing mental health days for students can normalize important discussions about mental well-being. When access to mental health professionals and programs is readily available, it’s easier for students to understand that seeking help is a sign of strength, not a weakness.
Improved student well-being
Research overwhelmingly demonstrates the efficacy of school-based mental health services for improving student emotional well-being and behavioral problems. Students who have support and guidance through programs and resources are better equipped to navigate the stress, anxiety, and social pressures so many face today. It’s simple: when schools address mental health needs, students can thrive on multiple fronts.
Academic improvement
Research highlights a strong connection between mental health and academic performance. To support student success, schools must ensure access to appropriate mental health care. When students have the resources they need, they are better equipped to stay engaged in school, concentrate on their studies, and achieve lasting academic success.
Reduction in behavioral issues
Many students exhibit behavioral issues due to unmet mental health needs. By implementing programs designed to improve mental well-being, schools can effectively address the root causes of disruptive behavior.
Children with mental health support are less likely to act out aggressively, demonstrate defiant behavior, or engage in disruptive acts throughout the school day. These positive changes in behavior benefit everyone—students, teachers, staff, and peers—by creating a more conducive learning environment.
Early intervention and prevention
Early intervention should always be the goal when someone is experiencing a mental health crisis or concern. In studies, early intervention programs and educational resources were successful in preventing or delaying the onset of more serious mental health conditions. Identifying struggling students early on means support can be offered before things escalate.
Creating a supportive school culture
Making mental health a priority helps establish a supportive, inclusive school culture. It promotes understanding and empathy by offering a safe place for students and other school members to go when they need guidance. Prioritizing mental health can create a cultural shift, strengthening social relationships, improving collaboration, and building a sense of community in schools.
Supporting teachers and school staff
Strong mental health programs in schools are good for more than just students. They also benefit faculty and staff. Educators have incredibly high-stress levels, negatively impacting teachers’ mental health. Some research suggests nearly half of teachers (45.6%) experience “much stress” at their jobs. Burnout, anxiety, and depression are prevalent as well — various studies show:
- 28.8% of teachers are burned out
- 26% have anxiety
- 30.7% have depression
When educators have access to effective mental health programs, it will have a positive impact. It can help them do their jobs effectively, enhance their emotional well-being, increase job satisfaction, and reduce turnover.
Lower absenteeism
Research links poor mental health as a common cause of chronic student absenteeism, making it vital for schools to address this issue proactively. School-based health services (SBHS) play a critical role in improving attendance rates by providing students with the mental health support they need. By prioritizing mental well-being, schools can help students attend regularly and stay engaged in their learning.
Support your students & staff with Talkspace
Establishing mental health programs is good for your students and your staff. The benefits of mental health services in schools are undeniable — from destigmatizing mental health to improving academic outcomes and attendance rates, to lowering stress, anxiety, and depression levels in teachers and students, these types of programs are vital today.
Talkspace is a proven resource that helps students and educators. Online therapy for students can result in fewer missed days, increased productivity, and better balance in life. Partnering with Talkspace means offering school members access to more than 70 self-guided, clinically supported programs, weekly therapist-led classes, and additional resources that are designed to address the very specific needs of educators and students.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward improving mental health in your school, contact us today to request a Talkspace demo. We know how to help students, faculty, and staff in educational settings, and we’re ready to guide you along the way.
Sources:
- “Mental Health and Academic Achievement.” n.d. SAMHSA. https://www.education.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt326/files/inline-documents/mental_health_and_academic_achievement.pdf. Accessed January 10, 2025.
- “Youth Data 2022.” n.d. Mental Health America. https://www.mhanational.org/issues/2022/mental-health-america-youth-data#two. Accessed January 10, 2025.
- Richter, Anne, My Sjunnestrand, Maria Romare Strandh, and Henna Hasson. 2022. “Implementing School-Based Mental Health Services: A Scoping Review of the Literature Summarizing the Factors That Affect Implementation.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 19 (6): 3489. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063489. Accessed January 10, 2025.
- Agnafors, Sara, Mimmi Barmark, and Gunilla Sydsjö. 2020. “Mental Health and Academic Performance: A Study on Selection and Causation Effects From Childhood to Early Adulthood.” Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology 56 (5): 857–66. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-020-01934-5. Accessed January 10, 2025.
- McGorry, Patrick D, and Cristina Mei. 2018. “Early Intervention in Youth Mental Health: Progress and Future Directions.” Evidence-Based Mental Health 21 (4): 182–84. https://doi.org/10.1136/ebmental-2018-300060. Accessed January 10, 2025.
- Agyapong, Belinda, Gloria Obuobi-Donkor, Lisa Burback, and Yifeng Wei. 2022. “Stress, Burnout, Anxiety and Depression Among Teachers: A Scoping Review.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 19 (17): 10706. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191710706. Accessed January 10, 2025.