School and Mental Health Disorders

School is not just about academics. It is also a place where children and young adults develop socially and emotionally. For those with mental health disorders, school can present unique challenges and opportunities for support.¹

Nearly half of all mental health disorders begin before the age of 14. Understanding how school and mental health are related can help everyone support students in achieving their full potential.¹

How mental health affects school

Children and teens can be impacted by mental health challenges at school in various ways.

Performance

Mental health challenges can reduce a student's ability to focus, concentrate, and complete schoolwork. This can result in lower grades, missed assignments, and academic struggles.²

Attendance

Students with mental health issues may experience higher rates of absenteeism, or missing school days. They may miss school due to emotional distress, anxiety, or depression. This can lead to falling behind in their studies and missed opportunities.²

Social ties

Mental health concerns can affect a student's ability to socialize and build positive relationships with peers. These students may become withdrawn or isolated, be at greater risk for bullying, and have problems forming friendships.²

Behavior issues

Some students may exhibit behavior problems related to their mental health. These behaviors can create challenges for both the student and the teacher. Behaviors may include:²

• Acting out
• Aggression
• Disruptions in the classroom

Self-esteem

Mental health issues can erode a student's self-esteem and self-confidence. This may lower their overall sense of self-worth. This can affect many areas of their life, including their willingness to participate in class or seek help when they need it.³

Bullying and stigma

Children and teens with mental health challenges may be more vulnerable to bullying or stigma from their peers. This, in turn, can make the students’ symptoms worse.³

How to foster mental health at school

Students with mental health issues often need extra support, such as:⁴

• Counseling or therapy
• Accommodations in the classroom

Parents, teachers, and school staff have important jobs when it comes to recognizing signs of mental health issues in kids and teens. Changes in behavior, mood, or academic performance may indicate a need for support.⁴

Many schools have counselors trained to address mental health issues. These experts can offer guidance and support to children and their parents.⁴

IEPs and 504 plans

Individualized education programs (IEPs) and 504 plans are tools for ensuring that students with mental health disorders receive the support they need to succeed at school.^5,6

IEPs

IEPs are legal plans developed for students with disabilities, including those with mental health disorders. An IEP plan outlines the student's specific needs, accommodations, and goals.⁵

504 plans

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 makes sure that students with disabilities, including mental health conditions, have the same opportunities for education as everyone else. A 504 plan is a document that lists the changes and support a student needs to overcome learning obstacles.⁶

These plans might include accommodations such as:⁶

• Giving extra time for assignments or tests
• Letting the student pick their seat
• Having therapy sessions at school

College students

The transition to college can be exciting but challenging for many young adults. Moving away from home, dealing with school stress, making new friends, and having more freedom can make mental health problems even harder to handle. Common effects include increased:⁷

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Substance use

Fortunately, most colleges offer services that can help make the transition easier. These services may include:⁷

• Campus counseling services – Most colleges offer counseling services to support students' mental health needs. They may offer individual counseling, group therapy, and crisis intervention.
• Student support centers – Many schools have student support centers that provide assistance, mental health resources, and disability services.
• Accessibility services – College students with mental health disorders can work with these services to get help tailored to their specific needs.

Breaking the stigma

Addressing mental health in school settings involves breaking down the stigma linked to mental health conditions. Open and honest talk about mental health helps create a supportive space where students feel safe seeking help when needed. Encouraging empathy, understanding, and kindness can go a long way in breaking down these barriers.³

Taking care of mental health in schools and making a place where everyone feels understood and supported ensures that all students can do well in school. School is not just about learning facts. It is also about looking after the happiness and health of the kids who will lead in the future.