Breaking the Silence: Why Schools Must Prioritize Mental Health of Their Students

In a world where mental health issues are becoming increasingly prevalent among young people, schools must take a more comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of their students. Despite the fact that one in five teens between ages 12 and 18 struggle with mental health, schools often focus more on addressing harmful social media posts and students who pose a threat to themselves or others rather than those who silently battle with mental health issues.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 42% of students feel persistently sad or hopeless and nearly 29% of students and adults have experienced poor mental health. These statistics highlight the need for schools to take action to improve the support and resources available to students.

One potential way to enhance the well-being of students is by starting school at a later time. Research shows that a significant percentage of teens do not get enough sleep, especially as they get older and are dealing with sports, jobs, and heavy homework loads. Starting school later in the morning can help students to get more rest and improve their mental health overall.

By focusing on the needs of all students, including those who are struggling silently with mental health issues, schools can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for their students. Aubrianna Spears, a student in Jackson Township, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the mental health of all students in the school setting. “Mental health is just as important as physical health,” she says. “Schools should do everything they can to make sure that every student has access to the resources they need.”