Mental Health Supports in the Public Schools

Increasingly, young students experience mental health challenges, some as early as first grade. With mental health challenges reaching students at younger ages, teachers and school staff need to be ready to assist their students in need. Roughly a third of young people experience mental health challenges, and 70-80% are unable to receive mental health services. As a large portion struggle in school with mental health concerns, teachers and school staff are likely to be the first to see any potential signs of struggle. When teachers notice signs of a student struggling with mental health, the staff often do not know how to assist a student in need. Teacher preparation programs often focus on classroom management, curriculum, and instruction skills, while neglecting how to support students who are facing mental health issues. With 132 participants data are showing a very strong need for mental health training for educational professionals.