Around the world, one in seven 10 to 19 year olds experience mental health conditions. Anxiety is the most common diagnosed condition among teenagers. While support is available, many teens do not receive treatment.
Teen mental health is not a personal issue, it is becoming a rising issue at school. Mental health struggles can reduce concentration and make it harder to do well in school. Absences for mental health can hurt learning, which often leads to lower grades.
Schools can support students with mental health struggles by creating safe and respectful classrooms, train teachers and staff to recognize the signs of mental conditions, and have regular check-ins for children.
Many schools face challenges in supporting students because they have limited access to trained staff, difficulty connecting with students, and not knowing warning signs.
Mental health matters just as much as physical health. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental well-being, 988 is the suicide hotline that is open 24/7.