Prioritizing Mental Health in High Schools
Prioritizing Mental Health in High School: Why It Matters and How We Can Help
High school can be an exciting season of life filled with friendships, self-discovery, and new opportunities. But it can also feel overwhelming. Between grades, college applications, family responsibilities, sports, social media, and part-time jobs, many students are carrying more stress than ever before.
In fact, research shows that rates of anxiety and depression among teens are higher today than in any previous generation. That’s not because students are “weaker” or “less resilient”—it’s because the world they’re growing up in places unique pressures on them that require new forms of support and understanding.
The Pressures High School Students Face
Academic Stress: From AP courses to standardized tests, the pressure to succeed academically can feel like a nonstop marathon.
Social Media Comparison: Online platforms can connect students, but they can also intensify feelings of inadequacy or isolation.
Identity and Belonging: Questions of “Who am I?” and “Where do I fit?” are natural at this stage, but when combined with social or cultural pressures, they can lead to deep stress.
Uncertain Futures: With rising college costs and competitive job markets, students often worry if their hard work will “pay off.”
These challenges don’t just affect students emotionally—they impact grades, relationships, sleep, and even physical health.
Why Mental Health Matters in High School
Mental health is just as important as physical health. A student with a broken leg would never be expected to “just push through it.” The same should be true when students face anxiety, depression, or burnout. When students feel supported in their mental health, they are more likely to:
Stay engaged in school
Build positive relationships
Develop healthy coping skills
Believe in their own future
Strategies for Students
Talk About It – You don’t have to carry everything alone. Find a trusted adult, friend, counselor, or teacher. Speaking your truth is the first step toward healing.
Practice Self-Care – Small daily choices—like taking breaks, journaling, exercising, or even just deep breathing—can help manage stress.
Set Boundaries with Social Media – Curate your feed. Take breaks when scrolling makes you feel worse, not better.
Sleep Matters – It may sound simple, but getting 7–9 hours of rest can drastically improve mood and focus.
Celebrate Small Wins – Every accomplishment counts. Don’t wait until the “big moment” to be proud of yourself.
Strategies for Parents & Educators
Listen First – Resist the urge to “fix” immediately. Sometimes students just need to feel heard.
Normalize Mental Health Conversations – Make it as normal to talk about stress and anxiety as it is to talk about sports or homework.
Create Safe Spaces – Whether it’s a classroom, a home, or a wellness center, students need environments where they feel emotionally safe.
Encourage Professional Support – If needed, guide students toward counselors, therapists, or mental health resources.
A Final Word
High school is a season of growth—but growth is never easy. When students know they don’t have to hide their struggles, they’re better equipped to thrive both now and in the future. Supporting mental health isn’t a “bonus” or an “extra”—it’s the foundation of student success.
Let’s remind every student: You are not alone. You matter. Your mental health matters.
