In the United States, approximately 20% of teens aged 12-18 struggle with mental health issues. Despite this, 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. This disconnect is particularly evident in Ohio, where students are required to watch a Sandy Hook “See Something, Say Something” video every semester to learn how to address concerning posts online.
However, these videos do not provide guidance for students who are silently struggling with mental health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 42% of students feel persistently sad or hopeless and nearly 29% of students and adults have experienced poor mental health. This can impact a student’s behavior and well-being. If schools truly care about their students’ mental and physical health, they should take steps 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.
