Student Well-Being: Why Mental Health Must Come First

[00:02:22]

Student well-being and strong mental health are essential for effective learning. This episode explores the growing mental health challenges faced by K-12 and college students globally. Rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues have surged, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent research from the U.S. Surgeon General notes a rise in mental health struggles among youth, including major depressive episodes and suicidal thoughts, compounded by increased screen time and social media use. In higher education, nearly 40% of students report conditions like anxiety or depression.

[00:07:00]

We discuss key contributing factors to the student mental health crisis, including excessive academic pressure, economic uncertainty, political and environmental anxiety, and disrupted sleep patterns. Social media plays a significant role, as students grapple with the pressure to maintain curated online personas.

[00:15:45]

Our conversation also highlights helpful resources and organizations working to address these issues, such as HundreED’s Wellbeing in Schools project, Active Minds, and the Trevor Project. These organizations focus on integrating mental health support into education, providing vital resources, and advocating for policy change to improve student well-being.

[00:20:15]]

In the classroom, we explore trauma-informed teaching practices, mindfulness, peer support networks, and compassionate grading policies. Educators are finding new ways to balance preparing students for a tough world while creating a nurturing, supportive environment. Join us in this important conversation!