From Stress to Success: Championing Student Mental Health

There’s a powerful connection between feeling good and doing well in school. When students experience joy, hope and pride, they’re not just happier—they’re more engaged and successful in their studies1. A study in the Journal of School Psychology shows that students with solid mental health tend to have better attendance and higher grades.2 Yet today’s students face increasing mental health challenges.

How can schools and parents help students address these challenges, so that they find academic success today and in the future? Let’s take a look at how mental health impacts academics and overall student well-being—and what we can do about it.

What are common mental health challenges for students today?

Anxiety and stress
Today's students juggle academic pressures and social expectations, often intensified by social media. The result? Many find themselves overwhelmed by anxiety and stress. The pressure to achieve top grades can become crippling instead of motivating.

Peer relationships, so vital during adolescence, add another layer of complexity. The constant stream of "perfect" lives on social media ramps up the fear of missing out (FOMO) and exacerbates stress. Add in uncertainties about the future (especially as young people look at changes in the job and housing markets), and it's no wonder some students feel stuck. While a little stress can be a good motivator, chronic stress can derail their academic journey, leading to serious problems.

Burnout
Burnout is becoming alarmingly common among students, often due to overwork and imbalance. Balancing studies, extracurricular activities, social life and part-time jobs leaves little room for downtime, leading to emotional exhaustion. This exhaustion can sap motivation and engagement, making students feel empty.

Depression
Depression is on the rise among young people. In 2009, 8.1% of 12- to 17-year-olds reported being depressed. That number lept to 15.8% in 2019.3 Stress, anxiety and burnout are all problems that can lead to depression.

Sedentary lifestyles, fueled by increased screen time and lack of physical activity, have been shown to increase chances of depression. Higher amounts of screen time can also lead to a feeling of social isolation– even though students feel connected to their peers via social media, they may lack the true connection that comes with in-person conversation.

Depression affects mood, energy, sleep and concentration, making academic success challenging. Chronic stress and anxiety can impair thinking, leaving students feeling overwhelmed and disengaged, which can hurt their academic performance.

How can parents recognize signs of mental health issues in their children?

Parents play a vital role in detecting mental health issues in their children, so it’s important to know the signs of mental health issues. These include:

• Emotional signs: Increased irritability, mood swings or withdrawing from social activities they once loved. Feelings of hopelessness or despair are also red flags.
• Academic indicators: A sudden drop in grades, extreme procrastination or trouble focusing are important to note. Skipping classes or missing assignments could also signal trouble.
• Physical symptoms: Frequent headaches, fatigue, sleep issues and significant weight changes due to altered eating habits are signs to watch.

How can parents support their child's mental health?

To support your child’s mental health at home:

• Encourage open communication: Regularly talk about their feelings and challenges without judgment.
• Create a safe space: Offer emotional support and reassure them it’s OK to ask for help.
• Promote healthy habits: Discuss the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise and sufficient sleep.
• Explain the impact of social media: Guide them on screen time use and consider family-wide device-free times.

If you spot signs of stress, anxiety, or depression in your child, respond with understanding and support. Open communication and early intervention can make a significant difference.

What role do schools play in supporting student mental health?

Schools play a key role in supporting mental health alongside parents. Many offer counseling, therapy and other resources, providing students a safe space to express concerns. Mental health education is often part of the curriculum, raising awareness and reducing stigma.

A nurturing school environment can positively impact a student’s mental and emotional well-being by promoting a balanced approach to academic success, educating students on the challenges they might face, and providing them with the tools to navigate those challenges, as well as access to mental health resources.

How Wilbraham & Monson Academy supports mental health for academic success.

At Wilbraham & Monson Academy, we believe that support is a foundational part of building a strong community, and we take seriously the correlation between mental health and academic success.

That’s why we support our students with events like Stress Relief Day, which featured 23 different workshops, from yoga to mindfulness to mental health. WMA has registered nurses and school counselors on campus, a Health and Wellness program that encourages students to develop positive habits that support their needs, and a Community & Belonging team that works to build an inclusive community.

By providing intentional, proactive mental health services, WMA aims to support students (and families) in holistic well-being and success. To learn more about the supportive environment at Wilbraham & Monson, schedule your visit today.