Access mental health resources and guidance on SchoolSafety.gov to provide support for students at risk and strengthen your school community

Mental Health Awareness Month, recognized each May, is a time to reflect on the importance of school-based mental health awareness and support. According to the National Research Council and Institute of Medicine, up to 1 in 5 children living in the United States experience a mental disorder every year. By supporting students experiencing mental health challenges, schools can help foster a sense of safety and promote better academic and behavioral outcomes.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent move to virtual learning environments has led to unprecedented challenges in areas such as social isolation and stress, which present additional risks to the behavioral and mental health of students. Access to mental health services helps reduce mental, emotional, and behavioral difficulties with those at risk.

SchoolSafety.gov is home to mental health resources and strategies schools, educators, and parents can use to help implement mental health support in their communities. Featured resources and tools include: