Approaching Students about Mental Health Concerns

Millions of people in the U.S. are affected by mental illness. Mental wellness matters can impact a person, a family and the entire community. As an educator, help reduce the stigma associated with mental health and show students that they are not alone. 

  • One in six youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year
    16.5% of youth aged 6-17 experienced a mental health disorder in 2016 (7.7 million people) 
  • 50.6% of youth aged 6-17 received treatment for their mental health disorder in 2016 
  • High school students with increased symptoms of depression are two times as likely to drop out of school 
  • 70.4% of youth in the juvenile system have a diagnosed mental illness 
  • LGBTQ youth are four times more likely to make a suicide attempt 
  • 17.2% of high school students have serious thoughts of suicide each year 

Consider these key guidelines when approaching the serious topic of mental health with a student: 

  • Know how to respond to a student in need. You may have noticed a student that might be having a problem, now what do you do? Click here to learn do’s and don’ts when talking with a suicidal student. 

To start a conversation with an at-risk student, try the following steps: 

        1. Ask if they are OK 
        2. Express your concern about what you are observing in their behavior 
        3. Listen attentively and non-judgmentally 
        4. Reflect what they share and let them know they have been heard 
        5. Tell them that they are not alone 
        6. Let them know there are treatments available that can help 
        7. If you are or they are concerned, guide them to additional professional help 
  • Know who to turn to with concerns. Be knowledgeable about the processes in your school that are in place for helping a student who is experiencing a mental health challenge. Make sure students have access to the appropriate school-based mental health supports. 

If observable behaviors do not pose an immediate threat(s), please take the following step(s):

        • Contact school counselor with concerns regarding observable behaviors 
        • Refer to Student Assistance Program (SAP) 
        • Always err on the side of caution 

What to do If/When a Student Expresses a Desire to Harm Him or Herself: 

Educators play a pivotal role with connecting the student with a school-based intervention. If the student confirms they are suicidal, respond quickly to a crisis by following your school’s protocol for responding to a student at risk of suicide. 

If your school does not already have a protocol to adhere too, consider the following suggested guidelines: 

  • Do not let the student out of the classroom to ensure immediate safety. 
  • Immediately contact the school counselor. 
  • Do not leave any messages. Talk to someone directly. 
  • If the counselor is not available, contact the school nurse. 
  • If the nurse is unavailable, contact your building administrator(s). 

Please keep in mind that an adult will need to escort the student to where he or she belongs.