It’s August, and kids are returning to school, which means new challenges for some children and their families. This week, we’re shining a light on emotional wellbeing at every age—and that includes the youngest members of our communities. School-age children may not have the vocabulary to express what they’re going through, but their mental health is just as important as their physical health. From academic pressures to social dynamics, kids today are navigating a complex world, and they need our support.
The Hidden Struggles of Childhood
It’s easy to assume childhood is carefree, but for many children, this stage of life comes with anxiety, sadness, insecurity, and even trauma. According to the CDC, 1 in 6 children aged 6–17 experience a mental health disorder each year. Common concerns include:
- Anxiety about school performance or social interactions
- Depression, especially in response to changes at home or bullying
- Behavioral challenges, which may be signs of underlying emotional needs
- Difficulty concentrating, which can affect academic success
Mental health doesn’t always manifest the same way in children as it does in adults. It can show up as irritability, withdrawal, changes in eating or sleeping, or frequent physical complaints like headaches or stomachaches.
School: A Place of Learning—and Stress
For many children, school is a major source of both enrichment and stress. Social comparison, fear of failure, bullying, and overscheduling can all erode a child’s confidence and peace of mind. Add to that the impact of global issues, digital overload, and family stressors, and it's no wonder many children feel overwhelmed.
What Parents, Caregivers, and Teachers Can Do
Listen First
Sometimes children just need a safe space to share. Be curious, not critical. Ask open-ended questions like, “What was something that made you feel proud or upset today?”
Normalize Emotions
Let them know that feelings are okay and that it’s brave to talk about them. Use books, videos, or even characters they admire to help normalize mental health conversations.
Create Consistency
Routines and structure help children feel secure. Predictable meals, sleep, and study times can help regulate both their bodies and emotions.
Encourage Movement and Play
Physical activity, creativity, and downtime are vital to emotional regulation. Help kids balance screen time with movement and unstructured play.
Watch for Warning Signs
Persistent sadness, excessive worry, self-isolation, or changes in behavior may indicate a child needs extra help. Trust your gut and seek support from a school counselor, pediatrician, or mental health professional.
Bringing Awareness Into Action
This week, let’s commit to being proactive in caring for our children’s emotional well-being. That might mean having that hard conversation, advocating for better mental health resources in schools, or simply showing up consistently in a child’s life.
Healthy minds start early and every adult can make a difference.
Need Support?
If you're concerned about your child’s mental health, resources are available. Don’t wait to reach out—early support can lead to lifelong resilience.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-950-NAMI
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