Is this controversial policy helping kids — or making school more difficult?

This article was originally published in Kids Today, a newsletter focusing on children for a wide audience. To receive future editions, sign up here.

Being a child in today’s world can be quite overwhelming. Youngsters are facing environmental crises, school shootings, and economic and political uncertainties, all while being constantly exposed to intense media coverage, particularly through social media. They are under pressure to have their lives planned out early and achieve numerous milestones to enhance their college applications. According to Jennifer Rothman from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the college preparation process practically begins in middle school.

Given these challenges, it is not surprising that kids are in need of a break. Mental health days, which gained popularity among adults during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, have now become a trend among young people. At least 12 states have enacted laws allowing excused absences for mental health reasons. However, concerns persist among some school officials that granting mental health days could foster a perception that school attendance is optional.

While mental health remains a significant issue, worries about learning setbacks and the importance of regular school attendance for academic success are also prevalent. Experts caution that taking days off for the wrong reasons may exacerbate problems. They emphasize the importance of using mental health days as a preventive measure to avoid reaching a crisis point.

There has been a growing focus on teens’ mental health in recent years, with US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy warning of a crisis among adolescents. While there have been some improvements in teen sadness and depression rates, anxiety and depression continue to be prevalent issues. Allowing mental health days can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and encourage young people to be open about their struggles.

The concept of mental health days is gaining traction among teenagers as a coping mechanism. While the idea may be unfamiliar to older generations, it is seen as a necessary tool in today’s fast-paced and digitally connected world. Mental health days should be used proactively to prevent stress buildup, rather than as a reactive measure during a crisis.

Experts emphasize the importance of utilizing mental health days effectively, ensuring that they are not misused as a means of avoidance. Parents and schools should plan mental health days in advance, engage in activities that promote well-being, and closely monitor children’s behavior for signs of distress. Schools can also incorporate mental health support into their curriculum to create a more inclusive and understanding environment for students.

In conclusion, addressing mental health issues among children requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond a single day off. By building a supportive environment and promoting open discussions about mental health, we can better equip children to navigate the challenges they face in today’s world.