Everyone has mental health, just like physical health. We wouldn’t expect to stay physically healthy without sleep, exercise, good nutrition, or regular care—and mental wellness requires similar self-care. This includes healthy habits, mindfulness, and social connection.
Mental health exists on a continuum. We all experience a range of emotions and behaviors, from healthy to unhealthy. About 1 in 5 people experience mental illness, meaning their symptoms cause significant distress or interfere with daily life.
Growing up is stressful, and most mental illnesses begin early—nearly half by age 14 and most by age 24. A diagnosis typically requires both distress and impaired functioning, but everyone can experience symptoms. What matters is how intense and disruptive those symptoms are.
Just as you wouldn’t ignore changes in your physical health, you shouldn’t ignore changes in your mental health. To thrive in school and in life, you need to take care of both your body and your mind.
For information on how to support your student’s mental well-being visit the resources below.