Furthermore, teachers, instructional aides, and other support staff in schools should come from a wide variety of identities. Diverse representation helps engender trust with students of all backgrounds.

Additionally, school staff should work with mental health professionals to learn the ways depression, anxiety, trauma, and mental illness can manifest. Training should also provide best practices on the kinds of support a child may need and guidance on how to approach conversations with parents—always with an eye toward destigmatizing mental health. Lastly, training sessions should be tailored based on the needs of the school community.

Leveraging digital tools as an aid, not a replacement

The adoption of technology over the past few years has soared. But please don’t misinterpret these tools as substitutes for human connection. For example, the rollout of advanced safety features for cars has not replaced drivers–rather, they’ve augmented the driver’s experience and have improved safety. The same can be said for digital tools for mental health.

Digital tools–such as those that make practicing self-regulation skills engaging or calming and meditation apps–will be most effective when a caring adult is guiding students through the process and use of these tools. Educators should recognize the value they possess in helping children recover from traumatic events while integrating digital tools with intention. The ultimate goal is empowering children and teens to become more curious about themselves and learn about their brains and emotions.

Investing in the long term requires constant evolution

Investing in the well-being and mental health of students and staff cannot be “set it and forget it.” It requires constant monitoring and adjustments to ensure offerings hit the mark for a school community.

It’s important to identify key indicators, such as improved attendance or academic achievement, or higher engagement in extracurriculars, and track these measures over time. Additionally, surveying students and staff to create data-driven insights may be helpful to track progress. It might feel like trial and error at times, but it’s important to land on the right fit for an individual school community rather than a cookie-cutter approach.

Investing in mental health training, resources, and digital tools not only supports students’ immediate needs but also creates a foundation for the long term. By leaning into the power of human connection and leveraging digital health tools, schools can proactively enhance student well-being, fostering an environment that promotes healthy emotional development and academic success. When children feel empowered and can reach their fullest potential, society will be in a much better place for generations to come.

Related:
3 key actions for trauma-informed student supports
3 tools to support trauma-informed teaching