A recent survey conducted by the EdWeek Research Center reveals that the majority of schools across the United States are not implementing mental health screenings for students, despite recommendations from experts in the field. School psychologists and counselors emphasize the importance of screening students for signs of poor mental health, considering it one of the most effective strategies for providing necessary support.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which exacerbated a decade-long trend of worsening adolescent mental health, youth mental health has emerged as a top policy priority for educational leaders at various levels. While efforts have been made to address the issue, such as hiring more school psychologists and counselors and partnering with external mental health providers, the adoption of mental health screenings has been notably slow.
According to the survey conducted by the EdWeek Research Center, 68 percent of principals and district leaders stated that their districts do not employ universal mental health screenings. Only 22 percent reported that their districts conducted screenings in specific grade levels, and a mere 10 percent used screeners in every grade level. The survey gathered responses from 266 district leaders and 160 school leaders, providing a nationally representative sample.
Despite the recognized benefits of mental health screenings by organizations like the National Association of School Psychologists and the National Center for School Mental Health, the slow adoption of this strategy is evident nationwide. Only Colorado, Illinois, and New Jersey currently have laws providing funding and resources for schools to implement mental health screenings.
Challenges such as concerns about parent consent and resource limitations have hindered the progress of bills supporting mental health screenings in several states. Opposition from parent rights advocates has been noted, as demonstrated by the passage of a mental health screening program in Colorado for students in 6th through 12th grades, despite objections.
In the survey, district and school leaders who have implemented mental health screenings report their efficacy in identifying students in need of additional support. The screeners, consisting of a series of questions about students’ emotions and feelings, help identify signs of depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. While not diagnostic tools, these screenings serve as an initial step in providing extra support or care to students who require it.
According to survey findings, 73 percent of district leaders and principals utilizing mental health screeners believe the tools help identify students requiring assistance, allowing mental health professionals to engage with them. Additionally, 66 percent use the screeners to inform parents when their child may need help and to refer them to a mental health professional. Nearly half (46 percent) state that the screenings aid in determining the mental health services offered on campus, while 43 percent claim they contribute to decisions about programs and curriculum, including social-emotional learning.
