Mental Health
The pressures of modern life, the complexity of our social networks and relationships, even our early childhood experiences can give rise to high levels of stress, emotion, and challenges to our mental health that are felt in our individual lives and in our communities. Having the support and insight to safely navigate these dynamics is part of what makes up our overall well-being.
Schools are increasingly aware of the importance of mental health and the impact of chronic adversity and chronic trauma. An estimated 70 – 80 percent of children who receive mental health services access those services at school. When schools support mental health, students typically have fewer disciplinary issues, can focus more on school work, and can develop skills to communicate better. This can translate to improved academic outcomes and better health later in life.
Supporting the mental health and resilience of teachers and staff is also critical for creating a positive school climate and retaining quality educators. Schools and districts that support the mental health of their employees are likely to have a workforce with lower levels of stress, improved school employee attendance, lower levels of employee turnover, and an increased ability to model positive emotions for students.
Social Emotional Health
As places of learning and growth, schools are an ideal setting to support the social and emotional health of students, staff, and teachers and to offer resources and opportunities to build resilience.
Resilience in School Environments (RISE)
Kaiser Permanente Thriving Schools developed Resilience in School Environments, or RISE, to empower schools to create safe and supportive learning environments by cultivating practices that strengthen the social and emotional health of all school employees and students.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
Toxic stress and ACEs are an under-recognized and under-addressed reason that many individuals are unable to achieve their full potential. Schools can learn to recognize opportunities for enhancing resilience in their educational spaces and structures and reduce overall exposure to adversity.
