Why 46% of Schools Report Worsening Student Mental Health (And 5 Ways Chicagoland Families Can Bridge the Gap)

If you're a parent in Chicagoland, you've probably noticed something troubling: more kids are struggling with anxiety, depression, and emotional challenges than ever before. You're not imagining it, and you're definitely not alone in feeling concerned.

Recent data reveals that school mental health providers across the country are reporting significantly worsening student mental health: with some studies showing increases as high as 58% compared to previous years. Here in the Chicago area, our schools are facing the same crisis that's sweeping the nation, and it's leaving many families wondering how to help their children navigate these challenging times.

The reality is stark: 52% of public schools report being unable to effectively provide mental health services to students who need them. That means more than half of our kids' schools simply don't have the resources to address the growing mental health needs they're witnessing every day.

But here's what we want you to know: while this situation feels overwhelming, there are concrete ways you as a family can step in to support your child and bridge the gap between what schools can provide and what your child actually needs.

Understanding Why Student Mental Health Is Declining

The mental health crisis in our schools didn't happen overnight, and it's not just one thing causing the problem. Several factors have converged to create what many experts are calling a "perfect storm" for student mental health challenges.

The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally changed how our kids experience school, friendships, and daily life. The isolation, uncertainty, and disruptions to in-person learning left lasting impacts that we're still seeing today. Students who were in middle or high school during the pandemic missed crucial developmental experiences and social connections that are hard to make up for.

Beyond the pandemic, our schools are facing three major barriers that prevent them from adequately supporting student mental health:

Limited funding is the biggest challenge. Many Chicago-area schools are already stretched thin with their budgets, making it difficult to hire additional mental health professionals or expand existing programs. When schools have to choose between basic educational needs and mental health services, mental health often gets pushed to the back burner.

Staff shortages create another significant bottleneck. There simply aren't enough licensed mental health professionals to meet the growing demand. Even schools with funding for mental health positions struggle to fill them, leaving students on waiting lists for services they desperately need.

Lack of training among existing school staff means that teachers and support personnel often feel unprepared to identify students in distress or respond appropriately. While educators care deeply about their students' wellbeing, they may not have the specialized knowledge needed to recognize early warning signs or make effective referrals.

The numbers tell a concerning story about what our kids are experiencing. The percentage of high school students reporting persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness jumped from 30% in 2013 to 40% in 2023. Even more alarming, those seriously considering suicide increased from 17% to 20% during the same period.

Five Ways Chicagoland Families Can Bridge the Gap

While we can't solve the entire mental health crisis overnight, there are powerful steps you can take as a parent or caregiver to support your child and help fill the gaps in school-based services.

1. Become Your Child's Mental Health Advocate

Don't wait for your child's school to reach out to you: take the initiative to communicate about your child's mental health needs. When you notice changes in your child's behavior, sleep patterns, academic performance, or social interactions, document these concerns specifically and request meetings with school counselors or mental health professionals.

Research shows that schools are actually six times more likely to help students complete mental health treatment compared to community settings, so getting connected to school-based services can make a real difference. However, you need to be proactive about making these connections happen.

Come to school meetings prepared with specific examples and questions. Instead of saying "My child seems anxious," try "I've noticed my daughter has had three panic attacks before school in the past two weeks, and she's asked to stay home four times this month. What mental health resources are available to help her manage these symptoms?"

2. Build a Support Network Beyond School

While school-based services are valuable, don't put all your eggs in that basket. Chicago has incredible community mental health resources that can complement what schools provide: or step in when school resources aren't available.

Connect with your child's pediatrician for referrals to mental health professionals who specialize in working with children and teens. Many healthcare providers in the Chicagoland area have experience navigating both school systems and community mental health services.

Look into local organizations like community centers, faith-based groups, or neighborhood programs that offer support groups for families dealing with mental health challenges. Sometimes informal peer support can be just as valuable as formal therapy.

The key is creating multiple layers of support so your child has several places to turn when they need help. Mental health services that are integrated across different settings: home, school, and community: tend to be most effective for long-term success.

3. Create Mental Health Conversations at Home

One of the most powerful things you can do is normalize conversations about mental health in your family. When mental health becomes a regular topic of discussion: not just something you talk about during a crisis: your child is much more likely to come to you when they're struggling.

Try implementing regular "emotional check-ins" with your children. This doesn't have to be formal or scheduled, but make it a habit to ask not just "How was school?" but "How are you feeling emotionally today?" or "What was the most stressful part of your day?"

Share your own experiences with stress, anxiety, or sadness in age-appropriate ways. When kids see adults talking openly about mental health challenges, it removes some of the shame and stigma that might prevent them from seeking help.

Nearly a third of students report that anxiety and depression are everyday realities in their classrooms, yet many suffer in silence because they're afraid of being judged. By creating an open, non-judgmental environment at home, you're giving your child permission to be honest about their struggles.

4. Address Academic Pressure and Lifestyle Factors

Academic stress is a major contributor to student mental health challenges, and it's something families can directly influence. Around 60% of students experience daily stress related to school, and 77% of high schoolers aren't getting enough sleep: two factors that significantly impact mental health.

Take an honest look at your family's expectations around academic achievement. While it's natural to want your child to succeed, unrealistic pressure can backfire and contribute to anxiety and depression. Focus on effort and growth rather than just grades and test scores.

Help your child develop healthy stress management techniques. This might include regular exercise, mindfulness practices, creative outlets, or simply ensuring they have downtime that isn't scheduled or structured.

Pay attention to sleep schedules and screen time, both of which can significantly impact mood and emotional regulation. Many teens are staying up late on devices and then struggling to concentrate and manage emotions during the school day.

5. Learn to Recognize Warning Signs and Know When to Act

Education is one of your most powerful tools as a parent. The more you know about mental health warning signs, the faster you can connect your child to appropriate help.

Watch for changes in sleep patterns, appetite, or energy levels. Notice if your child is withdrawing from activities they used to enjoy or if their academic performance suddenly declines. Pay attention to expressions of hopelessness, worthlessness, or talk about not wanting to be alive.

It's important to understand that 13-20% of children meet the criteria for a mental disorder in any given year, but only about 12% actually receive services. This means many children are struggling without getting the help they need.

Familiarize yourself with local crisis resources and know when to use them. If your child expresses thoughts of self-harm or suicide, don't wait: contact a mental health professional, your child's doctor, or a crisis hotline immediately.

Moving Forward Together

The student mental health crisis is real, and it's affecting families throughout Chicagoland. But remember that you're not powerless in this situation. While schools are doing their best with limited resources, you as a parent have unique insight into your child's wellbeing and can serve as a powerful advocate for their mental health needs.

The goal isn't to replace professional mental health services: it's to create a comprehensive support system that includes family, school, and community resources working together. When families take proactive steps at home and partner effectively with schools, children are much more likely to get the support they need to thrive both emotionally and academically.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by your child's mental health needs, remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. The Mental Health Association of Greater Chicago is here to support families navigating these challenges. For help and resources, visit us at our website or reach out to discuss how we can support your family's mental health journey.

Your child's mental health matters, and with the right support and advocacy, they can develop the resilience and coping skills they need to succeed. Let's work together to bridge the gap and ensure every child in Chicagoland has access to the mental health support they deserve.