5th August 2024
School districts across the U.S. are adopting mental health practices as a part of their daily schedules and curriculums
In response to growing concerns about student mental health, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, schools across the U.S. are implementing mindfulness programs. These initiatives aim to help students manage stress and emotions, with support from organizations like the CDC.
The CDC endorsed schools' use of mindfulness practices in 2023. They reported that more than a third of students were affected by feelings of persistent sadness and hopelessness. Dr. Mandy Cohen, CDC Director, emphasized the importance of teaching coping skills to teenagers and adolescents.
Programs like Inner Explorer, supported by GreenLight Fund Atlanta, focus on accessibility for communities of color. This is crucial as CDC statistics show that between 2007 and 2020, the suicide rate among Black children and teens ages 10 to 17 increased by 144%.
The Inner Explorer program guides students and teachers through 5-10 minute sessions of breathing, meditating, and reflecting several times a day. It's used in Clayton County Public Schools, Atlanta Public Schools, and over 100 other districts across the country.
Teachers and administrators report noticeable differences in their students since incorporating mindfulness into their routine. Students like Aniyah Woods, 9, and Malachi Smith, 9, have found the exercises helpful for stress relief and self-confidence.
Despite some political controversy surrounding social-emotional learning, advocates argue that these mindfulness programs bring much-needed attention to students' well-being. As schools continue to adopt these practices, they aim to equip students with valuable skills for managing emotions and coping with stress, potentially addressing critical mental health issues among youth.