Because “Just Tough It Out” Was Never a Great Strategy
We know teachers are facing plenty of pressure day in and day out. But let’s be real: students aren’t having it much easier! Mental health in 2025 isn’t just “nice to have,” it’s more of a “can’t-ignore-it-any-longer, why-aren’t-we-doing-this-already” kind of deal. Let’s face it, students are under more stress than ever.
But there is a silver lining: supporting student mental health doesn’t need to involve twelve meditation apps or burning sage in homeroom. You can build a healthier school environment with small, smart moves that won’t blow your budget (or your sanity). Start with our list below, but also check out EDU Blog for more helpful insights, fresh perspectives, and practical strategies to start the conversation with a bit of humor and a lot of heart.
Here are 10 strategies that are doable, kind of fun, and weirdly effective:
1. Ditch the Fake Positivity
Create a culture where students feel good in their own skin — no filters, no “toxic positivity” posters. Celebrate effort and individuality, not perfection. Give them the safe space to face their issues head on rather than just sticking on a brave face.
2. Stress Management That Isn’t Cringe
Use mindfulness breaks, journaling, or just giving students the chance to breathe and talk it out. It’s not rocket science (though it does kinda feel like it sometimes).
3. Go Outside (Yes, Maybe Even for Algebra)
Fresh air boosts moods! Learning outside can make a big difference. Plus a bit of vitamin D also reduces the chance of falling asleep at a desk.
4. School That Feels Like a Community, Not a Competition
Host collaborative activities that promote interdependence, empathy, & inclusion over cliques and comparison.
5. Invest in Actual Mental Health Services
Set up collabs with the student counselor – you know, someone who has time to actually counsel. Whether this means regular 1:1s for students in a private space, or inviting the counselor to give short mental health lessons to the class every month or so, it’s all part of the big beautiful picture of making mental health a top priority.
6. Train Teachers to Notice More Than Missing Homework
Educators aren’t therapists, but they should know the signs of a student in distress. EDU Businesses can get a step ahead by giving educators the professional development to spot the red flags.
7. Bring Parents Into the Loop
Mental health is a full-time job. Keep parents informed and involved (minus the educational jargon).
8. Actually Do SEL
Social-emotional learning isn’t optional. It teaches students how to cope with life (and group projects).
9. Make Mental Health Day a Thing
A full school day dedicated to well-being, real talk, and maybe even therapy dogs. Normalize it!
10. Schedule Free Time (Like, On Purpose)
Unstructured time matters. Let students decompress, discover hobbies, and just be kids.
Students Deserve Better (and So Do You)
Want real talk and real strategies for supporting student wellness? EDU Passport has your back.
We’re not just here to help. We’re here to make your job easier (and your impact way bigger).
Subscribe now at edupassport.io for ready-to-roll resources that make supporting student mental health feel less like guesswork and more like progress.
