The claim that "school takes a toll on mental health" is true, and it's backed by a growing body of research and expert consensus. Academic pressure, social expectations, and the competitive environment of modern schooling can significantly impact students' emotional well-being. According to TreatmentIndiana.com, teens often feel compelled to prioritize academic achievement due to pressure from teachers, parents, and coaches. This stress can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. The site emphasizes that while school is intended to foster learning and growth, the overwhelming demands can make it feel more like a burden than a support system.
https://www.treatmentindiana.com/how-academic-pressure-takes-a-toll-on-mental-health/
To support this, the American Psychological Association reports that school is one of the top sources of stress for adolescents, with many students citing homework, grades, and college preparation as major contributors. A survey by the CDC found that nearly 42% of high school students felt persistently sad or hopeless in 2021, a figure that has risen steadily over the past decade. Experts also warn that chronic academic stress can interfere with sleep, self-esteem, and social relationships, compounding the mental health toll.
https://www.apa.org/topics/children/stress
https://www.apa.org/ed/schools/primer/stress
https://www.cdc.gov/yrbs/results/2021-yrbs-results.html
This claim is factually supported. While education is essential, the structure and culture of many school systems can unintentionally harm students' mental health. Addressing this issue requires systemic changes, including better mental health resources, reduced emphasis on standardized testing, and more supportive learning environments.
