The Power of Human Skills Programs in Supporting Mental Well-Being

Mental health challenges among students are on the rise—and schools are feeling the impact. With nearly 40% of high school students reporting persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, the consequences on their academic performance, behavior, and overall well-being are far-reaching. But there’s hope: universal school-based human skills programs are designed to support student mental health and well-being.

Human skills programs aren’t just about students learning how to manage their emotions or communicate with others effectively. They’re also about creating a culture where students feel supported and valued—a culture where mental health is prioritized, where students know they feel safe. And the impact? Improved mental wellness, better academic performance, and a school environment where students thrive, not just survive.

The hidden toll of mental health struggles on students

The impact of poor mental health on students is undeniable. Mental health challenges like depression and anxiety affect millions of students each year. In fact, one in six US youth aged 6 to 17 experience a mental health disorder each year, and half of all mental health conditions begin by age 14.

The consequences of untreated mental health struggles go beyond missed school days or disrupted classrooms. These issues can lead to problems with behavior, which in turn detract from students’ ability to focus on their studies and achieve their goals. As educators, it’s crucial to recognize how these challenges negatively impact students and to find proactive ways that support their emotional and mental well-being.

Invest in student mental health with human skills programs

Here’s where human skills programs come in. These programs are foundational to supporting mental wellness, resilience, and emotional well-being, as they teach students how to regulate their emotions, make thoughtful decisions, and build strong relationships. Human skills programs can also help students manage mental health challenges or crises.

The evidence is clear: in addition to supporting students’ emotional health, universal school-based human skills programs also promote a positive school climate. Participation in these programs has been shown to lead to decreases in emotional distress, anxiety, and depression and to help students feel more connected to their peers and educators.

When students feel supported and empowered to manage their emotions, they’re more likely to thrive—both academically and socially. They experience increased self-esteem, optimism, and sense of belonging, which directly impacts their overall well-being and often their classroom engagement as well.

Human skills programs create safer spaces for students

One of the reasons human skills programs are so impactful is that they foster an environment where students feel safe, included, and respected. Emotional well-being is often tied to how connected students feel to their school and the people in it. Studies show that kids who feel like they belong have better mental health, are more engaged, and do better academically. So, students who feel disconnected or unsupported are more likely to struggle with their mental health and, subsequently, their studies.

Schoolwide human skills programs help bridge this gap by strengthening relationships between students and teachers and between peers. These programs are designed to develop essential skills—such as communication, empathy, and conflict resolution skills—that directly contribute to a more positive school climate. When students feel like they belong, they’re more likely to show up, participate, and perform at their best.

The ripple effect: Benefits beyond mental health

The impact of human skills programs goes far beyond mental health. Students who engage in these programs have shown improved academic performance, reduced behavioral issues, and lower levels of anxiety and stress. Research also shows that high school students who have better well-being and a strong sense of community at school generally demonstrate better stress management, better resilience, and fewer absences and disciplinary referrals.

These positive outcomes could create a ripple effect as students engage in school and build positive relationships with others. This, in turn, can create a stronger foundation for future success. The human skills that students strengthen and hone will last far beyond school, in life and future careers.

Ready to create a positive school environment?

Mental health struggles in students is a challenge that affects every educator and every classroom. But by investing in human skills programs, you’re taking a critical step in improving students’ mental well-being, boosting their academic success, and creating a school environment where they feel supported both academically and emotionally.

If you’re ready to build a school climate that prioritizes mental wellness and helps students develop the skills they need to succeed, it’s time to explore our Second Step® family of programs. These research-based programs support students from Early Learning through Grade 12, providing the tools they need to thrive both academically and emotionally.

Let’s work together to create an environment where every student feels seen, heard, and, most importantly, valued. You can schedule a free district consultation to discuss how Second Step programs can align with your district’s goals and set students up for success in the classroom and beyond.