Supporting Student Mental Health: How to Help Students Manage Stress and Anxiety at School

Stress and anxiety are becoming increasingly common among students, impacting not only academic performance but also emotional and physical well-being. With the rising pressure of tests, peer relationships, extracurriculars, and life outside of school, students of all ages need support in managing their mental health.

As educators, parents, or school counselors, it’s vital to create an environment that fosters resilience and equips students with practical tools to manage stress and anxiety effectively.

Understanding the Sources of Student Stress

Before offering solutions, it's helpful to understand where stress comes from. Common sources include:

• Academic pressure (grades, exams, heavy workloads)

• Social stress (friendships, bullying, peer acceptance)

• Family expectations or instability

• Lack of sleep and poor time management

• Transitions (changing schools, puberty, post-graduation uncertainty)

Reference: American Psychological Association (APA), 2019. Stress in America: Youth and College Students Report High Levels of Stress.

1. Create a Supportive School Environment

A safe and supportive atmosphere helps reduce anxiety before it begins. Encourage open communication and make mental health support visible and accessible.

Strategies:

• Designate quiet or wellness spaces.

• Train teachers in mental health first aid.

• Promote a culture where it's okay to ask for help.

Reference: National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). (n.d.). Creating a Safe and Supportive School Environment.

2. Teach Stress Management Skills

Incorporate life skills and emotional education into the classroom. Teaching students how to regulate their emotions is just as important as teaching math or science.

Effective techniques include:

• Deep breathing and mindfulness exercises

• Journaling or reflective writing

• Short movement breaks or stretching

• Time management and organization tips

Reference: Mindful Schools. (2022). Mindfulness in Education Research Highlights.

3. Encourage Balance, Not Perfection

Help students set realistic expectations. Normalize mistakes and setbacks as part of the learning process.

Support this by:

• Recognizing effort, not just outcomes

• Avoiding overload—watch for overscheduling

• Modeling healthy boundaries around work and rest

“Students thrive when their efforts are celebrated, not just their achievements.”

4. Foster Connections and Belonging

Positive peer relationships and trusted adult connections reduce anxiety and build resilience.

Ways to promote belonging:

• Support inclusive clubs or activities

• Encourage mentorship between older and younger students

• Include team-building and collaborative projects

Reference: CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning). (n.d.). The Importance of Relationships in SEL.

5. Provide Access to Professional Support

Early intervention is key. Schools should have clear pathways to refer students for counseling or therapy when needed.

Support systems may include:

• On-site counselors or social workers

• Partnerships with community mental health organizations

• Parent-teacher-student communication about mental health signs

Reference: CDC. (2022). Mental Health in Schools: A Hidden Crisis Affecting Millions of Students.

6. Involve Families in the Conversation

Stress management begins at home. Engaging parents and caregivers helps reinforce healthy habits and open dialogue about emotions.

Suggestions:

• Host mental health awareness nights

• Share resources in newsletters or school portals

• Offer parenting workshops on adolescent mental health

Final Thoughts

Helping students manage stress and anxiety isn’t about eliminating pressure altogether—it’s about empowering them with tools, perspective, and support. When schools prioritize mental health, students are better equipped to learn, grow, and thrive.

Together, we can create a school environment where mental wellness is valued just as much as academic success.

If you or your student need help dealing with stress and anxiety at school, reach out to ResilienSEA Health Solutions.