Impact of a School-Based Mental Health Program on Academic Outcomes
David J Cipriano1, Samuel A Maurice2
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, dcipriano@mcw.edu.
WMJ : Official Publication of the State Medical Society of Wisconsin
|February 5, 2025
Summary
School-based mental health services improve academic achievement and reduce disciplinary issues in children. Increased participation correlates with better attendance and fewer suspensions, highlighting the benefits of accessible mental health care.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Educational Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Academic achievement is a key indicator of child development, closely tied to mental health.
- High prevalence of childhood mental illness contrasts with low treatment rates.
- School-based mental health programs aim to increase access to care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of school-based mental health services on academic achievement and behavior.
- To determine if school-based mental health care improves access to treatment and reduces distress.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study of 465 children in an urban school district referred for mental health services.
- Collected data on attendance, disciplinary referrals, suspensions, and academic achievement over one academic year.
Main Results:
- Participation in school-based mental health services was linked to lower suspension rates.
- Higher math achievement scores were observed in children receiving these services.
- Dose-dependent relationships were found between service use and attendance/suspensions.
Conclusions:
- School-based mental health care enhances access to treatment, potentially reducing health inequities.
- These services are associated with improvements in academic performance and school-related behaviors.
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