According to a WebMD article, five nonprofits have partnered to sponsor Student Mental Health Week February 6-12, but why now?

Chegg.org – the impact, advocacy, and research arm of education technology company Chegg

“A recent study showed that nearly one-third of students worldwide said their mental health has worsened since returning to campus following the COVID-19 lockdowns.”

The Jed Foundation – working to protect emotional well-being and prevent suicide among teens and young adults

“Even before the pandemic, we’ve seen increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide deaths among students. Young people are exposed constantly to wars around the world, the social and political unrest in our country and the climate crisis – things that adults never were when they were teenagers. I don’t think we recognize how much they’re dealing with.” – Laura Erickson-Schroth, MD, chief medical officer at the Jed Foundation

Born This Way Foundation, launched by Lady Gaga – committed to supporting the wellness of young people, and empowering them to create a kinder and braver world

“We all have mental health concerns. The beauty of our generation is that we’re a lot more open about talking about these issues. That’s a beautiful thing. After all, opening up and sharing your story is a strength, not a weakness. It shows you have the courage to share what you’re going through.” – Cherrial Odell, a Stanford University sophomore who survived and adverse childhood and suicide, who serves on the board of Born This Way

Inspiring Children Foundation, co-chaired by singer-songwriter Jewel – running programs to nurture young people’s mental, emotional, and physical health

“Since the Covid pandemic, anxiety and depression have reached historical highs, with young people particularly affected. We are proud to join this important campaign, to encourage students to share the simple ways in which they nurture their mental health to become their best selves, and how their communities can help them get there.” – Jewel

Young Invincibles – leads advocacy efforts centered on improving the lives of young adults and increasing their access to mental health services

“It is reassuring to witness mental health wellness finally receiving the attention it deserves, and we are determined to continue our efforts in shedding light on this issue.” – Kristin McGuire, Executive Director of Young Invincibles

The Varkey Foundation – looks to improve the quality of education for every child by building the status of teachers around the world

“Today’s students face the monumental task of solving some of humanity’s greatest challenges to build a better tomorrow, and it’s essential that we support their mental wellness. We look forward to working with our Global Teacher Prize community to help share their insights from the frontlines of education, and alert policymakers to the tools educators need to support their students’ mental health, as well as their own.” – Sunny Varkey, Founder of the Varkey Foundation

Educators across the nation are voicing their approval. Neal Horen, PhD, director of the early childhood division at the Center for Child and Human Development and director of the HOYA clinic in Georgetown University’s Department of Psychiatry, emphasizes the need to be aware of the potential pitfalls students may face at this time of major change in their lives.

“Going to college can be amazing or it can be an arduous trek if we’re not paying attention. This is a major time of identity formation with kids asking themselves ‘who am I,’ ‘where do I fit in.’ That plus the immediate independence they may experience living away from home is a big demand to put on someone and can lead to mental health challenges we have to pay attention to.”

Read the article here or the press release here.

Learn more about Student Mental Health Week.