New Jersey Department of Education

Mental Health

According to a 2021 report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), of individuals ages 13–17, 14% experience mood disorders, 32% experience anxiety disorders, and 19% experience behavior disorders. Common diagnoses for children aged 3–17 years include attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), behavioral/conduct problems, anxiety, and depression.

Schools are in a distinct position to recognize the early signs of mental, behavioral, and developmental disorders, provide social-emotional support services, and foster skills necessary to address challenges during the adolescent years. In doing so, schools can contribute to the overall emotional, social and academic success of each student.


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