Students everywhere are overwhelmed with the pressure to be good at school and extracurriculars. The overstimulation of trying to prepare for their futures as well as doing things that they enjoy can turn into severe anxiety. Approximately 32% of adolescents from the ages of 13-18 are diagnosed with anxiety disorders. 

This issue could shrink exponentially if students were allowed to take mental health days. Even just a couple excused absences a year for mental health days could make a huge difference in a student’s wellbeing. 

Not only would it help for students to take a break from all the stress that school gives, but it would also ensure that students are aware that their school district cares about their well being. 

If students know that the people responsible for their education also hold themselves responsible for making sure they’re cared for, they’re more likely to trust those people and are less likely to dislike school.

Secondly, teachers are allowed to take two mental health days a year, so why not students? Children’s mental health is not any less important than adults’ mental health. 

Obviously, students should not be allowed to just skip school whenever they want, but they do deserve a day off from school every once in a while. If a student’s mind is too clouded by school work without a break, it’s extremely hard to focus on anything other than how tired they are. 

If kids are old enough to be responsible for their schoolwork, their grades, and their relationships, they’re old enough to determine whether or not going to school is good for their well being. We should start giving students more freedom in this field, as when they’re adults, they’re going to need to know how to determine whether or not it’s acceptable to miss work or school for a day.