My State Is Granting Students Mental Health Days, But Some Parents Are Unhappy

My State Is Granting Students Mental Health Days, But Some Parents Are Unhappyartificial insemination kit for humans

When I shared this development in a local parenting group on social media, I was taken aback by the mixed reactions. Comments were almost evenly split between supporters and detractors. Many parents who understood mental health issues expressed gratitude for the new law, while others criticized it, claiming that parental involvement is key to addressing a child’s struggles.

One commenter suggested that if a child is having difficulties, it’s the parents’ responsibility to fix the problem. I disagree with the notion that a child’s mental health struggles are solely the result of parenting. In fact, if a child is diagnosed, it reflects a parent’s commitment to understanding and supporting their child’s needs. However, the current mental health support system is overwhelmed, especially post-COVID. Many families face long wait times for appointments, often needing to pull children from school to seek help, leading to unexcused absences that can have consequences.

Another individual questioned why children seem to face more mental health issues today, attributing it to fragility and entitlement. This perspective ignores the reality that about 7.1% of children aged three to seventeen experience anxiety—equating to around 4.4 million kids. Additionally, 3.2% of this age group suffers from depression. Mental health conditions can lead to serious symptoms, affecting a child’s ability to function in school.

It’s crucial to recognize that mental health is just as important as physical health. When a child is struggling, forcing them to attend school can hinder their ability to learn. I believe that mental health days should be embraced, not stigmatized. If some parents don’t find them necessary for their families, that’s fine, but it’s important not to dismiss the needs of those who do. We should focus on supporting children in finding the help they need, instead of perpetuating outdated stigmas.

The comments I encountered reflected a concerning level of ableism surrounding mental health. As someone who has experienced anxiety, I know firsthand how debilitating it can be. The progress we’ve made in recognizing mental health issues is encouraging, and I am grateful for the steps our state is taking to support youth in this area. Ideally, we would extend this understanding to teachers and other staff members as well.

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Summary

Illinois is allowing students to take five excused mental health days, a move that has received mixed reactions from parents. While some support the initiative, others question its necessity, attributing mental health issues to parenting. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing mental health as a valid concern among youth and the need for supportive measures in education.

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