In response to the growing mental health challenges facing America’s youth, The Jed Foundation (JED) and AASA, The School Superintendents Association, have joined forces to launch an initiative supporting mental health and suicide prevention in school districts nationwide.
The JED and AASA District Mental Health Initiative is a step forward in addressing the need for districtwide mental health support in pre-K–12 school environments. The initiative builds on JED’s comprehensive approach to mental health promotion and suicide prevention, which has demonstrated success across more than 400 colleges and universities.
Why Now?
Recent data paints a concerning picture of youth mental health in America. According to the CDC, more than 40% of high school students reported feeling persistently sad or hopeless in 2023, while nearly one in five seriously considered attempting suicide. These statistics underscore the need for systematic, evidence-based approaches to supporting student well-being.
District leaders understand that protecting students’ emotional well-being is fundamental to both their safety and academic success. Building comprehensive mental health services and initiatives requires careful planning, deep expertise, and a nuanced understanding of each district’s unique needs. The JED and AASA District Mental Health Initiative supports school districts through a comprehensive process that strengthens student mental health systems. Working with JED’s experienced team, districts evaluate their current support structures, identify areas of strength and opportunity, and enhance their approaches using evidence-based research and best practices.
A Comprehensive Approach
The initiative provides participating school districts with a framework for developing and implementing comprehensive mental health strategies. Through this collaborative effort, districts receive:
- Expert guidance from JED’s mental health specialists
- Evidence-based assessment tools
- Strategic planning support
- Implementation assistance
- Opportunities for peer learning and networking
- Access to JED’s extensive resource library
The program emphasizes seven key areas that are essential for supporting student mental health:
- Developing life skills
- Promoting social connectedness and a positive climate and culture
- Encouraging help-seeking behaviors
- Improving recognition and response to signs of distress and risk
- Ensuring access to effective mental health treatment
- Establishing and following crisis management procedures
- Promoting means safety
Building Stronger Communities
“Through this partnership with JED, we are equipping school leaders with the tools and strategies necessary to build safer, more supportive environments where students can thrive. By addressing mental health at the systems level, we are transforming how we care for the whole child, ensuring that every student is set up for success both in and out of the classroom,” says David R. Schuler, PhD, AASA executive director.
The initiative launched with an inaugural cohort of 15 diverse school districts from across the country. These districts serve as pioneers in implementing comprehensive mental health strategies, providing valuable insights and best practices for future participants.
Looking Ahead
As the initiative grows, JED and AASA aim to create a network of school districts committed to prioritizing student mental health and well-being. This collaborative approach will allow districts to share experiences, resources, and successful strategies, ultimately building a stronger foundation for student mental health support nationwide.
School districts interested in joining this transformative initiative can learn more by visiting the JED website or contacting the program team directly at [email protected].
By bringing together expertise in education and youth mental health, this partnership aims to create more supportive, resilient school communities where all students can thrive.
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