Website: School-Based Behavioral Health

Visit our new website dedicated to school-based behavioral health programs and their implementation. The website is a joint effort from the Collaborative: Georgia Appleseed, Voices for Georgia’s Children, the Carter Center and Resilient Georgia.

Research underscores the dual benefits of School-Based Behavioral Health (SBBH) programs, benefiting both students and schools. These programs enhance academic performance, foster social skills, and reinforce community ties while addressing truancy and discipline issues.

Over the past 15 years, the prevalence of behavioral health disorders among American youth has surged, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools are uniquely poised to tackle these issues, given their pivotal role in students’ lives.

SBBH programs bridge gaps by offering care within schools, a comfortable and trusted setting for students and their families. Healthy students excel academically, actively participate in school life, and build resilient relationships, while untreated issues hamper their growth.

Comprehensive SBBH programs have proven effective, improving student well-being and cultivating a positive school climate. The early identification and referral resources they provide also help destigmatize behavioral health concerns and treatments in schools.