A Guardian report from April 2024 (“Mental Health Support in Schools Fails to Meet Rising Demand, Experts Warn”) highlighted the deepening crisis of student mental health in the UK. The article described long waiting lists for school counsellors and a lack of specialist resources, painting a sobering picture that feels very real to me. At my school, I’ve watched friends struggle with anxiety and burnout, sometimes waiting months for help or hiding their worries altogether.
Reading the article, I was reminded of my own journey last year when I joined a peer support group for the first time. I was nervous, unsure what to expect, but quickly realized how much it helps to simply be heard. The Guardian piece explained that students are often more comfortable opening up to peers than adults—something I found to be true in our group.
But the article also calls for more systemic action. While individual teachers and students do what they can, real change requires government investment, better training, and a culture that truly prioritizes well-being. I hope to study psychology so I can contribute to this shift. The article affirmed my belief that mental health is not just a personal issue, but a societal one, and schools must lead the way in breaking the silence.
Sophie Clarke
- United Kingdom
- Female
- Year 12 (Sixth Form), City of London School for Girls
- Intended Major: Psychology
- Role: Outreach & Social Media Lead
- Introduction:
Fascinated by how people think and connect, I love bringing communities together through dialogue. As Outreach & Social Media Lead, I’m committed to building a vibrant, supportive space where every student’s voice can shine.