Back-to-School Season Puts Spotlight on Children’s Mental Health

Lyon & Storey Counties NV – August 18, 2026

Written by the staff at the Healthy Community Coalition of Lyon & Storey Counties

Parent Corner News Column for August 2026

Back-to-School Season Puts Spotlight on Children’s Mental Health

As summer’s long days begin to fade and families prepare for the return of early mornings, packed lunches, and school routines, mental health experts are reminding communities that school readiness involves more than fresh notebooks and new shoes. It also means supporting the emotional well-being of children as they transition into a new academic year.

Dr. Sunny Patel of the Center for Mental Health Services notes that the back-to-school season brings a mix of excitement and understandable nerves for millions of students nationwide. Healthy Communities Coalition of Lyon & Storey Counties and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) emphasize that mental health is a key part of helping children succeed — both in and out of the classroom.

Why Mental Health Matters in School Success

Child and adolescent mental health challenges often go unnoticed, yet they can significantly affect learning, behavior, and development. Research shows that one in five children experiences a diagnosable mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder, but many never receive the support they need.

Experts say that recognizing mental health as part of school readiness can help families better prepare their children for the year ahead — especially as students continue adjusting to post-pandemic routines and expectations.

Helping Children Ease Into the New School Year

The transition back to school can feel overwhelming, whether a child is starting kindergarten, entering middle school, or simply saying goodbye to the freedom of summer. SAMHSA encourages families to take small, proactive steps to make the shift smoother:

· Open the conversation. Invite children to share how they feel about returning to school. Acknowledge their worries and reassure them that nervousness is normal during big transitions.

· Re-establish routines. Consistent sleep schedules, healthy meals, and predictable daily rhythms help children feel grounded as they adjust to school demands.

· Prepare ahead. Visiting the school, meeting teachers, and practicing morning routines can boost confidence and reduce first-day jitters.

· Encourage social connections. Reconnecting with classmates or arranging playdates can help children feel more comfortable and excited about returning to school.

How Schools Can Support Student Well-Being

Educators play a vital role in creating environments where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. SAMHSA highlights several ways schools can strengthen mental health support:

· Recognize early signs. Training teachers to identify mental health concerns ensures students receive help sooner.

· Create safe spaces. Welcoming, judgment-free environments encourage students to speak up about their feelings.

· Integrate mental health education. Teaching students about emotional well-being reduces stigma and builds empathy across the school community.

Resources for Families and Educators

A variety of national resources are available to help families and schools support children’s mental health, including:

 “Talk. They Hear You.”® substance use prevention campaign

StopBullying.gov and SchoolSafety.gov

SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

 FindSupport.gov for treatment and support options

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org

Local resources are also available, including:

Lyon County Human Services C3 for Youth: Young people deserve immediate support when they’re in crisis. If a young person in your life is in crisis, one call can make a difference. To make a C3 referral, call (775) 430-0327, Monday – Friday, 8AM – 5PM. The C3 (Crisis, Community, Connection) team provides immediate help when youth need it most. Call M-F 8am-5pm, 775-430-0324.

Nevada PEP is a statewide non-profit organization in Nevada that provides education, support, and advocacy for families raising children and youth with disabilities and behavioral health needs from birth through age 26.  Statewide toll-free line at 1-800-216-5188

Lyon County Human Services Children’s Services’ programs seek to strengthen and preserve families, providing them with support and resources to work towards more stable and productive lives. Programs for residents of Lyon County include Parenting Classes, Nevada Families First home visiting, Family Support Program and more. Phone: (775) 577-5009 x 3314.

A Shared Commitment to Healthy, Resilient Students

As the new school year approaches, Healthy Communities Coalition encourages families, educators, and communities to make mental health a central part of back-to-school planning. By supporting children’s emotional well-being, adults help create the foundation for a successful, confident, and fulfilling year ahead.