When students wake up sick from a fever or a sore throat, it’s gonna turn into a stay-at-home sick day. But what happens when the pain is internal, such as anxiety, burnout or emotional exhaustion? Do schools and parents let them stay home to cure these types of issues? A growing number of students, teachers and mental health professionals are saying it’s time for schools to recognize mental health as just as important as the students’ physical health.

In today’s fast-paced, high-pressure educational environment, students are facing more mental challenges than ever before. Between their academic schedules, extracurricular activities and sports, the need for mental health support is growing rapidly. However, schools often treat mental and physical health quite differently.

Senora Blanchard argues that mental health days shouldn’t be excused, saying, “Everyone’s experience is different, and everyone is going through different things, and students must communicate with teachers. I think that mental health days shouldn’t be excused in schools because it’s hard to miss school, and many feel that coming to school makes them feel less stressed because they get to socialize. If you can, I would try to make it to school to take care of yourself and not miss so much work because oftentimes that can be even more stressful.”

Going through the perspectives on whether or not mental health days should be recognized is different between a student and a teacher. Now let’s hear from a current junior, Reagan Raff.

Reagan Raff, a current junior, now recognizes how school affects her mental health: “Yes, I think mental health days should be excused because it’s something to look forward to, and if the whole school has it, it’s a day to catch up and do what you need to.” shares Raff, “School lowers my mental health because, in general, all the stress of tests and the amount of work and the pressure of needing to do well to have a successful life is overwhelming and can lead to high stress levels.”

As awareness around mental health continues to grow, it’s time for schools to evolve. Excusing mental health days is not just a policy change — it’s a cultural shift toward compassion and understanding the balance. Supporting students means supporting all aspects of their health and mental wellness, which deserve more attention.