As school starts, focus turns to youth mental health and parental stress in Florida

As the new school year approaches, it’s natural for parents and guardians to feel a mix of emotions. They are excited to see their child learn and grow and are also aware of the stress and anxiety that can come with the transition. 

Related: Depression symptoms in men: Subtle and physical cues.

Youth mental health in Florida

Mental health is a critical issue affecting youth in Florida, with thousands of children struggling to get the support they need. Here are some key statistics from a Florida Department of Health 2024 report highlighting the scope of the issue: 

• 25.6% of middle and high school students in Orange County reported feeling hopeless or sad for two or more weeks in a row and stopped doing their normal activities, compared to the state average of 27.6%.1
• Data shows 35.7% of middle and high school students in  Orange County feeling depressed or sad most days, compared to the state average of 40.7%.2
• Orange County had 7.9% of middle and high school students who reported purposefully hurting themselves without wanting to die,  compared to the state average of 11.8%.3

The importance of a positive state of mental well-being

At GuideWell and Florida Blue, we say there’s no health without mental health, which is also true for children and their parents. That’s why we’ve created a common definition for well-being and are sharing it with other organizations. Caring and supportive relationships inside and outside the family help drive overall well-being.  When children have a positive mental state, they feel more in control of their future and are better equipped to adapt to life’s stressors and navigate challenges. 

Parents are not immune to stress either. In fact, a recent survey found that 33% of parents reported high levels of stress in the past month, compared to 20% of other adults.4 This is not surprising given the many responsibilities and worries that come with parenting. Similarly, nearly three in four parents are extremely worried that their child will struggle with anxiety or depression, which can be a significant source of stress. 

Despite a strong foundation, transitions like the start of a new school year can still be challenging for children. That's why it's crucial for parents and guardians to know how to provide guidance during these times.

Strategies for supporting children

Here are some tips to support children during the back-to-school season.

• Communicate openly —Talk to children about any feelings and concerns. Listen attentively and offer reassurance.
• Establish a routine – Stick to a consistent daily schedule, including regular times for homework, meals, and after-school activities.
• Encourage self-care – Support children in developing healthy habits, such as exercise, healthy eating, and getting sufficient sleep.
• Stay involved – When possible, attend school events, meet with teachers, and stay informed about progress.
• Seek help when needed – If parents notice any signs of stress or anxiety, work closely with the child’s doctor and seek help from a mental health provider if necessary. Getting help early is important.

Additional resources for mental health and well-being

Parents and other adults in a child’s life play a critical role in supporting their mental well-being, and we're here to help. That's why we offer a range of resources and tools to help members and everyone in the community:

• Stop by one of our many Florida Blue Centers around the state to talk with a community specialist who can answer questions and help find a doctor or other resources in your community. They’re available whether you are a Florida Blue member or not. Visit your local center or call 1-877-352-5830, or learn more at FloridaBlue.com/Center.
• View our Mental Health Matters webpage for additional information on youth mental health and parental mental health.
• We offer a regular series of mental health webinars, featuring topics such as parental and youth mental health. These webinars are free and open to all; recordings are available on our YouTube playlist.

By providing the right support and resources, parents can help their children not just survive but thrive in the new school year.

As we increase awareness of the mental health challenges facing Florida's youth, we're also committed to being part of the solution. 

• During the 2025 Community Health Symposium and Sapphire Awards held in Orlando earlier this year, the Florida Blue Foundation honored nine local community organizations for their local impact work, including their advocacy and support for improving mental health and well-being.  
• Every year, the Florida Blue Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations, with mental well-being as one of our three priority areas. For example, Special Hearts Farm and Easterseals Northeast Central Florida in 2024.
• Additionally, Florida Blue is leveraging the power of sports to break down stigmas and promote mental health awareness through partnerships with the Tampa Bay Lightning, Miami HEAT, and Inter Miami CF. From Strike the Stigma symposiums to mindfulness sanctuaries and community soccer events, we're working to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for all Floridians to prioritize their mental health.