Feeling seen: how school connectedness can protect adolescent mental health

In today’s fast-paced and often isolating world, the mental health of adolescents is under increasing strain with depression and anxiety becoming alarmingly common among young people. While treatment is important, prevention is key. One promising approach is strengthening the emotional bonds students have with their schools. A recent systemic review published in BMC Public Health explores this idea in depth. The study examined 36 research papers to understand how school connectedness can help prevent depression and anxiety in adolescents aged 14 to 24. Understanding school connectedness School connectedness goes far beyond simply enjoying school or achieving good grades. It’s about how students feel, think, and behave in relation to their school environment. This includes feeling supported by teachers and peers, having a sense of belonging and inclusion, and actively engaging in school life. At its core, school connectedness reflects not just academic involvement, but also the emotional and social bonds that tie students to their school community. The review analysed 36 studies — 34 longitudinal and 2 intervention-based—published between 2011 and 2021. These studies involved adolescents aged 14 to 24 across various educational settings and countries, with most data originating from the United States. Key findings: a protective relationship Most of the studies reviewed found a clear and consistent link between feeling connected at school and experiencing fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety. Adolescents who felt supported and included in their school environment were less likely to report emotional struggles like persistent sadness, panic or social withdrawal. Two intervention studies added further weight to these findings. In one, boosting students’ self-esteem led to noticeable improvements in mood. In the other, strengthening relationships within the school community helped reduce depressive symptoms. Together, these results highlight how creating a genuine sense of belonging and support at school can make a meaningful difference in young people’s mental health. Why it matters Depression and anxiety now affect as many as one in four young people, and rates continue to rise. While treatment is essential, prevention is key. Schools—where adolescents spend a large part of their daily lives— offer a unique space to act early. Traditional mental health programs, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, often have limited impact. In contrast, strengthening school connectedness offers a broader and more sustainable approach by enhancing the emotional and social environment for all students, helping them build resilience before issues become more serious. Challenges and considerations While the findings are encouraging, the review also points out several important gaps. Measuring school connectedness is complex, and different studies use different definitions and tools. There’s also a need for more research outside of North America, especially in low- and middle-income countries. And while school connectedness is generally beneficial, it’s not a cure-all. For some students, school can be a source of stress or exclusion. That’s why it’s important to approach this work with sensitivity and a commitment to inclusivity. Conclusion School connectedness is a critical foundation for adolescent mental health. When students feel supported and included, they’re better equipped to handle emotional challenges. But real impact comes from whole-school strategies—policies, staff training, and peer support—that make connection part of the culture. By listening to young people and creating inclusive environments, schools can become spaces of growth, resilience, and healing. Investing in connectedness isn’t optional—it’s essential for protecting the well-being of future generations.