Student mental health has become a growing concern, with more young people reporting stress, anxiety, and depression. With schools already screening for vision and hearing, many argue that it makes sense to extend the same approach to mental health, which is just as important to student success. Some believe schools should regularly screen students for mental health concerns to identify issues early and connect them with support. Supporters argue that screenings can improve well-being, reduce stigma, and even prevent crises. Opponents raise concerns about privacy, mislabeling, and whether schools have the resources to follow up. The question remains whether regular mental health screenings should become part of the school day.

Supporters of schools regularly screening students argue that it can help detect problems such as anxiety, depression, or stress before they become severe. They believe early detection will allow for preventive measures instead of waiting until crises arise. Those identified as struggling can be referred to counselors, therapists, or outside professionals. Supporters also suggest that screening students reduces stigma, making mental health a regular conversation and increasing the likelihood that students will seek help voluntarily when they know it is standard practice.

Opponents of regular mental health screenings raise concerns about privacy and the collection of sensitive personal information that families may prefer to keep private. They argue that students can feel uncomfortable or unsafe discussing their mental health struggles with school staff. Furthermore, they argue many schools already face shortages of counselors, social workers, and psychologists, and identifying issues without the resources to address them may overwhelm schools and frustrate families. Additionally, while screenings may be intended to reduce stigma, opponents warn that being flagged could create embarrassment or unintended labeling. Opponents believe students may be treated differently by their peers or staff if others know about their results.

So, what do you think? Should Schools Screen Students Regularly for Mental Health Concerns? Students can answer, “Yes, they should;” “No, they should not;” or a nuanced answer in between! Be sure to submit your responses by October 9 to be considered for this week’s contest.

 

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Note: Ideal Think the Vote responses include the following:      

• Address the question asked in a thoughtful and meaningful manner     
• Use cited facts and constitutional arguments when appropriate to support their answers      
• Are expressed in cohesive sentences and are free of distracting spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors      
• They address counterarguments and opposing concerns in a respectful manner      
• They organize their answer in a manner that flows logically and reads clearly   

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JOIN THE DEBATE BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $1,000 CASH SCHOLARSHIP! 

For this question, BRI will be giving away two $25 gift cards, one to each person providing the best defense of each side of the debate. Both students will also win BRI swag. Each student winner will also be entered for a chance to win a grand prize of a $1,000 cash scholarship. Additionally, the referring teachers for both students will each win a $25 gift card and BRI swag. 

This question will run from 9/25/25 to 10/9/25, so be sure to submit your answers in time to be considered for our prizes!