George Lucas Educational Foundation
Edutopia

Mental Health

Find compassionate perspectives and evidence-based strategies to foster school environments that promote psychological well-being and support students experiencing behavioral, emotional, or social challenges.

  • The Evolution of a Trauma-Informed School

    Two years after Edutopia filmed trauma-informed practices at a Nashville school, we check in with the principal to see what has changed.
    Alex Shevrin Venet

  • Supporting Students Living in Foster Care

    Many students in foster care have experienced trauma. You may not know who they are, but these ideas will help you support them—and they’re good for all students.
    Rebecca Alber

  • Students Can Now Miss School for a ‘Mental Health Day’

    Driven by high rates of youth suicide and depression, some states are now providing the legal backing for students to take a ‘mental health day.’
    Nora Fleming

  • Making Students Feel Safe

    A trauma-informed approach ensures that students feel safe, supported, and nurtured—to improve their chances of academic success. 

  • When Students Are Traumatized, Teachers Are Too

    Trauma in students’ lives takes an emotional and physical toll on teachers as well. Experts weigh in on the best ways to cope.
    Emelina Minero

  • A Daily Support System for Students

    Students who need extra social and emotional support have a quick check-in with an adult at the start and end of each day.

  • Starting the Day With a Calming Routine

    Exercises that help young students who’ve experienced trauma transition into the school day in a relaxed and ready state.
    Lori Desautels

  • 60-Second Strategy: Snowball Toss

    A quick, fun classroom activity fosters open dialogue while releasing pent-up energy.

  • The How and Why of Trauma-Informed Teaching

    In an extraordinary Twitter chat, educators discuss building trauma-informed social and emotional learning environments.
    Alex Shevrin Venet

  • Creating a Dedicated Space for Reflection

    Providing students with a quiet spot where they can calm themselves in times of stress helps them develop self-regulation.

  • Addressing Persistent Defiance

    Any student may refuse to cooperate at times, but handling students with oppositional defiant disorder requires that teachers have a plan.
    Nina Parrish

  • Supporting Students With Chronic Trauma

    De-escalation strategies can help prevent students’ emotional outbursts, and aid them and their peers in finding calm after one.
    Micere Keels

  • Bringing the Science of Learning Into Classrooms

    Years of research prompt a group of scientists to ask whether we should rethink the way we do school.
    Heather Riley, Youki Terada

  • Teaching With Depression

    A look at some of the common symptoms teachers report—along with strategies and resources that can help.
    Todd Finley

  • Helping High Schoolers Manage Emotions

    De-escalation spaces allow students to leave stressful situations or interactions so they can process their emotions and then return to learning.