Students missing school is an issue that affects school districts all over.
Many associate the trend with ill-tempered children, or just bad choices; however, the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health says there is more to it than that.
In a recent report, the group noted that poor mental health can be both a cause and an effect of absenteeism.
Some may avoid going to a specific class or school altogether due to bullying, anxiety, or simply feeling overwhelmed.
While that may cause short-term relief, each absence increases the amount of work missed and can further isolate the child, which often exacerbates their anxiety.
Addressing these issues is vitally important for the development of a child.
Linda Hall, the OCMH Director, stated, “Supportive responses that work to identify reasons behind school absence and problem solve with the family are more effective than punitive responses.”
More information on the link between school attendance and mental health can be found on the Office of Children’s Mental Health Fact Sheet, which can be found at Children.WI.gov.
