Mental Illness and School Dropout: What to Know About Academic Pressure for Teens
At The Family Center in Ellicott City, we’ve seen firsthand how academic pressure and the need for high achievements can affect students and families. Research shows that mental health challenges—especially depression and anxiety—are significant risk factors for school dropout.
Among students who do not complete high school, over 20% are contributed to mental health, with mood disorders being the most common. Older teens living with depression are twice as likely to drop out of high school compared to their peers without depression.
The transition to college brings its own set of challenges for teens. About one in three first-year college students report having experienced mental health disorders before starting college, highlighting the ongoing need for support.
If you notice signs that your teen is considering dropping out, it may be time to seek outside support. At The Family Center, we specialize in connecting families with their teenagers to tackle mood disorders that may be affecting their academic careers. Learn the signs and what to do next.
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Understanding the Connection: Mental Health and School Dropout Rates
The Weight of Academic Pressure
Academic pressure is an ongoing concern in both high school and college for teenagers. Students report overwhelming workloads, high expectations from parents and teachers, and a culture that often equates self-worth with academic achievement. This can be especially true in high-performing areas such as Ellicott City and Howard County school systems.
This academic pressure on teens can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and even depression, all of which can negatively impact academic performance and increase the risk of dropping out. When students feel they are not performing their best, falling behind, or unable to secure their future, it can worsen symptoms of mental illness and lead to a defeated attitude.
45% of high school students admit to being stressed almost every day.
Girls, women, and gender non-conforming students report the highest levels of academic pressure and worry about meeting expectations. However, male students also struggle with academic performance and expectations on their grades, extracurriculars, sports performance, and more.
Students are not just asked to attend school, complete assignments, and work towards high grades: expectations now include extra activities like student council or band, are encouraged to take on a sport, and strive for AP classes to get a leg up in college applications.
Whether the pressure is internal, from school, social messaging, or even parental direction, it can feel overwhelming and stifling. Many teenagers want to meet the expectations of their parents and feel they have secured a strong future for themselves, which can be difficult when a lot of messaging asks for above-and-beyond performance.
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How Family Therapy Can Help Teen Drop Out Rates
At The Family Center, we believe that family involvement is crucial in supporting students through academic and mental health challenges. Family therapy offers a safe space for open communication, education, and collaborative problem-solving. With the right approach, it can involve the school, teachers, coaches, and more to help a student feel supported without feeling overwhelmed.
1. Facilitate Honest Conversations
We guide parents in initiating open, non-judgmental discussions about mental health and academic stress. Learn how to have the hard conversations with your teenager about expectations, their feelings, and negative thoughts.
Our teen therapists teach families how to recognize signs of mental distress, such as withdrawal, changes in mood, or declining academic performance. We also guide families through talking about these challenges in a way that is safe and supportive.
2. Building Coping and Resilience Skills
Through diagnostics and assessments, we help students and parents develop practical coping strategies for managing stress and anxiety. We focus on strengthening family bonds, improving communication, and fostering a supportive home environment.
Diagnostics and assessments can also help students and teens understand how they learn, how to handle challenges, and how to implement resources to feel more comfortable during stressful academic settings.
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3. Collaborating with Schools
Our team often works with school counselors and teachers to ensure a coordinated approach to each student’s well-being. We advocate for reasonable academic accommodations when needed, providing school-approved diagnostic assessments.
This community-centered approach gives students stability at home and in the classroom. When every adult is on the same page, the teenager can have consistent messaging about performance and how to move forward with confidence.
4. Empowering Parents
We educate parents about the impact of academic pressure and how to set realistic expectations. Parents learn to support their children’s mental health without adding to their stress, encouraging balance and self-care.
It can be difficult for parents to talk about academic success without adding more pressure. Open conversations about expectations will help reveal a supportive parent who doesn’t add more stress. Teenagers can learn to converse with the adults in their lives about what goals they should be meeting.
Talk to a Family Therapist in Maryland Today
Educational pressure is a reality for today’s students, but families do not have to face it alone. At The Family Center, we are committed to helping families in Ellicott City and beyond foster resilience, open communication, and mental wellness—so every student has the support they need to thrive.
In the Howard County school system, where academic pressure is high, students are facing the possibility of dropping out or developing a mental illness at greater rates. Stay ahead of the stress and be a pillar of support for the teenager in your life.
Call Now: (410) 531-5087
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my child is struggling with mental health issues related to school?
Look for signs such as persistent sadness, irritability, withdrawal from friends or activities, changes in sleep or eating habits, and sudden drops in academic performance. If these signs persist, it may be time to seek professional support.
What should I do if my teen talks about wanting to drop out?
Stay calm and listen without judgment. Express your concern and willingness to help. Schedule a family therapy session to explore underlying issues and develop a plan together.
How does family therapy differ from individual therapy?
Family therapy involves the whole family unit, focusing on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and supporting each member’s well-being.
Can family therapy help if my child is already in college?
Absolutely. Family therapy can support college students and their families in navigating new stressors, maintaining healthy boundaries, and staying connected during periods of transition.