US Teachers Struggle with the Responsibility of Supporting Pupils’ Mental Health
A new study published by the RAND Corporation has found that the responsibility of supporting students’ mental health and well-being increases teachers’ emotional burden. The study, part of the 2026 State of the American Teacher Survey, uses data from a nationally representative sample of 829 public school teachers.
According to the findings, the vast majority of teachers regularly monitor students’ mental health and well-being. They help students develop empathy, build healthy relationships with their peers, and strengthen their social-emotional skills. However, limited access to school counselors and other mental health professionals means that teachers are increasingly taking on additional responsibilities in these areas.
The study found that teachers spend approximately eight hours per week providing support to students. Teachers who provide more support are significantly more likely to report that teaching is emotionally draining. To reduce this burden, the researchers recommend implementing age-appropriate programs, particularly at the secondary school level, that develop students’ communication, collaboration, emotional regulation, and interpersonal skills.