Mental health matters, and schools are where we can make the biggest difference.
Across the UK, recent data shows that 1 in 5 children aged 8–16 are likely to have a
mental health disorder (NHS Digital, 2023). That’s a significant number of young people
navigating stress, anxiety, or depression while also managing school, friendships, and
life at home.

In the UAE, the situation is similar. A study of 3,745 students found that 40.6% were at
risk for PTSD, 23.3% showed symptoms of anxiety, and 17.1% reported depressive
symptoms (AlBlooshi, AlAli, & AlMarzooqi, 2024). Nearly half of students could be
struggling with mental health challenges, sometimes quietly and without support.
These statistics are a wake-up call. Schools are not just places for academics; they are
front-line spaces where emotional well-being can be nurtured.

Why Schools Play a Key Role

Children spend a large part of their lives at school. Teachers see them every day,
classmates shape their social experiences, and the school environment can either
support or hinder mental health. Early detection of stress or anxiety can make a huge
difference, yet many children don’t receive help until problems become serious.

This is where digital tools like Calmcloud can make an impact. By offering regular
check-ins, mood tracking, stress management exercises, and mindfulness activities,
Calmcloud gives students the tools to develop healthy coping strategies before
challenges escalate.

Small Steps Can Make a Big Difference
Supporting mental health doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Schools can start with
simple, practical steps:

•  Create safe spaces: Encourage open conversations about feelings and
  normalise asking for help.
•  Teach emotional literacy: Help children understand and manage their
  emotions, not just academic subjects.
•  Connect families and educators: Regular communication between home and
  school ensures no child falls through the cracks.
• Use digital tools effectively: Platforms like Calmcloud offer daily check-ins,
  progress tracking, and accessible support, helping students feel heard and
  supported.

Why It Matters
Every statistic represents a real child. Every child that is struggling to cope deserves
understanding, support, and tools to thrive. Investing in mental health in schools
doesn’t just prevent crises – it builds resilience, confidence, and brighter futures.
With rising numbers of children experiencing mental health challenges in both the UK
and UAE, it’s clear that supporting emotional well-being should be just as important as
supporting academic achievement. Tools like Calmcloud make this easier, helping
schools, teachers, and parents provide the mental health support children need every
day.

References
• NHS Digital. (2023). Mental health of children and young people in England, 2023
— wave 4 follow-up to the 2017 survey. Retrieved from
https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/mental
health-of-children-and-young-people-in-england/2023-wave-4-follow-up/part-1
mental-health

• AlBlooshi, S., AlAli, N., & AlMarzooqi, S. (2024). Prevalence and factors
associated with mental illness symptoms among school students post lockdown
of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Arab Emirates. Retrieved from
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38300941/