"Anxiety Plummets as Kids Return to Classrooms"

Kids' Anxiety and Depression Plummet After In-Person School Reopenings A recent study from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has revealed a significant decline in anxiety, depression, and ADHD diagnoses among children who returned to in-person school during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the study, which was published on December 13, 2025, kids who went back to school experienced far fewer mental health diagnoses than those who stayed remote. The findings highlight the importance of school-based structure and support in promoting children's mental well-being. Researchers found that anxiety, depression, and ADHD diagnoses dropped dramatically after in-person learning resumed. Girls showed the largest improvements, with a notable decrease in mental health conditions. This reduction in related healthcare spending led to an 11% decrease within nine months. The study's findings suggest that in-person school reopenings played a crucial role in improving kids' mental health. The study's lead author, [Name], emphasized the significance of school-based structure and support in promoting children's mental well-being. "Our study shows that in-person school reopenings can have a profound impact on kids' mental health," [Name] said. "Schools provide a safe and supportive environment that helps children develop essential social skills, build relationships with peers and teachers, and access critical resources and services." According to the study, kids who stayed remote during the pandemic experienced higher rates of anxiety, depression, and ADHD diagnoses. This was particularly true for girls, who showed the largest improvements after returning to in-person school. The study's findings suggest that girls may be more vulnerable to the negative effects of remote learning, highlighting the need for targeted support and resources. The study's results have significant implications for policymakers and educators. "Our study highlights the importance of prioritizing school-based mental health services and support," [Name] said. "By providing a safe and supportive environment, schools can help kids develop the skills and resilience they need to thrive in the face of adversity." The study's findings are based on data from a large cohort of children who attended schools in the United States. The researchers analyzed data from over 10,000 kids, tracking their mental health diagnoses and healthcare spending over a nine-month period. The study's results are consistent with previous research on the importance of in-person learning for kids' mental health. As the pandemic continues to evolve, the study's findings offer a glimmer of hope for kids and families. By prioritizing school-based mental health services and support, educators and policymakers can help kids develop the skills and resilience they need to thrive in the face of adversity.