Training teachers to support students' mental health in schools

This trial is testing a program called Tealeaf that trains elementary and middle school teachers to support students' mental health using simple, evidence-based techniques woven into their everyday teaching. The program was created in India and is being piloted in North Carolina schools to see if teachers can help close the gap between students who need mental health support and those who can actually access it. Researchers will compare two versions: one with intensive training and ongoing coaching for teachers, and one with less training and support.

Right now, one in five children struggle with mental health issues like anxiety and depression, but most never get help because there simply aren't enough mental health professionals. The COVID-19 pandemic made this crisis worse. This trial tests whether training teachers—who already spend all day with students—to deliver mental health support could be a faster, more sustainable solution than waiting for more therapists and counselors to become available.