Georgia expands school-based mental health services as youth mental health concerns persist
Written by GCDD on .
August 5, 2026 - (WJBF Augusta) — ATLANTA (WJBF) – As students return to the classroom, Georgia leaders are expanding access to school-based mental health care as more young people continue to struggle with anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts.
State officials say the need for mental health services remains high, prompting continued investment in the Georgia Apex Program, which places licensed mental health professionals inside public schools to help students receive care before they reach a crisis.
The program partners schools with community mental health providers, allowing students from kindergarten through 12th grade to receive counseling during the school day without leaving campus. State leaders say removing barriers like transportation makes it easier for families to access care while reducing crisis-related emergency room visits.
"We like to say we meet people where they are," said Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Commissioner Kevin Tanner. "A lot of these young people may not have access or not have the ability to receive services outside the school building."
Health officials say early intervention can have a lasting impact on a child's future. Research has found strong links between depression, anxiety and substance use among adolescents, with early substance use increasing the risk of addiction later in life.
Parents are encouraged to watch for warning signs such as changes in mood, sleep patterns, social withdrawal or behavior and to start conversations with their children if they notice something isn't right. Families can also contact their local school district to find out whether school-based mental health services are available.
The latest figures from the National Alliance on Mental Illness show one in six children between the ages of 6 and 17 experiences a mental health disorder. In Georgia, more than 150,000 adolescents have experienced a major depressive episode, and more than 100,000 have reported serious thoughts of suicide.
A separate UnitedHealthcare report found that seven in 10 college students experienced a mental or behavioral health challenge over the past year, including anxiety, eating disorders, substance misuse and suicidal ideation.
Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can call or text 988 at any time to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, where trained counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.