Addressing Mental Health in Rural Classrooms

Every day, students walk into classrooms carrying more than backpacks—they carry worries, fears, and emotional burdens that often go unseen. As the school year begins, Scotland Health is shining a light on the mental and behavioral health challenges facing students in our community, and how we can work together to support them. 

In August, Scotland Health representatives were honored to attend the annual Mental Health Kickback at the I. Ellis Johnson Community Center. The event brought together educators, families, and health professionals to raise awareness about the mental health needs of school-aged children. Topics ranged from individualized education programs and mental health stigmas to community involvement and education equality. 

Now that school is back in full swing, Scotland Health is committed to continuing this vital conversation.  One of the key voices in this conversation is Mary Neil Thompson, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor with Scotland Family Counseling Center (SFCC).  Mary Neil works with children, adolescents, and adults, helping them navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, bereavement, and behavioral issues. 

 

Common Challenges in the Classroom 

“Some of the most common mental health challenges I see among school-aged children in our community are anxiety, bullying, ADHD, and struggles with fitting in socially,” Mary Neil shared. These issues can affect a student’s ability to focus, participate, and feel safe in school. 
 

Barriers to Care in Rural Communities 

Accessing mental health care in rural schools presents unique challenges. “Transportation is a major barrier,” she explained. “Most providers are outpatient, so getting to appointments can be difficult for families without reliable transportation.” 

SFCC offers telecounseling to help those with transportation barriers.  For those who may be uninsured or underinsured, SFCC fees are determined by a sliding scale based on household income and the number of people in the household. 
 

The Weight of Stigma 

Stigma remains one of the biggest obstacles. “It discourages access to care,” Mary Neil said. “Families may feel ashamed or fear judgment, which keeps them from seeking help.” 
 

Spotting the Signs 

Parents, teachers, and health professionals can work together to identify students in need. “Be aware of symptoms—changes in behavior, mood, or academic performance,” she advised. “Pay close attention to children under 14 who are being kicked out of school or home. These are red flags.” 
 

Successful School-Based Models 

Mary Neil highlighted programs that bring mental health services directly into schools. “Social emotional learning classes, counseling groups, and having mental health providers assigned to one school full-time are effective models,” she said. 
 

Educating Families and Building Trust 

To reduce stigma and educate families, Mary Neil recommends partnering with trusted community institutions. “Ally with churches,” she said. “They’re central to rural life and can help spread awareness and acceptance.” 

Scotland Health is committed to building trust and improving access. “We encourage referrals from primary care practices and work to educate the medical community about the services available,” she added. 
 

A Community Effort 

Mental health is not just a school issue—it’s a community issue. When parents, schools, and health organizations work together, we can break down barriers and build a stronger support system for our children. 

Scotland Health proudly includes mental health services as part of its continuum of care through Scotland Family Counseling Center, our community health team, and social workers throughout the system. 

As students settle into the school year, let’s stay alert, stay compassionate, and stay connected. Because every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and seen. 

For more information about services provided by Scotland Family Counseling Center, please visit: Scotland Family Counseling Center