KINGSTON, Jamaica — As the new school year begins, Bellevue Hospital is calling for mental health to be treated as a national priority alongside academic achievement.

In a statement on Monday, the hospital said that while exam results and grades often dominate September discussions, the psychological well-being of students must not be overlooked.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in seven adolescents globally experiences a mental disorder, with anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges being most common. Left untreated, these conditions can hinder learning, social growth, and long-term development.

“Every September, we talk about exam results, grades, and performance. But without good mental health, none of that is sustainable,” said Dr Marlon Simpson, Clinical Psychologist at Bellevue Hospital. “Mental health is critical for children’s success. It’s normal for students to feel nervous about exams, but with encouragement and support from parents and teachers, they are far better prepared to thrive.”

The hospital is urging parents and educators to act early by establishing routines, creating safe spaces for conversations, and paying attention to warning signs such as mood shifts, declining grades, or absenteeism.

“If children’s stress or anxiety is ignored, it can progressively get worse,” Dr Simpson cautioned. “It may show up as physical illness, bullying, refusal to do assignments, or withdrawal from peers. These issues, if left unaddressed, only create more strain on families. That’s why parents and teachers must pay attention to small changes and investigate what’s triggering them.”

Bellevue also highlighted the need for proper support for children with behavioral conditions such as ADHD and conduct disorder. Without intervention, classrooms can be disrupted and teachers may experience burnout, ultimately impacting the quality of education.

Dr Simpson further advised that parents and teachers must also manage their own stress at the start of the school year.

“Simple steps like spreading out expenses, setting routines, and taking time to rest can make a big difference. Protecting your own mental health ensures you’re in the best position to support children,” he said.

The WHO has found that half of all mental health conditions begin before the age of 18, making early intervention essential. Dr Simpson stressed that Jamaica must break the stigma surrounding mental health by weaving it into the back-to-school conversation.

“If we treat mental health as a national priority, alongside education, we can give children the love, guidance, and support they need,” he said.

Bellevue Hospital is reminding the public that resources are available across the island to address mental health challenges. Anyone concerned about a student’s or their own mental well-being is encouraged to contact their local health department for clinic schedules and support services.