In recent years, there has been a focus on the importance of mental health and wellbeing for students and educators across the globe. This shift has illuminated the complex interconnections between mental health, student performance, learning experiences, and educational outcomes and given rise to myriad EdTech solutions.

The statistics paint a stark picture:

• Globally, more than 13% (10-19 years old) experience mental disorders, with anxiety and depression accounting for nearly half of all mental disorders.
• In the U.S. alone, one in five students faces mental health challenges. A recent study revealed that anxiety is the third most common reason for student absences after physical illness and weather-related issues.
• In higher education, the demand for mental health services has been rising for more than a decade, according to the American Council on Education.

The workforce is not immune either. Burnout and stress are increasingly prevalent, prompting organizations to prioritize employee well-being to attract and retain talent. Educators, especially in the K-12 sector, are among the most affected populations, with ongoing strikes and staff shortages further exacerbating the issue.

In response, many countries are channeling funding towards mental health and wellbeing programs, especially in K-12 schools. This has fueled the growth of diverse B2B and B2C EdTech solutions that support both students and educators:

• Learn: Resources and training programs for enhancing social-emotional learning and mental health awareness. This includes integrating mental health education into school curriculums and utilizing apps, digital platforms, and interactive games to make learning engaging and accessible.
• Measure: Analytics and monitoring systems that collect real-time student feedback on their emotional states, providing valuable data for schools to create supportive learning environments. This often involves platforms that facilitate student feedback and communication
• Connect: Platforms that facilitate access to counselors, therapists, and other support services, including teletherapy options for increased accessibility.
• Engage: Interactive tools and programs that encourage positive communication, feedback, and problem-solving skills. This can involve constructive platforms for students to address concerns and build resilience.

These four core functions – Learn, Measure, Connect, and Engage – represent the building blocks of effective EdTech solutions in this space. Expect governments to continue implementing policy and funding these initiatives. This ongoing focus presents significant opportunities for EdTech providers to develop innovative solutions that support the mental well-being of students and educators alike.