The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) believes that children must be safe and healthy to optimally learn as students. A safe school is free of violence and threats of violence, bullying and harassment, and the sale and use of illicit substances. In addition, a safe school is prepared to respond to emergencies. The AAFP supports efforts to increase school safety including improving school climate and connectedness as well as student mental health. A multi-tiered system of supports enables a systematic approach in a student-centered manner. This system should utilize multi-disciplinary teams for preventive strategies, early identification and evidence-based intervention, and providing or coordinating the provision of intensive supports. A safe learning environment, social emotional learning, and being trauma informed are core preventive strategies that promote self-regulation, empathy, self-esteem, and caring relationships, particularly for students who have had adverse childhood experiences.
Mental health supports should be available for students who need them. Untreated mental health conditions are associated with poor academic performance, misconduct, school drop-out, unemployment, involvement with the juvenile justice system, and violence. For children 10 and older, documented suicide mortality rates significantly increased in the early 21st century, and suicide remains in the top three leading causes of mortality for this age group since that time. Significant disparities and intersectionality are noted when population data is disaggregated based on various biopsychosocial factors, highlighting the need for community-based interventions.
The AAFP supports the CDC’s Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child model and believes that schools should be part of the medical neighborhood. Family Physicians are encouraged to advocate for and collaborate with schools on improving school safety and increasing mental health supports for students.
(Sept 2019 BOD) (April 2025 BOD)