Why Creative, Impactful Wellness spaces: Matter in Schools

Young people face more challenges today than ever before. The lasting effects of Covid-19, the pressures of social media comparisons, academic demands, and the complexities of family and identity all weigh heavily on their mental health. These formative years shape their futures, and if mental health struggles go unaddressed, the consequences can last a lifetime.

Having worked in education for over two decades, I have seen the growing need for mental health support among students. Yet, many barriers prevent young people from accessing the help they need. Stigma around counselling, long waiting lists, and financial constraints are just a few obstacles. Schools, where young people spend a large part of their day, have a unique opportunity to change this by adopting creative, accessible approaches to wellness and mental health support.

A welcoming school wellness space designed to support student mental health

Understanding Students’ Mental Health Needs in 2025

To create effective wellness spaces, schools must first understand the mental health needs of their students today. The challenges young people face have evolved rapidly, especially after the pandemic. Anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation have increased, while traditional counselling services struggle to keep up with demand.

Schools can start by gathering honest feedback from students and teachers about mental health challenges and what support feels most helpful. This can be done through surveys, focus groups, or informal conversations. Listening to students’ voices helps schools tailor their wellness programs to real needs rather than assumptions.

For example, some students may prefer group activities that build connection and resilience, while others might benefit from quiet spaces for reflection or creative expression. Understanding these preferences allows schools to design wellness spaces that feel welcoming and relevant.

Breaking Down Barriers to Access

Many young people avoid seeking help because of self-stigma—the internalised shame or fear about needing support. Research shows this is a major reason students do not access counselling. Schools can reduce this barrier by normalising mental health conversations and making support feel like a natural part of school life.

Creative wellness spaces can help by offering informal, non-clinical environments where students feel safe and accepted. These spaces might include:

• Art or music rooms where students express emotions through creativity

• Mindfulness corners with calming tools and guided exercises

• Peer support hubs where trained students offer listening and encouragement

  
  

By embedding these options into daily school routines, mental health support becomes less intimidating and more accessible.

Involving Teachers and Staff in Wellness Initiatives

Teachers spend hours with students and often notice early signs of mental health struggles. Students have built strong relationships with teachers and TA's so training staff to recognise these signs and respond with empathy is crucial. Schools can also involve teachers and students. They have a wealth of knowledge, techniques and ideas that could be used to creative a timetable of ideas for wellness.

For example, a teacher-led mindfulness session or a creative writing group can complement professional counselling services. When teachers and students collaborate on wellness efforts, it builds a stronger community of support.

Examples of Creative Wellness Spaces in Schools

Several schools have successfully introduced innovative wellness spaces that make a real difference:

• The Calm Room: A quiet, softly lit room with comfortable seating, sensory tools, and nature sounds where students can take breaks during stressful days. With mindfulness sessions that can run throughout the day, lunchtime and afterschool. Examples of sessions: Stress and Anxiety in exams, Bullying: how do I cope, Overload how do I prioritise etc

• Creative Expression Studio: A space stocked with art supplies, musical instruments, and writing materials where students explore emotions through creativity.

• Peer Support Lounge: A welcoming area staffed by trained student volunteers who provide informal listening and guidance.

  
  

These spaces are designed to be flexible, inviting, and integrated into the school day, encouraging students to use them without fear of judgment.

Art supplies in a school creative wellness room encouraging emotional expression

Policy Changes to Support Mental Health in Schools

Creating impactful wellness spaces requires more than just physical rooms. Schools need policies that prioritize mental health and wellness as part of their core mission. This includes:

• Allocating budget for wellness resources and staff training

• Reducing stigma through school-wide mental health awareness campaigns

• Building partnerships with local mental health organizations for additional support

• Ensuring timely access to professional counselling when needed

  
  

Policy changes signal to students and staff that mental health is valued and supported at every level.

The Role of Technology and Innovation

Technology can also play a role in making mental health support more accessible. Apps for mindfulness, mood tracking, or virtual counselling can complement in-person services. Schools might offer digital wellness resources that students can use privately, reducing the fear of stigma.

However, technology should not replace human connection. It works best as part of a broader, creative approach that includes face-to-face support and welcoming wellness spaces.

Moving Forward: A Call to Action for educational settings

Supporting young people’s mental health requires commitment and creativity. Schools have a vital role in creating environments where students feel safe, heard, and supported. By listening to students, breaking down barriers, involving staff, and adopting innovative wellness spaces, schools can make a lasting impact.

The future of mental health support in education depends on these changes. Every young person deserves access to care that respects their needs and helps them thrive. Schools can lead the way by making wellness a visible, valued part of daily life.

Erin

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