Why student voice matters: shaping mental health in schools together
This blog post was co-developed with Ayomide Amole, a member of the ThriveSMH student group, and draws on insights from her speech at the Spring 2026 Provincial Leadership Meeting.
Have you ever felt like who you are matters less than what you achieve?
For many students, that feeling is real. It can seem like your worth is measured by grades, athletic performance or social status—like who you are matters less than what you achieve. You might even find yourself wondering, “Am I enough… even if I’m not the best at something?”
When students begin to feel this way, something important shifts. It’s not just confidence that fades – engagement does too. Students stop raising their hands. They stop sharing ideas. They show up physically, but not mentally or emotionally.
But here’s the powerful truth: the opposite is also true. When students feel seen, heard and valued for who they are, everything changes. They engage. They participate. They connect. They take ownership of their learning. Because real engagement doesn’t come from pressure – it comes from connection.
Connection matters more than ever
Today, connection can feel complicated. Many teens spend more time on screens than with each other. And it’s not just about how we’re connecting; it’s about what those connections feel like. Even though we may be more “connected” than ever, many students still feel alone.
That’s why schools matter so much as spaces for real, human connection. When students feel valued, not just for what they can do, but for who they are, they begin to open up, build trust, form meaningful relationships and create bridges instead of walls. When students feel like they belong, they don’t just feel better – they learn better too.
Student voice is more than just being heard
When schools think about improving mental health, one thing matters most: student voice. But student voice isn’t just about listening; it’s about involving. It’s more than surveys or occasional feedback forms. It’s about bringing students into the process early and authentically.
Don’t just ask students what they think. Co-create with them! Involve students in conversations from the beginning and let them help shape decisions and solutions. Because students aren’t just part of the system, we experience it every single day. As long as adults are willing to listen, students are ready to speak.
What success really looks like
Success in schools isn’t just about higher grades or better test scores. Real success looks like a student walking into school and feeling calm, not judged. It means knowing you matter, even on your worst day. It looks like being able to be yourself without fear and experiencing real connection in classrooms and hallways.
Schools are on the right path when students feel safe speaking up, ask for help without fear and engage because they want to, not because they have to. At the heart of it all is one powerful feeling: belonging.
These reflections come from Ayomide’s speech on student well-being, belonging and student voice.
What students across Ontario are saying: #HearNowON 2024
The #HearNowON 2024 project brought together student voices from grades 7 to 12 across Ontario, and the message is clear: students want to be part of shaping mental health in their schools. Students weren’t just participants; they were partners. The #HearNowON Student Working Group helped shape focus group discussions, design survey questions, identify and analyze key themes and describe/visualize the findings.
Key takeaways
Mental health should be part of learning
Students want mental health to be embedded into everyday learning, not just occasional events. They are asking for regular conversations in school and opportunities to learn strategies to support their mental health, better understand different types of mental health problems, and know where and how to access support. They don’t just want awareness—they want practical tools.
Support and mental health learning should extend beyond school
Students highlighted the value of strong, positive communication with parents and caregivers, alongside greater understanding of mental health. Many noted that building mental health literacy, reducing stigma and creating space for open, supportive conversations can make a meaningful difference, especially when parents and caregivers are attuned to when and how young people want support.
Students want to lead but need opportunities
Students are interested in mental health leadership, and many are eager to get involved. This highlights an opportunity to better align available options with what young people find meaningful and engaging.
Identity matters
Students emphasized that identity plays a major role in mental health. They want to feel accepted and valued for who they are, learn about others’ experiences and be in spaces that are safe and respectful. These conditions help build a stronger sense of belonging.
Trusted adults make a difference
Many students said they have at least one trusted adult at school. A teacher, counsellor or coach can make a significant difference. Sometimes, one supportive relationship can change everything.
For more, read the #HearNowON 2024 report.
What students are asking for
Through groups like ThriveSMH, Pros’pairs SMS and initiatives like #HearNowON, students are clear: they want action, not just ideas. They are calling for more inclusive spaces, more opportunities to connect and calmer, more supportive school environments. Most importantly, they want to be seen as partners, not just participants.
How you can take action
Mental health affects everyone, and every voice matters. You can get involved by joining or starting a mental health club, talking to a teacher or counsellor about your ideas, sharing your perspective in surveys or discussions, and supporting your friends by checking in with them. For more ideas, check out Your role in school mental health.
Final thoughts
When students and adults work together, we don’t just improve schools—we build stronger, more connected communities. When students feel heard, they speak. When they feel valued, they engage. When they feel like they belong, they thrive. Your voice matters, and together, we can shape schools where everyone feels seen, supported and strong.