A new national report card has highlighted both the strengths and ongoing challenges in Michigan’s school mental health system. Despite a significant budget threat of $150 million last year, the state has made notable strides in staffing mental health professionals in schools, according to the report released by Inseparable, a mental health policy organization, as part of its Hopeful Futures Campaign.
The report shows that Michigan has achieved 36% of the recommended number of psychologists, nearly 60% of the target for counselors, and just over 40% of the recommended social workers. While these numbers demonstrate progress, the report also emphasizes that critical gaps remain in areas like staff training and early mental health screenings.
Caitlin Hochul, Vice President of Public Policy for Inseparable, explained the importance of early intervention. “When you catch a condition early, and you get the treatment you need, you’re more likely to succeed academically and later in the workforce,” Hochul said. “Early treatment leads to better outcomes.”
Despite improvements, the report also identifies missed opportunities in Michigan’s mental health policies. Key measures, such as excused mental health absences and the establishment of a school-linked mental health services program, have not yet been enacted. These policies are viewed as crucial for further supporting students’ well-being and academic success.
One of the report’s brighter points was Michigan’s progress in improving the social worker-to-student ratio. The state has reduced the ratio from one social worker per 2,300 students to one per 600, a significant improvement that aims to provide more personalized support for students in need.
Lynn Maye, a licensed social worker with over 20 years of experience in Detroit schools, attributed the state’s success to proper training and professional development. “The Michigan Association of School Social Workers ensures that training and educational resources are available for mental health professionals, helping them grow and thrive in their roles,” said Maye.
Public support for expanding mental health care remains strong across the U.S. Polls show that 90% of voters, regardless of political affiliation, believe that expanding mental health services should be a priority for elected officials.
While Michigan continues to make progress, the report underscores the need for sustained attention and policy improvements to fully meet the mental health needs of students statewide.
