When students are well rested and feel safe, valued, and healthy, they are more likely to succeed academically, socially, and personally. Focusing on student wellbeing is an investment in the long-term success of learners, which ultimately benefits society as a whole (Hill et al., 2024).
Here are eight demonstrable benefits:
1. Better mental health
Prioritizing wellbeing helps students manage stress and anxiety resulting from academic and social pressures. Students who have a strong sense of wellbeing are better at managing setbacks. This builds resilience and is critical for navigating the ups and downs of student life (Alam, 2022; Hossain et al., 2023; Jia et al., 2022).
2. Improved physical health
Wellbeing programs encourage students to adopt healthy habits, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep, that improve physical health and enhance mood, energy levels, and focus.
Addressing student wellbeing can help prevent long-term health problems. Healthy students are less likely to experience frequent illnesses, absenteeism, or chronic health conditions (Ling et al., 2022).
3. Personal development and growth
When students feel well, they have a more positive self-image. This gives them the courage to overcome challenges and pursue their interests. A focus on wellbeing can help students develop essential life skills, such as time management, self-discipline, problem-solving, and interpersonal communication. These skills are essential for academic achievement as well as their future careers and personal lives (Hossain et al., 2023; Jia et al., 2022).
4. Better social skills and relationships
Students who feel good about themselves are more likely to form healthy, supportive relationships with their peers. Social wellbeing promotes teamwork, collaboration, and a sense of belonging. Social skills are essential for forming positive relationships and resolving conflicts throughout life (Hossain et al., 2023; Jia et al., 2022; Ling et al., 2022).
5. Increased engagement, participation, and retention
Students who experience wellbeing are less likely to skip classes or drop out. This may be because they feel more connected to their learning environment and are better able to cope with academic challenges. This participation fosters a sense of community and belonging, which further supports their wellbeing (Alam, 2022; Hossain et al., 2023; Jia et al., 2022; Ling et al., 2022).
6. Improved resilience
Students who learn that wellbeing involves managing stress, maintaining healthy habits, and building resilience are better prepared for the workforce and adult life. Employers increasingly value soft skills like emotional intelligence, communication, and emotional resilience. Students who develop these skills through wellbeing programs are often better positioned for future career success (Alam, 2022; Hossain et al., 2023; Jia et al., 2022).
7. Positive learning environment
When schools prioritize student wellbeing, they create a more supportive, inclusive, and positive learning environment. This, in turn, cultivates a culture of empathy, respect, and mutual support between students and staff. It also reduces behavioral disruption in the classroom (Graham et al., 2016).
8. Improved academic performance
Students who feel well mentally and physically can focus better in class, retain information, and stay motivated to engage actively in learning activities. All the benefits listed above combined improve the comprehension and retention of material, leading to better academic performance (Alam, 2022; Hossain et al., 2023; Jia et al., 2022).