Impact of a School-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program on Student Mental Health and Academic Outcomes: Findings from a Randomized Controlled Trial
This study took place in a large urban school district located in the Midwest. The district serves nearly 50,000 students across over one hundred schools. Its student population is diverse, with a majority identifying as African American and a significant proportion as Hispanic/Latinx, alongside several other racial and ethnic groups. Many students in the district face economic challenges, with a substantial percentage qualifying for federal assistance programs, such as free or reduced-price lunch. The district also supports students experiencing homelessness, those receiving special education services, and English Language Learners. Staffing reflects the community's diversity, with most employees being women and a wide range of racial and ethnic backgrounds represented among faculty and staff.
The project began with a pilot during the 2022–23 school year, followed by two years of implementation in 2023–24 and 2024–25. This study examines the impact of TRAILS-EI on students' social, emotional, and behavioral health, with a particular focus on changes in symptoms of depression and anxiety. Additionally, it investigates how TRAILS-EI influences students' educational outcomes, primarily assessing any effects on their current year GPA.
