Story perspectives

Half of Students' Mental Health Deteriorates This Summer

6/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

McLean Hospital reported that half of surveyed students experienced worsened mental health over the summer, prompting warnings to parents in Traverse City.
The survey linked the decline to a loss of routine, which increased screen time, boredom, and disrupted sleep.
Experts advise flexible schedules, family activities, regular conversations, weekly check-ins, and summer jobs or volunteer work, as recommended by Dan McMinn, executive director of Great Lakes Learning Academy.

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Story summary

McLean Hospital reported that half of surveyed students experienced worsened mental health over the summer, prompting warnings to parents in Traverse City.
The survey linked the decline to a loss of routine, which increased screen time, boredom, and disrupted sleep.
Experts advise flexible schedules, family activities, regular conversations, weekly check-ins, and summer jobs or volunteer work, as recommended by Dan McMinn, executive director of Great Lakes Learning Academy.