Psychological health is a growing concern among parents of teenagers. While homeschooling isn’t a solution to every emotional wellness challenge students face, it’s a life-changing option for some kids who are struggling in a traditional school environment.

With limited research on homeschooling, it’s hard to answer the question, “Is homeschooling better for mental health?” But there are some clear benefits to this type of alternative education that may contribute to increased emotional well-being.

Homeschooling and Mental Health

These are just a few of the ways homeschooling may positively impact emotional health.

Reduction of Bullying and Peer Pressure

Unfortunately, bullying and peer pressure are an inevitable part of adolescence, but they are especially prevalent in the traditional school setting. While homeschooling won’t stop bullying and peer pressure, it can drastically reduce it by allowing parents to control their children’s learning environment and limit interaction with bullies and peers who impose negative pressure.

Emphasis on Individuality and Personalized Learning

Homeschoolers can also work at their own pace and in a place that’s comfortable for them. If a parent knows that their child is a hands-on learner, they can incorporate lots of activities into their education that may not be feasible in a large classroom setting. Similarly, students can complete their work when and where it's best for them—whether that’s at home, from the backseat of the car, or from a picnic table at a campground. 

Customization of Curriculum and Goals

Traditionally schooled students have to follow the curriculum and goals prescribed by their district. However, families who choose to homeschool can create their own curriculum and set their own goals based on their children’s interests and personalities.

While there is relatively little research about the impact of homeschooling on neurodivergent students, some studies reveal that kids with ADHD report feeling less stressed in a homeschool environment versus a traditional school environment. Because parents can customize curriculum and goals, they can build upon their child’s strengths.

Additional Time With Family and Loved Ones

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Rossana Snee wrote in an article for LifeHack that “...spending time with their family helps shape (children) into good, responsible adults, improve their mental health, and develop strong core values.”

It’s no secret that students who attend traditional school spend the day away from their families. While they may be around friends and teachers, family time is often limited to the hectic minutes before school and a few hours in the evening. Homeschooling is often conducted by a parent, and homeschoolers spend significantly more time at home with their parents than traditionally schooled students.

More Flexibility With Schedules and Sleep

While the average start time for public high schools in the U.S. is 8 a.m., several states average start times before 7:45 a.m. With early start times, extracurricular activities, homework, and part-time jobs, it’s no wonder 77% of teens do not get enough sleep, according to the CDC. Research shows that less sleep correlates with higher levels of depression in teens, and multiple studies have demonstrated that severe sleep deprivation is linked to suicidal ideation, per the Child Mind Institute. 

While homeschool students often have busy schedules, they have more flexibility with their days, including when they wake up and go to bed.

The American Academy can be used as an all-in-one homeschooling program or to supplement other curricula. Learn more about homeschooling, the benefits of online school for anxiety, and The American Academy on our blog.

We’ve also developed some tips for establishing a successful homeschool schedule because our program is most often used as an online homeschool program for high school students.