Danvers High School is facing significant challenges regarding student well-being, as revealed in a recent report presented at the Danvers School Committee meeting on February 10, 2025. The findings highlight alarming trends in sleep deprivation, mental health issues, and experiences of bullying among students.

The report indicates that over 35% of Danvers High School students are getting less than six hours of sleep on average school nights, with 5% reporting less than four hours. This lack of sleep is linked to increased screen time, particularly from devices that emit blue light, which disrupts melatonin production and hinders sleep quality. School social workers are actively addressing these concerns, encouraging students to charge their devices outside their bedrooms to promote healthier sleep habits.

Food insecurity is another pressing issue, with 2% of students reporting they went hungry in the past month due to a lack of food at home. This translates to approximately 14 students experiencing hunger each night, underscoring the need for community support and resources.

The report also sheds light on the emotional climate at Danvers High School. While 48% of students feel connected to their school, this figure drops significantly among students of color and those identifying as LGBTQ+. Specifically, only 25% of Black students and 28% of LGBTQ+ students reported feeling connected, indicating a disparity that needs to be addressed.

Bullying remains a critical concern, with 16% of students reporting being bullied on school property and 18% experiencing electronic bullying. The rates are notably higher among LGBTQ+ students, with 37% reporting bullying on school grounds. Additionally, 27% of students reported feeling overwhelmed by stress, and 24% experienced symptoms of depression in the past year.

The report also highlights concerning statistics regarding suicidal thoughts and self-harm. Thirteen percent of students considered suicide in the past year, with rates significantly higher among LGBTQ+ students at 38%. Furthermore, 16% of students reported engaging in non-suicidal self-harm, with rates among LGBTQ+ students reaching 50%.

Despite these challenges, the report notes that Danvers High School's depression rates are lower than the state average, with 24% of students reporting depressive symptoms compared to 34% statewide. This suggests that while there are significant issues to address, there are also positive aspects to build upon.

The findings from this report call for immediate action from school officials and the community to enhance support systems for students, particularly those from marginalized groups. As the school committee considers these results, the focus will be on implementing strategies to improve student mental health, foster inclusivity, and ensure that all students feel safe and connected within their school environment.