New research published on December 13, 2025, has found that children who returned to in-person learning during the COVID-19 pandemic experienced significantly fewer mental health diagnoses compared to their peers who continued with remote learning. The study revealed notable declines in diagnoses of anxiety, depression, and ADHD among children attending school in person. These findings highlight the positive role that face-to-face schooling played in improving children’s psychological well-being after a period of isolation and uncertainty.
Experts suggest that increased social interaction, structured daily routines, and access to on-site support services were key factors in fostering improved mental health outcomes for students. The return to in-person education allowed children to resume critical face-to-face connections with their peers and teachers, which may have been particularly important during a time when social isolation was prevalent. Additionally, the structured environment of a physical classroom likely provided stability and routine, elements that are essential for mental health, especially in children.
The research adds to a growing body of evidence regarding the impact of pandemic-era schooling models on youth development and well-being. While remote learning provided necessary safety measures during the height of the pandemic, its long-term effects on mental health have been a topic of concern for educators, parents, and policymakers. This latest study suggests that the return to in-person schooling has been beneficial for many children, reducing the psychological toll associated with isolation and disrupted routines.
At the same time, ongoing discussions among policymakers and educators focus on understanding the long-term impacts of various schooling models on students. While in-person schooling has shown benefits for mental health, there is still much to learn about how to best support children in different learning environments moving forward.
In a separate but related development, additional research highlighted in the same reports points to the potential benefits of GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic, for neurological health beyond their use in diabetes management. This emerging field of study suggests that treatments traditionally used for metabolic conditions may have far-reaching implications for brain health, opening up new possibilities for addressing neurological disorders.
As the research continues to evolve, it underscores the complex and interconnected nature of child health, education, and medical treatments. For now, the findings related to in-person schooling provide a hopeful outlook for improving children’s mental health in the wake of the pandemic, reinforcing the importance of structured environments, social connections, and timely interventions.
