This fact sheet is intended to provide a snapshot of the current issues surrounding dropout factors among students who are identified with emotional disturbance, as well as to provide mental health resources that may assist this population to remain in high school. The statistics presented in this document highlight both the importance of addressing mental health in high schools and the long-term consequences of untreated mental illnesses. Many of the same supports and interventions currently used for dropout prevention--including behavioral support interventions, school connectedness, and personalization strategies--may also address the isolation that students with mental illnesses may feel. Significantly more research is needed to determine how schools can best help students suffering from mental illness, but improving diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders in youth will help improve academic achievement and lessen absenteeism, substance abuse, and behavior problems (Jennings, Pearson, & Harris, 2000). According to the Center for Mental Health Services' Child, Adolescent and Family Branch, some of the basic keys to improving mental health services include eliminating disparities and fostering cultural and linguistic barriers, establishing effective service delivery models, and collaborating with other child and family service agencies. (Contains 1 exhibit.)