ABSTRACT
This chapter delves into the profound impact of educational institutions on individuals’ health. Drawing from epidemiological insights and epigenetic research, it elucidates how chronic stressors, exacerbated by social determinants of health, contribute to the development of conditions like obesity, depression, and hypertension. Moreover, this chapter highlights the psychological barriers, including stigma and discrimination, that hinder access to care and exacerbate health disparities. By exploring the nexus between chronic diseases and civic engagement, the chapter underscores how poor health outcomes impede democratic participation, perpetuating cycles of inequity. The chapter culminates in actionable recommendations for public school stakeholders to foster destigmatizing environments, promote access to healthcare careers, and implement policies addressing social determinants of health. Ultimately, it advocates for transformative interventions to mitigate the burden of stress-related disorders and advance health equity in educational settings.
