School Mental Health Program

Mains Syllabus: GS II - Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.

Why in the News?

India finds itself at a critical juncture concerning mental health, with the most recent surveys and studies painting a stark picture.

What is the status of mental health issues faced by students?

• National Mental Health Data - Approximately 10.6% of the population has grappled with mental health issues at some point, with 13.7% currently affected as of then, as per National Mental Health Survey 2015-2016.

National Mental Health Survey (NMHS 1) was conducted in 2015-16 in 12 states and preparations for NMHS 2 are underway.

• Mental Health Issues of Children- 27% of children and adolescents experienced depression, 26% had anxiety disorders, 7% exhibited hyperactivity.
• 9%, 19%, and 15% experienced emotional, conduct, and peer problems, respectively.
• Student Suicide Rate – It is standing at alarmingly high rate of 7.6% as per National Crime Record Bureau (2022).
• Increase in Student Suicides - There has been a staggering 32% increase in student suicides from 2017 to 2022.
• Internet Addiction -  A study published in General Psychiatry (2021) found that internet addiction among students in 19 states of India ranges from 19.9% to 40.7%.
• This high prevalence highlights the growing issue of internet dependency among young people in the country.
• Behavioural Addictions – There is excessive use of social media, video games, online pornography, and mobile phones among Indian youth.

What are the impacts of these mental health issues?

• Poor Academic Performance - Difficulty concentrating, decreased motivation, and impaired cognitive function can lead to lower grades, increased stress, and potential academic setbacks.
• Sleep Disturbances – Internet addiction, excessive use of social media and dooms scrolling affect sleeping patterns, cycle and quality of sleep.
• Emotional Dysregulation – These addictions causes can increased reactivity, irritability, and impulsivity, impacting relationships, including family interactions.
• Familial Conflict - Mental health issues can strain relationships with family members, leading to increased tension, arguments, and a breakdown in communication.

What are the challenges in addressing mental health issues?

• Non-recognition - Mental health conditions are often not identified or addressed promptly, leading to prolonged suffering and potential worsening of symptoms.
• Inadequate Health Services - Only 29% of individuals with psychiatric disorders receive treatment, leaving 71% untreated, National Mental Health Survey.
• This gap underscores the mismatch between demand and supply in mental health services.
• Stigma - The stigma associated with mental illness prevents individuals from seeking help due to fear of judgment, discrimination, or social exclusion.
• Lack of awareness - Limited knowledge about mental health conditions, their symptoms, and available treatments hinders early identification and appropriate intervention.
• Insufficient Mental Health Education - Mental health is often treated as a separate issue from general health, leading to a lack of integration into school curricula and discussions.
• This can result in missed opportunities to educate students about mental well-being and provide support.

What are the significances of school mental health programs?

• Vital Role - The World Mental Health Report (2022), WHO, emphasises the vital role of schools in addressing mental health issues through education, supportive environments, and collaboration with health services.
• Promoting Mental Health Awareness - World Health Organization’s Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013–2030, emphasise the pivotal role of schools in promoting mental health awareness and supporting adolescents.
• Promoting Mental Well-Being - School programs can teach students how to manage stress, build resilience, and develop positive coping mechanisms.
• Preventing Mental Illnesses - Early intervention through school programs can help identify and address mental health concerns before they escalate into more serious conditions.
• Reducing Stigma - Mental health programs can educate students, staff, and families about mental health conditions, challenging misconceptions and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help.
• Creating Inclusive Environment - Open discussions and positive messaging can create a more inclusive and supportive school environment.
• Enhancing Community Mental Health- When schools prioritize mental health, they contribute to a healthier community overall.

What are the key strategies in implementation of school mental health program?

• Integrating Mental Health and Education Services - Given India’s vast student population, integrating digital mental health services like the nationwide helpline Tele-MANAS (1-800-891-4416) in educational institutions is essential.
• Establishing an Advisory Board -  A Mental Health Advisory Board (MHAB) comprising trained teachers under institutional leadership can facilitate structured mental health initiatives.
• Mental Health Orientations - Schools can conduct mental health orientations for teachers and students, fostering resilience through workshops and peer support.
• Reducing Exam Pressure - Providing structured psychological support before, during, and after exams can help students manage anxiety and distress.
• Fostering Stress-free Communications - Parents and teachers can adopt such strategies to foster a positive environment, emphasising that education is just one aspect of personal growth and development.
• Awareness Creation - Institutions can promote helplines such as Tele-MANAS and others to ensure students seek timely support.
• Since media plays a vital role, weekly editions of educative, informative and skill-building editorials, along with dedicated sections in local language newspapers can be published.
• Embedding Mental Health Initiatives in Education – It will foster student well-being, resilience and academic success, creating a more inclusive learning environment.
• Capacity Building at Grassroot Level - District mental health teams can train ASHA and Anganwadi workers in illness identification, psychological first aid for children and mothers and referral to advanced mental health services if needed.
• Mental Health Audit - To prioritise mental health in education, mental health audits can be included in the accreditation process of educational institutions from primary to higher education.

What lies ahead?

• To bridge the gaps in mental health services , policy-makers need to focus on community-based services and school mental health initiatives.
• Urgent investment in mental health is crucial to reduce disparities and address this escalating crisis.
• It is essential for stakeholders, such as governmental bodies, policy-makers, educational institutions, parents, students, media, and researchers, to prioritise mental health care.
• Integrating mental health education, resilience building, and coping skill training into regular school and college activities and school curricula will create a supportive environment for mental wellbeing.
• School-based suicide prevention, early socio-emotional skills development and anti-bullying programmes are essential components of comprehensive mental health strategies.

Reference

The Hindu | School Mental Health Programmes