Preventions and interventions to support student mental health

Mental health challenges are affecting an increasing number of young people – to improve the support available to students and staff schools must improve access to mental health preventions and interventions

The most recent statistics on the mental health, development and wellbeing of children and young people in England, published in the Mental Health of Children and Young People Survey 2022, show consistently high rates of probable mental disorders across all ages and an increasing number of young people missing school due to mental health issues.

It is key that schools employ strategies to improve access to support for young people experiencing mental health challenges.

Improve young people’s mental health knowledge

Mental health and wellbeing education from an early age will help to prevent mental ill-health and encourage those who struggle to seek help earlier; lack of awareness, and not realising that their struggles could relate to poor mental health, are the most frequent barriers to young people seeking professional help.

Build a school environment that promotes and protects mental health

A whole-school approach to mental health will only see results if it is properly implemented. Building a positive and inclusive school environment enables schools to support the mental health of both pupils and staff, as well as offering routes to both internal and external support services.

Classroom management programmes can also help to improve classroom behaviour and concentration for pupils who are struggling.

Offer mental health courses to parents and carers

Parents and caregivers have an essential role in the wellbeing of children, especially when they are seeking mental health support. It is crucial that they have access to parenting courses that help them to learn about mental health issues and the processes involved in seeking help.

Identify at-risk individuals early and provide timely preventions and interventions

Given the increase in mental health challenges for young people, it is very important that early access to early mental health interventions and prevention is improved. Examples of early preventions and interventions include:

• Small group programmes which can develop confidence, reduce anxiety and help student to deal with challenging situations.
• Mental health first aiders will spot the early signs of mental health issues in a young person, offer first aid and guide them towards the support they need.
• Anti-stigma work to de-stigmatise mental health and encourage those who are struggling to seek help.
• Virtual services which canimprove access to mental health interventions.
• Positive education will support children and young people to cultivate positive feelings, develop positive behaviours for learning and build positive ways of thinking, understanding and expressing their emotions – recognising their strengths and learning ways to be resilient, and cope with challenges.
• Coaching and counselling can address mental health issues and teach students coping skills.