NCERT issues guidelines to schools for early identification of mental health problems in students

Source: The post is based on the article “NCERT issues guidelines to schools for early identification of mental health problems in students” published in The Hindu on 16th September 2022.

What is the News?

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has issued guidelines titled “Early identification and intervention for mental health problems in school-going children and adolescents” following a mental health survey among school children.

What are the reasons for stress and anxiety among school-going children?

Exam and peer pressure, Results-pressure, a decline in satisfaction with personal and school life and parental expectations.

What are the key guidelines issued by NCERT?

Firstly, schools should establish a Mental Health Advisory Panel. It should be chaired by the principal and have teachers, parents, students and alumni as members. It will create awareness and also plan and enforce an age and gender-appropriate annual school mental health programme.

Secondly, mechanisms should be in place for early Identification of behavioural patterns in students including substance use and self-harm.

Thirdly, teachers must be trained in identifying early signs in students for attachment issues, separation anxiety, anxiety patterns, depressive states, excessive internet use, hyperactivity, intellectual disability and learning disabilities.

Lastly, teachers should talk about bullying cases in class and empower students by educating them regarding bullying. 

Government Initiatives to tackle Mental Health among School Children

Manodarpan: The initiative aims to address the psychosocial issues of students. It includes support and counselling sessions for students in regard with their mental health and wellbeing. Students can call the toll-free national helpline number — 8448440632 for counselling.

NCERT Counseling Services for School Children: This initiative was launched in April 2020 to support students’ mental health amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

SAHYOG: Guidance for Mental Wellbeing of Children: This includes live interactive sessions mental well-being of children. The sessions are telecasted on 12 PM eVidya DTH-TV channels for classes 1 to 12.

Wellbeing material by NCERT: NCERT has developed a comprehensive package known as ‘Training and Resource Material: Health and Wellness of School-going Children’. It includes a specific module on “Emotional Well-being and Mental Health”, which has activities related to the mental health and well-being of students and teachers.