A new study suggests that teaching students to understand stress and sadness as natural parts of life may significantly improve their mental health. Conducted by UCL and the Anna Freud Centre, the research highlights the importance of resilience and how schools can support students by changing their perspectives on emotions.
The study, which ran from 2018 to 2024, involved 32,000 students across 500 schools in England as part of the Education for Wellbeing trial, funded by the Department for Education. One key finding is that children who are taught to view stress and sadness as normal experiences tend to show better mental health outcomes.
The research focused on several strategies to improve mental health awareness among students in Years 4, 5, 7, and 8. One of the most effective approaches was the Strategies for Safety and Wellbeing (SSW), which helps normalize feelings of stress and sadness. It also encourages students to ask for help when needed and shows significant improvements in mental health literacy when used consistently in both primary and secondary schools.
Mindfulness exercises were another key strategy. These exercises aim to reduce stress and improve focus. However, their effectiveness varied depending on the age and background of the students involved. Relaxation techniques also played a role in helping students regulate their emotions and stay calm, but they required consistent practice to be effective.
The study confirms that schools have a critical role in shaping students’ mental well-being. However, for these strategies to be successful, they need to be implemented regularly and with commitment. School leaders are essential in ensuring the success and sustainability of mental health initiatives. The study provides a clear, evidence-based framework to guide decision-making.
To ensure success, it’s crucial for school leaders to work closely with senior leaders and integrate mental health strategies into the school’s daily routine. Regular feedback from students, attendance data, and well-being surveys can help measure the effectiveness of these strategies. Training teachers and support staff is also vital to ensure they have the necessary tools to implement the strategies effectively.
By incorporating these strategies into existing wellbeing and safeguarding policies, schools can create a unified approach to promoting mental health. The study shows that improving student wellbeing doesn’t always require new, complex programs—sometimes, it’s about refining existing efforts with clearer structure and guidance.
This research offers practical solutions to improve student mental health, focusing on building resilience and fostering a better understanding of emotions.
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