Healthy Minds – Wellbeing at School
2018-1-UK01-KA201-048254
A 2017 IPPR report found a nearly fivefold increase in mental illness among young people leaving school over the past decade. Issues such as alcohol and drug misuse, self-harm, and vulnerability to suicide are on the rise. In 2016, about 250,000 children—mostly teenagers—were receiving mental health care in England. School environments have become increasingly stressful, worsening mental health conditions for older students.
A survey by stem4 of 500 students aged 12–16 revealed major sources of anxiety: exam pressure (41%), too much schoolwork (31%), friendship issues (28%), low confidence and body image concerns (26% each), and general feelings of being overwhelmed (25%). While anxiety in adolescence isn’t new, modern-day pressures related to academics and social expectations are intensifying the problem.
Similar concerns are reflected in other European countries. For example, evidence from Lithuania and Romania shows that older students face significant social risks, including parental emigration, substance abuse, bullying, violence, institutionalization, and a reluctance to seek mental health services. Lithuania also has one of the highest student suicide rates globally.
In response, a project is being developed to support youth mental health. It includes a flexible, modular curriculum and training course for students aged 13 to 21 in schools, colleges, and universities. The course addresses key issues identified in the research and aims to dispel myths, provide reassurance, and build resilience through discussions led by teachers and tutors.
Using a blended learning approach with strong ICT components, the program features instructional videos, self-guided workbooks, international collaboration via a custom learning platform, and poster competitions to raise awareness. Students actively participate in spreading mental health messages among their peers. The initiative also involves school staff and parents to ensure students receive support both at school and at home.
If you have any questions regarding the project, please contact us by e-mail projects projects@inovacijubiuras.lt
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