Introduction
In recent years, mental health in schools has become a focal point for educators and policymakers alike. The study titled "Use, acceptability and impact of booklets designed to support mental health self-management and help seeking in schools: results of a large randomised controlled trial in England" provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of using informational booklets as a tool for promoting mental health among students. This blog post will explore the findings of this study and discuss how practitioners can enhance their skills by implementing these outcomes or pursuing further research.
Understanding the Study
The research was conducted as part of the Targeted Mental Health in Schools (TaMHS) program in England, which aimed to improve mental health support for children at risk. The study involved 846 schools and 14,690 students, divided into groups that received booklets, additional funding, both, or neither. The booklets were designed to provide psychoeducation and promote self-management strategies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques and positive psychology interventions.
Key Findings
- Use: Approximately 40% of primary school students and 20% of secondary school students reported seeing the booklets.
- Acceptability: 87% of primary students found the booklets helpful, compared to 73% of secondary students.
- Impact: The study found no significant impact on mental health, quality of life, or help-seeking behaviors, either alone or in conjunction with additional funding.
Implications for Practitioners
Despite the lack of significant impact, the study provides valuable insights for practitioners looking to improve mental health support in schools. Here are some ways to enhance your practice:
- Targeted Use: Consider using booklets in a more targeted manner, perhaps in collaboration with school counselors or as part of a broader mental health curriculum.
- Engage Students: Actively involve students in the development and implementation of mental health resources to increase engagement and relevance.
- Further Research: Conduct further research to explore other low-cost interventions and their potential impact on mental health outcomes.
Conclusion
While the study highlights the challenges of using informational booklets as a standalone intervention, it also opens the door for further exploration into effective mental health strategies in schools. Practitioners are encouraged to consider these findings critically and explore innovative ways to support students' mental health. To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Use, acceptability and impact of booklets designed to support mental health self-management and help seeking in schools: results of a large randomised controlled trial in England.
