A new policy to identify students at risk of psychological distress

The Department of Education and Knowledge revealed the implementation of a new educational policy in schools regarding the mental health of students, indicating that it will implement the policy during the current academic year, and will organize training and introductory workshops for schools, provided that compliance with the policy in private schools in the emirate begins with the beginning of the next academic year 2025-2026.

The department stressed that integrated safety is essential to ensure the progress and success of students, adding that schools bear the responsibility of caring for and supporting the psychological safety of the student community, and identifying those at risk of mental health and supporting them, noting that “this policy specifies the basic requirements for schools with regard to introducing students to psychological safety and providing support services.” Psychological.

The department stressed that the new policy aims to ensure that mental health is given priority and included in all aspects of the school environment, and to encourage schools to adopt a comprehensive approach to promoting mental health through awareness campaigns and initiatives directed at relevant partners, in addition to supporting the process of early detection and intervention through the establishment of systems and protocols. To identify and address mental health concerns early.

The Department obligated schools, through the new policy, to develop and implement a mental health policy for students, with a focus on prevention and early intervention in accordance with the integrated safety policies of the Department of Education and Knowledge, noting that the policy must include raising awareness and educating students through a clear approach and plan to ensure that students learn and understand how to Live a balanced, healthy life, including activities to promote and maintain mental health.

She pointed out the necessity of providing the services of therapeutic specialists inside the school, or from outside it, for students who may need additional support or counseling, and referral paths for providing procedures through which individuals can refer themselves or others to psychological support services provided by the school and providing support with a step-by-step approach so that Students can manage and relieve stress during critical stages throughout the school year, while providing appropriate resources, such as a health space and a recovery space that provide opportunities for students to focus on their health and reduce stress and anxiety, in addition to providing tailored services for students with additional educational needs.

She pointed out the need for schools to educate students about mental health and how to live a healthy, balanced life, with a focus on strengthening preventive factors and developing coping mechanisms.

This should also include meditation, social and emotional learning (including emotion regulation and resilience), stress management, time management, organisation, the importance of creating an open environment for those seeking mental health support, and avoiding actions that can lead to discrimination.

Regarding students in the second and third cycles, the Department of Mental Health Policy indicated the need for topics to include other types of mental health challenges (such as depression, anxiety), related coping mechanisms (such as parental separation or divorce), and the use of some substances (illness). Use, abuse, addiction, prevention or treatment, eating disorders (including causes, indications, and treatment), digital gaming addiction, suicide and suicidal thoughts, any concerns about abuse, and ways to access help.

The department stressed that schools must inform parents of the student mental health policy and related initiatives and provide opportunities for participation, including facilitating and disseminating awareness materials, holding workshops, and encouraging parents’ participation in surveys on mental health conducted by other partners.