Home / Education / Gujarat schools launch mental health support teams
Gujarat schools launch mental health support teams
2 Nov
Summary
- Schools now require dedicated wellness teams and peer support.
- New regulations focus on student well-being beyond academics.
- Confidentiality is paramount for student mental health information.
Gujarat has introduced new regulations to bolster mental health support in secondary and higher secondary schools, covering Classes 9 to 12. The state government aims to ensure students' mental well-being receives equal importance to academic achievement, addressing concerns like examination pressure and future anxieties.
The regulations mandate the formation of School Wellness Teams, led by principals and coordinated by counsellors or designated teachers. These teams will include teachers, a School Management Committee representative, non-teaching staff, and student 'Mano-Mitra' peer leaders.
Schools with over 100 students must appoint at least one qualified counsellor. Smaller schools are required to establish referral arrangements with external mental health services. Regulations also prohibit segregating or publicly humiliating students based on academic performance.
Furthermore, schools must organize activities like yoga and meditation to support student well-being and ensure confidential channels for students to voice concerns. Staff training in psychological first aid and identifying warning signs is also required, with strict confidentiality maintained for student records.
