Empowering Schools to Tackle Mental Health: A Commentary with Six Recommendations for Engaging Health Educators in Saudi Arabia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52609/jmlph.v5i4.232Keywords:
Adolescents, Health Education, Mental Health, Mental Health Literacy, Saudi Arabia, Schools, StigmaAbstract
Child and adolescent mental health challenges are on the rise globally and in Saudi Arabia, with studies showing high rates of depression and anxiety. Schools present a key opportunity to address these issues through early intervention and education. This commentary advocates for the integration of health educators into school-based mental health strategies in Saudi Arabia. It presents six practical recommendations, including psychoeducation workshops, anonymous feedback systems, and resource hubs, while emphasizing the need for structured training, cultural sensitivity, and cross-sector collaboration. Implementation considerations are also discussed to guide sustainable integration aligned with national policy.
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