A national survey shows a 12.9% to 17.8% prevalence of some form of mental disorder in the child & adolescent population. The National Mental Health Policy of Nepal has excluded provisions to bridge the 80% gap in mental health services and to mandate it within schools. No school among, 29,000 incorporates programs to prevent mental disorders and promote mental well-being, a basic right.
The School Mental Health program improves the accessibility of mental health services, especially in rural regions. The program mobilizes at least one trained school counselor in targeted schools. It provides mental health programs like mental health literacy development (Social-Emotional Learning; Heart Workbook & Life-Skill curriculum) conducted weekly. In areas with internet access, the social-emotional learning program is encouraged to be accessed through an application developed by the organization. The immediate impact is shown by a 70% increase in help-seeking which leads to therapeutic counseling within the school system. The innovation also promises the establishment of infrastructure; the Counseling Room. It provides a safe space for children to talk about their problems in a private manner with their counselors.
The program has reached 26 schools in 6 districts. The schools, prior to the school mental health program, excluded provisions of mental health services or professionals. The School Mental Health program has been able to conduct awareness sessions, therapeutic sessions, and mental health literacy lessons for 10,000 students which indirectly impacts their families. 4 schools have received counseling rooms in 2 different districts. The programs have contributed to increasing awareness of mental health, help-seeking, and adherence to services. The School Mental Health program aims to reach 100 schools and 30,000 - 40,000 students by 2024.
The School Mental Health program is based in the country of Nepal. Anyone can inquire about the program through email; hello@sambhavya.org.np, stating the need for their school.
