Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has reviewed the draft Mental Health Policy for Schools, marking an important step towards strengthening mental health support systems for students, teachers, and the broader school community across India.

According to the Ministry of Education, the review meeting brought together senior officials, policy committee members, education specialists, and mental health experts to discuss strategies for promoting emotional well-being, psychological resilience, and a supportive learning environment within schools. The discussions focused on integrating mental health awareness into educational settings and creating mechanisms for early identification and support for students facing emotional or psychological challenges.

The initiative comes at a time when mental health concerns among children and adolescents are receiving increasing attention globally. According to WHO, approximately one in seven adolescents aged 10-19 years worldwide experiences a mental health condition, making mental well-being a critical public health and education priority.

Education experts note that academic pressure, social challenges, digital exposure, bullying, and post pandemic lifestyle changes have contributed to growing concerns around student mental health. The proposed policy is expected to provide a structured framework for awareness programs, counselling services, teacher training, and school-based mental health interventions.

The Ministry emphasized that the policy aims to support not only students but also teachers and school staff, recognizing the importance of a holistic approach to mental wellness. Experts believe that strengthening mental health support within schools can improve academic performance, reduce stress related issues, enhance emotional resilience, and foster healthier learning environments.

India has increasingly prioritized mental health through initiatives such as the National Mental Health Programme and the Tele-MANAS helpline network. The proposed school policy is expected to complement these efforts by addressing mental health challenges at an early stage.

Healthcare and education professionals have welcomed the move, noting that schools are often the first place where emotional and behavioural concerns can be identified and addressed. Early intervention and supportive environments can significantly improve long term outcomes for children and adolescents.

The review of the draft policy reflects the government’s growing focus on student well-being as an integral part of educational development. Once finalized, the policy is expected to guide schools in creating safer, more inclusive, and mentally healthy learning spaces for millions of students across the country