A study of Irish secondary school student’s views on mental health supports in school

Objectives:
An increasing number of young people are experiencing mental health difficulties and schools have been identified as environments that can support them. However, it is unclear how students feel about the current supports in school and whether they are used. The aim of this study is to explore the perceptions of young people in Irish post-primary schools regarding mental health and well-being supports in schools.

Methods:
An online survey was conducted with (n=109) young people to determine the perceptions of mental health and well-being supports in post-primary Irish schools. Using a convenience sampling method, an online survey was distributed via gatekeepers in local youth and sporting groups. Data collection was completed using the Barriers to Seeking Help-brief version (BASH-B) and additional tailored questions.

Results:
Qualities like being ‘trustworthy’ and ‘a good listener’ were reported as key for adults to be considered a good support in schools. Current mental health and well-being supports were not considered adequate with 65.1% of the participants feeling ‘somewhat supported’ and 22.9% feeling ‘not at all supported’.

Conclusions:
Better advertising of mental health support services should be implemented in schools to promote awareness. This study can inform the development of such services which are urgently needed.