It is stated that globally over a third of students experience mental health issues like anxiety and depression. In a sad state of reality many parents especially in India believe that mental health is a faux. They mainly believe that their child could be lying or is faking in the name of not going to school. While students are made to choose maths, science and a language as compulsory subjects, topics that are crucial for life are often neglected. And one such topics is the importance of mental health. While constantly listening to news about students suicides daily it is high time that mental health gets the importance of being a core subject in educational institutes.
The Silent Struggle of Students
Sometimes a students silence, not being attentive in class or losing focus while studying could be silent signs of struggle. A child could be facing academic pressure, subject to bullying from peers, dealing with family issues and more. In such situations an individuals mental and overall wellbeing is disrupted. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in seven adolescents globally experiences a mental health disorder, yet the majority go untreated due to lack of awareness and stigma. Just like a child’s cry is ignored and we often quote it as she is acting or it will be fine, similarly mental issues often go unnoticed.
Sometimes they say there is a lot hidden behind a smile or putting on a fake smile is easier than a real one. In such cases while students may appear attentive in class, laugh with friends yet there are times they may fear when voices are raised or react violently. There could be major reasons as to children silently facing their battles although they are not familiar with it. They struggle with understanding what may lie behind these issues like anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, autism and more.
Yet there are parents that would not offer support or help. These conditions lead to poor academic performance, behavioral issues or even long term consequences like self harm, getting in wrong groups or even suicidal tendencies. For this the first step is to recognize and address these challenges. And education is one of the most effective ways to do it.
Why Mental Health Should Be a Core Subject?
Just as students learn about physical health in biology, they should also learn about emotional and psychological well-being. Mental health education can help students identify their emotions, manage stress, build resilience, and develop empathy. When children are taught to understand and care for their mental health from an early age, they grow into adults who are self-aware, emotionally balanced, and better equipped to handle life’s challenges.
Moreover, mental health education helps in reducing stigma. In many cultures and communities, talking about mental health is still considered taboo. This silence only deepens the problem, making those who suffer feel isolated and ashamed. Introducing as a subject in school not only normalizes the conversation but also promotes an environment where students feel safe to express themselves and seek help. Schools are the first line of defense and when schools provide a platform it helps normalize conversations surrounding this topic.
Including in the curriculum does not mean burdening students with another exam-heavy subject. Instead, it should be approached in a creative and engaging way. A core curriculum could look like having half an hour to one hour of regular classes on emotional literacy, stress management, self-awareness, mindfulness. Along with, integration of activities like journaling, group discussions, and meditation. Schools also must have a counseling team or room for students to share their problems openly without feeling ashamed. They must also provide regular training for teachers to spot signs of distress and offer basic support. Most importantly, schools should work closely with parents to create a supportive environment both at home and in the classroom.
Addressing the Challenges
Some critics argue that discussing mental health in schools may be too personal or complex. Others worry about time constraints in already packed schedules. However, avoiding the topic does not make the problem go away. Yes although there could be challenges like lack of time and not every staff is trained in this field, some schools may need to remove the budget for hiring new mental health professional or counsellors.
Although, it’s an investment in long-term success; existing subjects can incorporate themes; teacher training can be scaled. Even a single class per week dedicated to emotional well-being can make a significant difference in a student’s life. Prioritizing is not about replacing other subjects but enriching the overall educational experience.
Long-Term Benefits for Society
Investing in mental health education is not just beneficial for individual students, but for society as a whole. Emotionally healthy individuals are more likely to form strong relationships, succeed professionally, and contribute positively to their communities. In contrast, untreated mental health issues can lead to increased healthcare costs, lost productivity, and even crime or violence.
Countries that prioritize mental well-being in education systems like Finland and Australia report higher life satisfaction, lower suicide rates, and better academic outcomes. Let’s have a look at which global and Indian schools prioritize mental health.
Global and Indian Schools Embracing Mental Health Education
The British government made it compulsory in 2020 for all schools in England to teach relationships and health education, which includes topics like mental well-being, stress, and resilience. Organizations like YoungMinds also support mental health in schools. In Australia, The KidsMatter and MindMatters programs (now replaced by Be You) were developed to improve mental health outcomes in schools. They provide teachers with structured frameworks to promote social and emotional learning (SEL) and recognize early warning signs of distress.
In India, while mental health education is still finding its footing, several forward-thinking schools have begun integrating it into their curricula. For example, The Heritage School in Delhi and Gurugram offers a dedicated Life Skills program that covers emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and mental well-being. Similarly, Tagore International School in Delhi runs peer mentoring programs and mental wellness clubs, supported by trained counselors on campus. The Riverside School in Ahmedabad also stands out for making emotional literacy a core part of its personalized and child-centered learning approach. These institutions demonstrate how mental health education can be effectively woven into mainstream schooling to foster healthier, more resilient students.
Just as we teach children how to multiply numbers or understand gravity, we must also teach them how to manage anxiety, express feelings, and build emotional strength. By making it a core subject, we equip the next generation with tools that go beyond textbooks, tools that help them lead happier, healthier, and more meaningful lives. It is time we reimagine education not just as a path to academic success, but as a foundation for lifelong well-being.
