School Environment and Mental Health and Well-being of students

Abstract

In today’s evolving world, schools serve not just as centers for academic learning but as critical environments for the holistic development of children and adolescents. Mental health and well-being are foundational to a student’s ability to learn, build relationships, and engage meaningfully in school and community life. The World Health Organization (2021) defines mental health as a state of well-being that enables individuals to realize their potential, manage everyday stress, work productively, and contribute to society. For students, strong mental health supports academic success, emotional regulation, social competence, and resilience. This chapter explores the link between school environments and student mental health, emphasizing the importance of safe, inclusive, and supportive settings. It discusses how protective environments reduce stressors such as poverty and trauma, while harmful conditions like bullying or academic pressure negatively affect well-being. The chapter also examines risk and protective factors, effective interventions, and the roles of teachers, administrators, parents, and communities in promoting mental health, concluding with key challenges and strategic solutions.