Mental Health and Well-Being in Higher Education: Challenges, Policy Perspectives, and Institutional Strategies for Student Support

Abstract

School students across the world are increasingly facing challenges related to mental health and well-being. Pre-service teachers are often expected to address these concerns, despite having limited formal training in identifying and responding to students' mental health needs. This chapter examines how mental health literacy, emotional resilience, and intervention strategies can be integrated into pre-service teacher education programmes. A comprehensive review of the literature highlights key issues, including the prevalence and impact of mental health disorders among students, the preparedness of teachers, the importance of emotional resilience training, effective intervention strategies, collaborative approaches, and the integration of mental health education into teacher preparation programmes. According to the World Health Organization, approximately one in seven adolescents experiences a mental health disorder, with depression and anxiety among the most prevalent conditions. However, existing research suggests that many pre-service teachers lack the necessary knowledge and training to identify and respond effectively to the mental health needs of their students. To address this gap, the chapter proposes a comprehensive framework aimed at equipping pre-service teachers with essential knowledge and skills. The framework encompasses mental health literacy, emotional resilience and self-care, early identification and intervention skills, and collaboration within referral networks. The chapter further discusses the implications for teacher education programmes and emphasizes the need to integrate mental health training as an essential component of teacher preparation through interdisciplinary coursework, practical activities, and appropriate assessment mechanisms. It concludes by emphasizing the importance of a proactive and comprehensive approach to mental health education in teacher preparation, enabling teachers to better support student well-being and contribute to the development of mentally healthy educational environments.