A Mixed Research Study to Assess the Preparedness of School Teacher’s in Participating Mental Health Services with an Aim to Develop Need-Based Leaflet on Mental Health Needs of Children in Selected Schools, Chhattisgarh

Abstract

Background: Mental health is fundamental to good health and well-being, and it influences social and economic outcomes through-out life. According to World Health Organization (WHO) the self-harm rates in the adolescent age group are found in the highest numbers at a global level. Most mental disorders begin before 25 years of age, more often between 11-18years. Educators' roles are changing as they take their place on the front lines of child and youth mental health. Teacher education programs should equip teachers with the necessary knowledge, skills and resources that are required for them to be successful as professionals. Aim: The present study is aimed to assess the preparedness of school teachers participating in mental health services. Setting and Design: A mixed (Descriptive) research design was adopted for the study. The study focused on school teachers from selected school of Swami Aatmanand Excellence English/Hindi Medium School, Kannevada and Govt. Higher Secondary School, Sorar Balod (C.G.). Material and Methods: quantitative data was collected by self-structured tool to assess socio demographic variables and self-structured checklist to assess preparedness (quantitative) of school teachers participating in mental health service. Were used qualitative data was collected by case vignette (qualitative) with 10 teachers and the responses were recorded. Result: Quantitative findings suggest an average preparedness of school teachers participating in mental health services. Total mean score for response of preparedness of school teachers 41.32 ± 1.67. With respect to education level as 8.88 higher than tab=5.99 and previously received training regarding mental health issues as tab 16.47 is more than tab=5.99, association with preparedness of school teachers was statically proved to be significant. Hence H1 was accepted. Theme wise analysis of verbatim by the participants, found that most participants expressed managing the illness, striving to understand and promote mental health, feeling of autonomy in decision making, adapting healthy behavioral modification approaches.