Dr. Lucy Foulkes, an academic psychologist at the University of Oxford, leads a research group focused on mental health and social development in adolescence. She has authored books like “What Mental Illness Really Is (and what it isn’t)” and “Coming of Age: How Adolescence Shapes Us.” Dr. Foulkes recently shared her concerns about the effectiveness of mental health lessons in schools, pointing out that universal interventions may not be as beneficial as previously thought.
In her research, Dr. Foulkes discovered that while the idea of teaching mental health concepts in schools seemed promising, the actual impact of these lessons is underwhelming. Studies have shown that universal school mental health interventions often result in minimal improvements in mental health symptoms. In some cases, these interventions have even led to a small increase in mental health difficulties among students. This revelation challenges the belief that teaching mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and other mental health techniques to all students can prevent mental health problems from arising.
Despite the initial enthusiasm for universal mental health lessons, Dr. Foulkes now advocates for a more targeted approach. She suggests that instead of teaching all students the same mental health concepts, schools should focus on providing information on where to seek help for those who are struggling. By directing resources towards supporting students who are actually experiencing mental health challenges, schools can offer more effective assistance tailored to individual needs.
While the intention behind universal mental health lessons is noble, the evidence suggests that a one-size-fits-all approach may not be the most effective solution. Dr. Foulkes emphasizes the importance of listening to young people’s feedback and adjusting mental health education strategies accordingly. By acknowledging the limitations of current interventions and prioritizing personalized support for students in need, schools can better address the complex and varied mental health needs of their student population.
