Developing an effective mental health guidance module for primary schools: A survey study on needs and preferences

Abstract

There is an increasing recognition of mental health concerns in educational institutions, particularly in primary schools. The objective of this study was to obtain initial understanding of the fundamental components required for the creation of a mental health guidance module that can improve the efficacy of mental health awareness education in elementary schools. A comprehensive survey was administered to GBKSM, Senior Assistants, Education Counsellors, and Head Teachers at the State Education Department in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya to gather the required data. The survey covered participants' comprehension, proficiency, and beliefs on the management of mental health disorders and the approaches used in delivering mental health education. Significant findings indicate a necessity to prioritise emotion regulation at 90 percent, stress management at 85 percent, comprehension of mental health at 80 percent, and resilience development at 75 percent. Furthermore, social skills were identified as important at 70 percent, bullying prevention at 65 percent, and family dynamics at 60 percent. A notable 95 percent of participants favoured digital interactive tools for the dissemination of mental health education. The research underscores the necessity of creating interactive and digital resources to improve student engagement while providing ongoing professional development for educators. These findings establish a framework for developing a comprehensive mental health module that caters to the needs of students and the roles of educators in promoting a supportive environment. Future research should examine the efficacy of these modules across diverse educational contexts, assess their long-term impact on children's mental health, and ascertain whether educators need supplementary support for effective implementation.