Harris launches new report on promoting mental health in schools

Posted April 26th, 2012 in Children, Mental Health

Oireachtas Cross Party Group on Mental Health launches Spotlight report on mental health education.
Fine Gael Wicklow TD, Simon Harris, has said that schools can play a significant part in educating young people about caring for their mental health.

Speaking at the Oireachtas Cross Party Group on Mental Health report launch, Deputy Harris, a Co Convenor of the group said, “Our education system needs to give students to tools they need to excel in all aspects of their life. Knowing how to care for their mental health is a skill that will stand to them throughout their careers as students, in the workplace and with their families.”

“The research shows that mental health promotion is most effective when it takes place early in a person’s life. For maximum impact, mental health promotion must be reflected across every element of the school’s approach and this will require buy-in from parents, teachers and students.”

“Teaching children how talk about mental health issues before they become serious problems is one of the most important skills we can give them. I will be working hard with my colleagues on the Cross Party Group on Mental Health to continue to advocate for better mental health education in our schools, and a better understanding of mental health issues overall.”