In response to growing mental health concerns among teenagers, the UK’s Department for Education has announced that all public schools will introduce mandatory weekly “mental health check-ins” starting this September. Under the new plan, students aged 11–18 will engage in guided sessions once a week with certified counselors or trained teachers. Topics will include emotional literacy, coping mechanisms, mindfulness, and identifying early signs of depression or stress.
Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said the program aims to reduce the rising number of youth suicides and hospitalizations due to anxiety and depression. Recent NHS data shows that one in six UK teenagers struggles with mental health. Pilot versions of this program in Manchester and Bristol showed a 30% drop in student referrals to psychiatric units.
Health experts from India, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka have also shown interest in the model, considering adaptations suitable for their school systems. Experts suggest this could become a new pillar in global education policy if implemented well.
