Annual Research Review: Improving school climate to improve child and adolescent mental health and reduce inequalities

Much of the research around school mental health has focused on using schools as a setting to deliver new interventions to large numbers of young people. Increasingly however, research is shifting towards changing the school system itself to support student mental health and wellbeing, with a growing emphasis on improving school climate.

This article explores debates around the potential benefits and harms of school-based interventions, before focusing on school climate as a key target for mental health promotion and prevention.

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The prevalence of potentially traumatic events in childhood and associations with mental disorders, suicide and physical health in adulthood

This study estimated the population prevalence of exposure to potentially traumatic events during childhood, such as serious accidents, physical or sexual violence, and natural disasters among Australians, and examined their association with mental disorders, suicide, and long-term physical health conditions.

The findings illustrate the widespread and enduring impacts of childhood trauma and highlight the importance of early detection and intervention, trauma-informed healthcare, and coordinated policy and practice across health, education, and social service systems.

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Optimising the implementation of a universal web-based mental health service for Australian secondary schools

Secondary schools are increasingly delivering a range of mental health interventions with varying levels of success. This cluster randomised controlled trial examined the effectiveness of two implementation strategies, allocation of class time and provision of financial incentives, on secondary students’ engagement with Smooth Sailing, a universal web-based mental health service.

Findings from the trial highlight the challenges of optimising student engagement with digital mental health services in school settings and emphasise the importance of considering the broader school context when implementing such interventions.

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Efficacy of a school-based, universal prevention programme for depression and anxiety in adolescents

Adolescence is a critical period for the onset of mental health challenges. This study evaluated the effectiveness of OurFutures Mental Health, a school-based intervention designed to improve mental health knowledge and prevent symptoms of depression and anxiety among young people.

A two-arm cluster-randomised controlled trial was conducted between 2023 and 2024. Findings suggest that OurFutures Mental Health is a promising intervention, with evidence of improved mental health knowledge and short-term reductions in anxiety symptoms among adolescents.

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National survey of community attitudes to prevention of mental health problems

A recent national survey exploring community attitudes toward the prevention of mental health problems has revealed strong public support for increased efforts in this area.

Of the 6,142 Australians aged 16-75+ who took part, most respondents indicated that preventing mental health problems should be a top priority for government. Many also expressed their belief that conditions such as depression and anxiety can be prevented. Alongside this, 64.7% of the surveyed group supported an equal distribution of funding across prevention and treatment.

These findings highlight widespread community support to expand mental health prevention efforts that support the wellbeing of all Australians, with a particular focus on adolescence and young adulthood.

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