Upper secondary students’ perceptions of the effects of expanded student services on their mental health literacy

This case study explores students’ perceptions of the effects of expanded student services on their mental health literacy (MHL). The data is derived from a pilot project that provides additional resources for health care professionals and social workers in an upper secondary school (students aged 16–19) to better enable them to enhance the mental health literacy of the students. MHL comprises students’ knowledge about the antecedents of and risk factors for mental health problems, the nature of mental illness, the lgocation of resources and the promotion of positive mental health. The majority of students (>70%) reported improved MHL as a result of their participation in the pilot project. They found it easier to contact health professionals and to speak openly about mental health issues, and they also reported increased knowledge about mental health due to the project. Still, in comparison to the female students the male students found it easier to talk about mental health with teachers, school counsellors and school nurses. Implications of the study will be discussed.