New research led by University College London (UCL) and the Anna Freud Centre shows that whole-class mental health sessions have a small but meaningful effect in lowering symptoms of depression and anxiety among schoolchildren.
The study, published in Frontiers in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, reviewed 71 existing studies involving over 63,000 young people aged 8 to 18 from 22 countries. Most studies were done in secondary schools, mainly in Australia and the United States.
Researchers found that sessions based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)—which teaches young people to identify and challenge negative thoughts—were more effective at reducing anxiety than sessions based on mindfulness or other approaches like yoga or physical education.
Dr. Daniel Hayes from UCL and Anna Freud said, “The value of whole-class mental health programs has been debated. Some experts questioned their usefulness due to mixed past results. But our latest review shows these sessions can reduce depression and anxiety symptoms. Although the effect is small for each individual, it can be important when applied to many students.”
The study showed that while CBT sessions helped reduce anxiety symptoms more than other methods, there was no difference between approaches in reducing depression symptoms. Also, the length of the sessions and who delivered them—teachers or psychologists—did not change the outcomes.
Mental health problems in children and young people are a growing concern worldwide. Schools are a key place to provide support because they can reach many children, including those who might not seek help otherwise. Whole-class interventions can also reduce stigma by involving all students and helping to build overall wellbeing.
Professor Jessica Deighton from UCL and Anna Freud added, “These programs should be part of a wider, school-wide approach that includes building supportive relationships and offering targeted help to those who need it most.”
The research was funded by the UK Department for Education and included experts from several UK universities.
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