News
October 16, 2025
Mind the warning signs
PETALING JAYA: Experts are calling for earlier mental health screening and more robust intervention measures in schools, warning that troubling student behaviour often goes unnoticed until it escalates into violence. Read full story
**PETALING JAYA:** Experts are sounding the alarm on the urgent need for improved mental health support within schools, emphasizing the critical role of early detection and proactive intervention. A growing concern is that subtle warning signs of mental distress in students are frequently overlooked, allowing issues to fester and potentially culminate in acts of violence.
Mental health professionals are advocating for the implementation of comprehensive mental health screening programs within educational institutions. These screenings would aim to identify students who may be struggling with emotional or psychological difficulties, even if they are not overtly expressing their problems. The hope is that by catching these issues early, schools can provide timely support and prevent escalation.
The current system often relies on reactive measures, addressing problems only after they become apparent through disruptive behaviour or academic decline. Experts argue that this approach is insufficient and that a more preventative strategy is crucial. Early intervention not only benefits the individual student but also contributes to a safer and more supportive school environment for everyone.
The call for action includes not only increased screening but also a strengthening of intervention measures. This encompasses providing access to qualified counselors and therapists within schools, implementing mental health awareness programs for students and staff, and fostering a culture of open communication and empathy. Teachers and school staff need to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to recognize the signs of mental distress in students and to know how to appropriately respond.
Furthermore, experts emphasize the importance of collaboration between schools, parents, and mental health professionals. A cohesive approach is essential to ensure that students receive consistent and comprehensive support, both within and outside of the school environment. By working together, these stakeholders can create a safety net that catches students before they fall into crisis. The message is clear: addressing mental health challenges in schools requires a proactive, multi-faceted approach that prioritizes early detection, robust intervention, and a supportive school community. Ignoring the warning signs can have devastating consequences, highlighting the urgent need for change.
Mental health professionals are advocating for the implementation of comprehensive mental health screening programs within educational institutions. These screenings would aim to identify students who may be struggling with emotional or psychological difficulties, even if they are not overtly expressing their problems. The hope is that by catching these issues early, schools can provide timely support and prevent escalation.
The current system often relies on reactive measures, addressing problems only after they become apparent through disruptive behaviour or academic decline. Experts argue that this approach is insufficient and that a more preventative strategy is crucial. Early intervention not only benefits the individual student but also contributes to a safer and more supportive school environment for everyone.
The call for action includes not only increased screening but also a strengthening of intervention measures. This encompasses providing access to qualified counselors and therapists within schools, implementing mental health awareness programs for students and staff, and fostering a culture of open communication and empathy. Teachers and school staff need to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to recognize the signs of mental distress in students and to know how to appropriately respond.
Furthermore, experts emphasize the importance of collaboration between schools, parents, and mental health professionals. A cohesive approach is essential to ensure that students receive consistent and comprehensive support, both within and outside of the school environment. By working together, these stakeholders can create a safety net that catches students before they fall into crisis. The message is clear: addressing mental health challenges in schools requires a proactive, multi-faceted approach that prioritizes early detection, robust intervention, and a supportive school community. Ignoring the warning signs can have devastating consequences, highlighting the urgent need for change.
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Politics