Research shows a growing adolescent population with less focus on school mental health. Indian studies reveal rising concerns hindered by cultural mismatches and a lack of comprehensive solutions. Schools lack programs and trained professionals and rely on Western data. SIMHA works to address adolescent mental health in a contextually relevant manner, which is crucial for a better future.
Our innovation, School Initiative for Mental Health Advocacy (SIMHA), comprises three core components: Advocacy, Research, and Capacity-building.
Advocacy involves collaborating with school stakeholders, governments, and organizations to promote student well-being. SIMHA has established partnerships with over ten state governments and engaged with private organizations for mental health training. Our Well-being Ambassadors Program (WAP) promotes mental health awareness on university campuses through student ambassadors.
Research focuses on developing culturally relevant frameworks and tools for school mental health. SIMHA has created India's first School Mental Health Review Tool (SMHRT) and Digital Mental Health Resources for various school stakeholders.
Capacity-building aims to empower school stakeholders to create safe environments and support students' mental health. SIMHA offers specialized training manuals and conducts on-site and online training sessions across India.
Achievements:
SIMHA launched the School Mental Health Review Tool (SMHRT) in December 2023. Three manuals for school stakeholders were published. Through partnerships and training, 20,000 stakeholders were reached. A Helpline for mental health guidance was established and shared through training sites and networks.
Future Goals:
SIMHA plans to deepen collaborations with National and State governments, expand training outreach, and broaden program scope. It aims to integrate the School Mental Health Review Tool (SMHRT) nationwide with the Ministry of Education and conduct a Pan-India Pilot. Additionally, SIMHA will develop the School Counsellor’s Network, engage with global mental health pioneers, and publish reports to raise awareness.
If an individual wants to access and engage with our solution, they can email us at simha.tiss.2022@gmail.com expressing their interest. They can specify the type of collaboration they are looking towards and briefly describe the background of the organisation they work for. Based on their email, our Director/Manager will get back to them to discuss the next steps.
