Mental Health Program Delivery in Kamora National High School: Existing Initiatives, Challenges, and Proposed Recommendations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsair.V2.I2.585Keywords:
Community Partnerships, Guidance Counselor, Mental Health, Program Delivery, Psychological First Aid, School-Based Counseling, Thematic Analysis, Wellness ActivitiesAbstract
This study examined mental health program delivery at Kamora National High School, focusing on existing initiatives, implementation challenges, and proposed recommendations. Anchored on public administration, systems thinking, Institutional Theory, the Social Ecological Model, and Public Value Theory, the study used a qualitative case study design. Data were gathered from 30 school personnel composed of teachers, one administrator, and non-teaching staff through a content-validated interview guide, document analysis, and thematic analysis. Findings showed that the school implements mental health initiatives through school-based counseling, referral, Psychological First Aid, classroom integration, wellness breaks, Zumba, hiking, and socialization activities. However, implementation is limited by insufficient funding, absence of a permanent Registered Guidance Counselor, lack of private counseling space, additional workload for teachers, and socio-cultural stigma among learners and parents. Participants recommended strengthening mental health programs through regular seminars, awareness campaigns, IEC activities, early screening, peer support, staff training, formal referral systems, monitoring and evaluation, improved funding, dedicated counseling facilities, and stronger partnerships with local government, health offices, alumni, parents, and community stakeholders. The study concludes that while Kamora National High School has established foundational mental health services, these must be strengthened into a more preventive, structured, and sustainable school-wide support system. The study aligns with SDG 3 on Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 4 on Quality Education, SDG 16 on Strong Institutions, and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals. Its sustainability impact lies in improving institutional, educational, public health, governance, and community support systems for learner well-being.
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