New Study Reveals Breakthrough Program in Schools Improves Mental Health Awareness
A groundbreaking program designed to improve mental health among school students has achieved outstanding results, with a significant increase in awareness and reduction of stigma, according to a new study published in The Australian Educational Researcher journal.
The Decode Mental Health and Well-being Program, developed by digital health studio Matterworks, has been found to increase mental health literacy and decrease stigma among students in partnership with EdTech company Education Perfect. The program uses entertaining video content featuring real-life stories, TV, TikTok, and sporting stars to educate students about mental health concerns and provide actionable solutions.
published in The Australian Educational Researcher journal, the study analyzed 5 primary and secondary schools in Victoria under a pilot study, found that 67% of students and 86% of teachers reported positive engagement with the program.
The program was also effective in reducing stigma around mental health by 19%, highlighting its effectiveness at fostering open and supportive attitudes and conversations.
Additionally, 57% of teachers reported an increase in student well-being, as a pilot evaluation found that the program improved awareness and reduced stigma among students and increased teacher confidence to discuss and facilitate mental health discussions in the classroom. The results came as no surprise to MCRI Professor Harriet Hiscock, who noted that "prevention and early intervention in schools is key to long-term change."
As Australia grapples with the growing issue of youth mental health, a report by the World Health Organization highlights that one in seven children aged 4-17 years experiences a mental health diagnosis in any given year. The findings are timely, as the Federal Government considers tightening restrictions on social media access for those under 16.
According to Matterworks Co-founder and Chief Product Officer Kylie Robertson, "we've seen that the way young people consume content today has shifted dramatically. Social media is where young people spend much of their time and Decode was designed to meet them there."
The program's creators are also highlighting its effectiveness in reaching young people on social media platforms.
"Matterworks exists—we're bridging that gap by bringing engaging, research-driven content directly to where young people already are," said Sarah Wyse, Matterworks Co-founder and CEO.