Mental Health Education

The Finnish Association for Mental Health has compiled a mental health study module which supports the growing up process, development, wellbeing and life skills of young people.

The module spans three years and can be incorporated in the health education programme of comprehensive school grades 7 to 9. The study module is based on the objectives and content of the National Core Curriculum (2004) for health education.

In the study module, mental health is seen as a resource – you can support, enhance, teach and acquire mental health skills and knowledge. Building on this foundation, the study module provides suitable, consistent content for each grade and progresses to discuss the subjects in more detail when appropriate.

The covered subjects include:

• Stepping stones and stumbling blocks of mental health
• Self-knowledge
• Emotional and relationship skills
• Support network
• Challenging life situations
• Coping strategies
• Values and attitudes

The content forms a mental health skills and knowledge programme which spans three school years. It gives young people mental health related information, know-how and understanding which they can apply in their present and future life.

The study module encompasses a large number of various work methods. These include:

• Individual and group assignments
• Story-based scenarios
• Action-based scenarios
• Discussions
• Literary and film assignments
• Exercise book assignments
• Integration with various practical and arts subjects and the mother tongue

As well as the Teacher’s Folder, the material includes picture cards, playing cards and a computer game. Teachers also have access to a lecture DVD and themed lecture series which they can use in parents’ evenings and to support their professional competence.

A total of 30 two-day teacher training courses on the mental health study module will be held during 2009–2011. The training courses are aimed at health education teachers in basic education.

The training course supports and increases teachers’ awareness and competence in mental health issues and related methods. It also provides guidance on the use of the teaching materials which are handed out to the participants, free of charge, during the training course.

For more information, please contact:

Elina Marjamäki
Project Coordinator
Finnish Association for Mental Health
Maistraatinportti 4 A FI-00240 Helsinki, Finland
Tel. +358-9-615 51708
elina.marjamaki@mielenterveysseura.fi

www.mielenterveysseura.fi
www.mielenhyvinvoinninopetus.fi