Perceptions of high school teachers on mental health support for learners

Abstract

Mental health among learners has become an increasingly prevalent topic, and understanding the perceptions of teachers on mental health support for learners is very important. Teachers' roles and responsibilities have increased to include identifying, referring and supporting learners with mental health problems. This study explored the perception of high school teachers on mental health support for learners in five schools in the Lejweleputswa District in the Free State. The study aimed to make a positive contribution to the awareness of mental health and the needs of teachers to successfully contribute to supporting learners with mental health problems, by highlighting the needs and the recommendations of teachers regarding supporting learners with mental health problems.

The study adopted qualitative research approach, with an exploratory research approach and a phenomenology research design to describe the perceptions of teachers regarding mental health support. A non-probability, convenience sample of fourteen teachers from five different high schools participated in the study. Data was collected through semi-structured, face-to-face audio-recorded interviews. The data was transcribed, and thematic analysis was used to analyse the data through the identification of themes and sub-themes as outlined by Braun and Clarke (2023). The findings from the study show that there is a need for awareness and training for teachers regarding mental health. Teachers are expected to support learners with mental health and cannot do so without knowledge and skills on how to support learners with mental health problems.

Teachers highlighted that they do not have adequate training and that there are barriers and limitations to the effectiveness of supporting learners with mental health problems. Teachers have recommended the implementation of holistic peer support, professional development, in-house counselling, the involvement of stakeholders such as the Department of Education, and increased awareness of mental health. These recommendations were suggested to ensure that learners are able to receive timely and effective support from teachers.