Mental Health Literacy and School Behavioral Health: Introduction to the Special Issue

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Mental health literacy is a promising approach to meeting the growing behavioral health needs of youth, and schools offer an ideal setting for this work. Purpose In the introduction to this special issue, we provide an overview of mental health literacy and discuss the connection between mental health literacy and school behavioral health. Methods Literature on mental health literacy and research on school mental health literacy programs are synthesized, followed by an overview of the six papers included in this issue. Results The key components of mental health literacy are defined and contextualized alongside the importance of mental health literacy for promoting well-being. A brief history of research on mental health literacy programs is provided, noting the growth in application to school settings. Discussion Connections between mental health literacy and school behavioral health are discussed, highlighting opportunities for integration with schools’ multi-tiered systems of support. Translation to Health Education Practice This introduction concludes with a discussion of implications for aligning mental health literacy with Health Education.