Understanding and Enhancing Student Mental Health and Wellbeing across Educational Systems: A Comprehensive Review.

Abstract

This thorough review delves into the complex aspects of student mental health and well-being within educational systems, focusing on the ecological interactions of personal, family, school, and community influences. This underscores the heightened vulnerability during educational transitions and the profound effect of mental health on both academic and social outcomes. The review assesses systemic frameworks, including policy changes such as India's National Education Policy 2020, and evaluates multi-tiered strategies for promoting mental health, including individual interventions, comprehensive school approaches, community collaborations, digital resources, and policy measures. It discusses the challenges encountered by students and educators, the role of physical and social environments, and innovative and inclusive practices. Additionally, the review considers global and cultural viewpoints, the significance of early intervention, healthy lifestyle habits, and emerging normative rights-based considerations. The findings highlight the necessity of integrated, culturally aware, and ongoing interventions to create supportive educational settings, diminish stigma, and improve student well-being across various contexts (Johnson, 2025).