Health Update: CBSE frames mental-health guidelines; teacher training, exam review, counselling must – What Experts Say

School examination pattern should be periodically reviewed to develop a broader sense of identity among students beyond test scores, ranks, CBSE said.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has asked its affiliated schools to conduct mandatory training for all teaching and non-teaching staff at least twice a year. The board has also asked schools to maintain anonymous records and prepare an annual report, indicating the number of wellness interventions, student referrals, training sessions, and mental health related activities, in a circular sent this week.

The directive from the board follows the Supreme Court’s order setting out guidelines for institutions on students’ mental health and wellness, and social emotional learning.

“All teaching, non-teaching and administrative staff are adequately trained to engage with students in a sensitive, inclusive and non-discriminatory manner,” CBSE said in an official circular. The training will have to be conducted by certified mental health professionals, which will cover psychological first aid, identification of warning signs, response to self-harm and referral mechanism.

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Programmes for parents: CBSE to schools

The CBSE board has also asked schools to regularly organise sensitisation programs for parents on students’ mental health, it said.

“It shall sensitise parents and guardians to avoid placing undue academic pressure, to recognise signs of psychological distress, and to respond, empathetically and supportively,” says the circular.

CBSE Board: Exam pattern, career counselling

The board further states that the school examination pattern should be periodically reviewed to “cultivate a broader sense of identity among students beyond test scores and ranks.”

It has also directed schools to manage extra-curricular activities, including sports, arts, and personality development initiatives alongside studies.

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“Further mental health literacy, emotional regulation, life skills education, and awareness of institutional support services shall be integrated into student orientation programmes and curricular activities. Schools shall provide regular structured career counselling services for students and their parents or guardians,” the circular says.

The board emphasised that the sessions must be conducted by a qualified counsellor and will aim to reduce “unrealistic academic pressure, promote awareness of diverse academic and professional pathways, and assist students in making informed and interest-based career decisions”.