Mental Health-Sensitive School Concept Note

Abstract: Ukrainian schools face unprecedented mental health challenges arising from the cumulative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, longstanding systemic gaps, and the ongoing full-scale Russian invasion. These pressures have intensified emotional distress among students and highlighted the need for structured, school-based mental health support. In response, the Mental Health-Sensitive School (MHSS) Concept Note was developed to integrate prevention, early support, and mental health promotion into everyday educational practice. The MHSS framework was created through a multiphase process involving evidence synthesis; stakeholder consultations with educators, psychologists, students, and parents; expert validation; and iterative refinement. The resulting model is grounded in five principles – systemic, needs-centеred, leveled, best-practice, and competence-based support – and is operationalized through the Mental Health at School Pyramid and a 10-step Implementation Roadmap. The article outlines the structure and rationale of the MHSS framework and presents early implementation activities, including the development of an online course and practical toolbox, and pilot testing in selected schools. Overall, the MHSS framework provides a scalable, context-sensitive approach to improving the well-being of students and staff in Ukrainian schools. It offers a clear pathway for embedding mental health into policy, school culture, and daily routines, supporting long-term resilience during wartime and beyond.