Recognition, Acceptance, and Implementation of School Etiquette (R.A.I.S.E): Basis of a University-Based Protocol

Abstract

The post pandemic phase all the more heightened the mental health challenges faced by in-dividuals. The surge on mental health related cases such as anxiety attacks, self-harm or suicide during this period underscores the need to safe guard an individual’s well-being, this would include the students. As a response, this study was pursued with the aim of looking into the available resources which can be used to spur the creation of a mental health crisis protocol for the university. The study also looked into the possible barriers which can hinder the implementation of a mental health crisis. Through the descriptive qualitative study, responses from key stakeholders such as student leaders, a professional in the guidance and counseling field and the employees who were often exposed to mental health cases in the school campus, were gathered and analyzed. From the thematic analysis carried out, it was brought to light that the university initiatives that are related to mental health are mostly psychoeducation activities that are implemented by particular offices or trainings attended by particular employees. More so, it was found out that in the school context, mental health is seen as a taboo topic and that culture has fostered the formation of personal philosophies towards mental health. These aspects may inadvertently affect the efficient rolling out of the mental health crisis protocol. Hence, crafting a mental health crisis protocol (MHCP) calls for systematic planning where existing practices and the culture represented in the school community is taken into account. This way, the crafted MHCP does not only capture Sustainable Development Goal 3: good health and well-being in the school context, but would also communicate genuine care and compassion to the student population.