Episode #139. School culture and environment are keys to mental health in young people in schools, Myriad trial result in 85 UK schools. Professor Willem Kuyken, Universi
08/02/23 • 45 min
Professor Kuyken suggests that over the next 50 years that will see mental health and wellbeing become a human right that is fundamental to human flourishing. This requires a public health and societal approach to tackle as from about 7 billion people in the world, of which about a 3.5 billion will at some point encounter mental health problems themselves or with their loved ones. How we think about mental health will be the equivalent of passive smoking ~50 years ago.
Why school culture and not mindfulness curriculum improve mental health in young people in schools. Professor Willem Kuyken, University of Oxford discuss the unexpected findings from the $6 million pound Wellcome Trust published Myriad trial (My Resilience in Adolescence).
Professor Willem Kuyken, a leading expert in mindfulness and psychological science at the University of Oxford published the Myriad trial, showing that the school environment correlated with mental health was the culture and climate and not the mindfulness curriculum as the primary outcomes. A school that has a sense of safety, respect, trust, and overall psychological and physical comfort was found to be associated with better mental health in adolescent students. These factors, changeable in nature, present an interesting opportunity for enhancing student wellbeing.
Interestingly, external factors seemed to contribute more to variations in young people's mental health than factors within the school, suggesting that schools alone cannot shoulder the entire responsibility for mental health interventions. The epidemiological findings from their large and representative study reaffirmed existing knowledge that about one in three young people (ages 11-14) reported significant mental health challenges, with higher incidences among girls than boys.
Professor Kuyken started his career as a scientist who was interested in evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for adults. However, he realized that these individual therapies were not enough to make a major impact on mental health and well being at a population level.
The Myriad Study concluded that mindfulness training did not have a clear advantage over normal school provision or social and emotional learning in promoting mental health and well being among adolescents. However, the study also highlighted some potential benefits and challenges of mindfulness training for teachers in schools, and suggested directions for future research and practice.
https://www.psych.ox.ac.uk/team/willem-kuyken
Kuyken, W. et al & MYRIAD Team Group. (2022). Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of universal school-based mindfulness training compared with normal school provision in reducing risk of mental health problems and promoting well-being in adolescence: the MYRIAD cluster randomised controlled trial. BMJ Evidence-Based Mental Health. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/ebmental-2021-300396
- Covers the primary outcomes of the trial with a focus on the impact on young people.
Kuyken, W. et al (2022). Effectiveness of universal school-based mindfulness training compared with normal school provision on teacher mental health and school climate: results of the MYRIAD cluster randomised controlled trial. BMJ Evidence-Based Mental Health. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/ebmental-2022-300424
- Covers some of the secondary outcomes such as the impact of Mindfulness training on the teachers delivering it and the school climate as a whole.
Subscribe and support the podcast at
https://www.buzzsprout.com/367319/supporters/new
Learn more at www.profselenabartlett.com
Professor Kuyken suggests that over the next 50 years that will see mental health and wellbeing become a human right that is fundamental to human flourishing. This requires a public health and societal approach to tackle as from about 7 billion people in the world, of which about a 3.5 billion will at some point encounter mental health problems themselves or with their loved ones. How we think about mental health will be the equivalent of passive smoking ~50 years ago.
Why school culture and not mindfulness curriculum improve mental health in young people in schools. Professor Willem Kuyken, University of Oxford discuss the unexpected findings from the $6 million pound Wellcome Trust published Myriad trial (My Resilience in Adolescence).
Professor Willem Kuyken, a leading expert in mindfulness and psychological science at the University of Oxford published the Myriad trial, showing that the school environment correlated with mental health was the culture and climate and not the mindfulness curriculum as the primary outcomes. A school that has a sense of safety, respect, trust, and overall psychological and physical comfort was found to be associated with better mental health in adolescent students. These factors, changeable in nature, present an interesting opportunity for enhancing student wellbeing.
Interestingly, external factors seemed to contribute more to variations in young people's mental health than factors within the school, suggesting that schools alone cannot shoulder the entire responsibility for mental health interventions. The epidemiological findings from their large and representative study reaffirmed existing knowledge that about one in three young people (ages 11-14) reported significant mental health challenges, with higher incidences among girls than boys.
Professor Kuyken started his career as a scientist who was interested in evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for adults. However, he realized that these individual therapies were not enough to make a major impact on mental health and well being at a population level.
The Myriad Study concluded that mindfulness training did not have a clear advantage over normal school provision or social and emotional learning in promoting mental health and well being among adolescents. However, the study also highlighted some potential benefits and challenges of mindfulness training for teachers in schools, and suggested directions for future research and practice.
https://www.psych.ox.ac.uk/team/willem-kuyken
Kuyken, W. et al & MYRIAD Team Group. (2022). Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of universal school-based mindfulness training compared with normal school provision in reducing risk of mental health problems and promoting well-being in adolescence: the MYRIAD cluster randomised controlled trial. BMJ Evidence-Based Mental Health. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/ebmental-2021-300396
- Covers the primary outcomes of the trial with a focus on the impact on young people.
Kuyken, W. et al (2022). Effectiveness of universal school-based mindfulness training compared with normal school provision on teacher mental health and school climate: results of the MYRIAD cluster randomised controlled trial. BMJ Evidence-Based Mental Health. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/ebmental-2022-300424
- Covers some of the secondary outcomes such as the impact of Mindfulness training on the teachers delivering it and the school climate as a whole.
Subscribe and support the podcast at
https://www.buzzsprout.com/367319/supporters/new
Learn more at www.profselenabartlett.com
Previous Episode
Episode #138 Universal basic income of $500 per week for the common good and conquer yourself with Everald Compton AC AO, a true champion
What would you do if you were given $500 per week, no questions asked? In this episode, we have the honour of hosting a compelling conversation with Everald Compton, a titan in Australian business, an influential social reformer, and a well-respected author.
Everald has championed numerous causes throughout his remarkable career, but none have been as significant as his advocacy for a Universal Basic Income (UBI). As he unveils the journey that led him to fervently believe in UBI, he paints a vivid picture of a future where economic stability is not a privilege, but a right.
However, our conversation doesn't stop at societal reform. We delve deep into the essence of personal growth, exploring Everald's conviction that the most important lesson in life is learning how to conquer yourself. As Everald unfolds his wisdom, he shares how mastering self can lead to personal success, fulfilment, and ultimately, a positive impact on the world.
In a blend of societal innovation and profound personal insight, this episode promises to challenge your perspectives and inspire you to reflect on your role within society and your journey of personal growth. Whether you're intrigued by the concept of UBI, committed to personal development, or interested in the journey of a notable figure like Everald Compton, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that bridges the gap between personal transformation and social reform.
https://everaldcompton.com/my-articles/
Subscribe and support the podcast at
https://www.buzzsprout.com/367319/supporters/new
Learn more at www.profselenabartlett.com
Next Episode
Episode #140. Joy in Schools. How to make safe, calm and connected schools in our communities with John Bray, Chief Enthusiasm Officer & Principal Dunwich School, Minjerribah
A joy filled conversation about how to reimagine education systems and its role in community with John Bray, Chief Enthusiasm Officer and Principal of Dunwich School. John has an unwavering commitment to crafting safe, calm, and connected schools, Bray's innovative approach to co-designing educational spaces with the community.
He has a pedagogical philosophy that emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing cultural nuances and practices, most notably the powerful practice of silence. Let silence do the heavy lifting, as we sit in circles together. We explore how such practices can enhance the learning experience, raising teacher awareness while simultaneously empowering students.
It is essential to provide the time and space necessary for both teachers and students to grow, learn, and adapt. His focus on a minimalist approach – taking things away and changing practices – allows for an environment that truly facilitates and enhances student's learning.
It is about creating an educational climate that is safe, calm, and connected. The importance of attentive and active listening, stressing that we must strive to understand, rather than simply waiting for our turn to respond. It is about embracing cultural diversity in his school, nurturing an environment where every voice is heard and valued. It is intentional welcoming of students into the school everyday and saying see you tomorrow when they leave. It is about making everyone feel safe.
The power of silence plays a pivotal role in Bray's approach. Hear about the transformative role that a simple circle of silence can play within a local community and the potential it holds for fostering stronger, more empathetic ties.
John helps us redefine what it means to design schools for a connected, empathetic, and thriving future.
Subscribe and support the podcast at
https://www.buzzsprout.com/367319/supporters/new
Learn more at www.profselenabartlett.com
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