The fundamental issues related to the mental health and psychological well-being of schoolchildren in Armenia: Current challenges and ways to overcome : Research report

Abstract

The topic of mental health has become relevant worldwide and also has had specific implications in Armenia. It concerns all aspects related to human life, without exception, as well as all ages of a person, considering their characteristics. The attitude towards mental health in Armenia changed dramatically in 2014 when the development and adoption of a strategy based on new ideas and principles were launched. Lamentably, these processes were accompanied by disasters at the global and local levels: the COVID pandemic, war, and security and existential problems. Given the impact of all this on children, the role of schools in maintaining and developing children’s mental health has become a priority. There are new amendments in the law for funding allocated in a school’s budget for the position of a school psychologist, thus allowing all schools to have one. The present study attempts to look at the described situation, the role of the school, and the functions of a psychologist through the eyes of children as direct beneficiaries.