Promoting Mental Health Literacy Through Multi‐Tiered Systems of Support
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 21354075 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Maiko Xiong (0009-0003-7234-2712, California State University Sacramento California USA, corresponding author), Hogun Lee (California State University Sacramento California USA) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Volume | 96 |
| Issue | 2 |
| Pages | e70104-e70104 |
| Publication date | 2026-02-01 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Journal of School Health (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 0022-4391 • E-ISSN: 1746-1561 |
| Publisher | Wiley (PUBLISHER • GB) |
| DOI | 10.1111/josh.70104 |
| PMID | 41419243 |
| OpenAlex | W4417534939 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 76 |
BACKGROUND: Schools are increasingly recognized as critical settings for promoting student mental health and well-being, yet many lack the systemic structures to build comprehensive and sustainable support. CONTRIBUTIONS TO THEORY: This manuscript contributes to the field of school mental health by proposing the integration of mental health literacy (MHL) within a multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) as a framework for promoting student well-being. While MHL is often delivered as a stand-alone lesson or supplemental program, such approaches limit scalability and sustainability. Embedding MHL into MTSS positions it as both a preventative and instructional priority, ensuring that mental health promotion becomes part of the everyday fabric of schooling. IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL HEALTH POLICY, PRACTICE, AND EQUITY: Future research should examine how integrating MHL into MTSS can be operationalized across diverse school contexts and evaluated for long-term impact. Linking this work to practice is essential to ensure equitable opportunities for all students to build the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for mental well-being. CONCLUSIONS: Embedding MHL across all tiers of MTSS enables schools to move beyond fragmented interventions toward a cohesive approach that advances both educational and public health goals. This integration supports the creation of school environments that consistently foster mental health knowledge, reduce stigma, and promote well-being for all students.
Health literacy · Literacy · Mental health · Mental health literacy · Psychological intervention · Public health · Health Literacy and Information Accessibility · Mental Health Treatment and Access · School Health and Nursing Education
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| Highly cited | No |
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