Am J Med Public Health | Volume 4, Issue 1 | Research Article | Open Access

Implementing HEADS Assessment for 10 to 18 Years Old Adolescents Across Six Government Schools in Qatar: A Pilot National Approach of School Health Program to Improve Adolescent Mental Health

Aldahnaim LA*, Dergaa I, Salem AB, Abu Zaid AY, Alsahory AN and Al Abdulla SA

Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), Qatar

*Correspondance to: Layla Abdulla Aldahnaim 

Fulltext PDF

Abstract

Background: Physical and mental health assessments are frequently conducted exclusively within a health care facility or emergency room, where many teenagers seek routine care, reducing the likelihood of detecting mental health disorders in adolescents. The pilot's principle is to assist adolescents to receive specialist help, when necessary, thereby providing mental health care support within the school setting. Aim: The purpose of this study was to (i) conduct mental and physical health assessments in six governmental schools using the HEADS (Home, Education, Activities, Drugs, and Suicide) modified scale and (ii) adopt this assessment as a standardized approach for all public schools in Qatar in order to improve adolescents' health and well-being. Methodology: The study enrolled 45 adolescents from six different public schools. Prior to enrolment, a professional nurse met with the parents to thoroughly discuss the research methodology. Following that, the participants were screened by a professional nurse and then by a psychologist, with the results recorded on an electronic medical recorder. Finally, the physiatrist performs an assessment of the HEADS data. Results: A total of 45 assessments were completed during both phases (22 in phase 1 and 23 in phase 22). Following the assessment, each investigated adolescent was referred to a different clinic or department based on the results of their assessment. Conclusion: Although this study was preliminary, it demonstrated the efficacy of a simple technique for assessing adolescents in school using the modified scale of HEADS. Over a 21-month period, 45 students were assessed and diagnosed with anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues. This emphasis on mental health awareness is consistent with this strategy and would positively contribute to necessary reforms in this area, thereby improving the mental wellbeing of adolescents in Qatar and ultimately resulting in a healthier society.

Keywords:

Psychosocial assessment; Depression; School nursing; School health

Citation:

Aldahnaim LA, Dergaa I, Salem AB, Abu Zaid AY, Alsahory AN, Al Abdulla SA. Implementing HEADS Assessment for 10 to 18 Years Old Adolescents Across Six Government Schools in Qatar: A Pilot National Approach of School Health Program to Improve Adolescent Mental Health. Am J Med Public Health. 2023; 4(1): 1037..

Subscribe to Our Newsletter