SAMH mental health e-learning

 School librarians are well aware of the growing concerns about children and young people’s mental health. The recent National Strategy for School Libraries states that “school libraries in Scotland contribute to health literacy, social and mental wellbeing, and provide a safe, trusted space for children and young people to be nurtured” and school libraries do rise to the challenge, whether by providing mental health toolkits, “Shelf Help” or “Reading Well” resources. There are many great projects happening across Scotland, and school libraries provide a safe, nurturing space for our pupils.

However, we would all welcome some more support and training in this area. The Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) has launched a new free e-learning resource ‘We All Have Mental Health’ for school teachers across Scotland. This resource is also available to school librarians - SAMH want to see a whole-school approach, where all school staff are able to support students through mental health challenges. This online training resource aims to equip staff with ‘the skills and knowledge to recognise and respond to pupils who are experiencing mental health problems’ and you can access it at https://www.samh.org.uk/about-mental-health/elearning-for-teachers