Education ministry unveils measures to improve students' mental health

The Ministry of Education introduced a series of measures on Friday to strengthen mental health for primary and secondary school students, aiming to ease academic pressures, cut screen time and foster a supportive environment both at school and at home.

The measures cover 10 areas, focusing on key issues affecting young people's psychological well-being, with emphasis on reducing excessive academic burden and exam-related anxiety.

Schools should strictly control the amount of written homework, avoid punitive or repetitive assignments, and consider introducing a weekly "no homework day". There should be limits on test frequency and difficulty and a complete ban on ranking students based on exam scores.

To ensure a healthier lifestyle, the policy mandates at least two hours of daily physical activity for all students, with schools urged to offer more engaging physical education classes and regular sports competitions. Sufficient sleep is also prioritized, with schools advised to adjust schedules to guarantee necessary rest, including nap time where possible.

Additionally, new measures will enforce a classroom ban on mobile phones and promote "screen-free" time to reduce digital dependency. Online platforms are urged to refine their algorithms, stopping content push that harms students' mental health. The "minor mode" will be strengthened to ensure a cleaner and safer online environment for young people.

Furthermore, special attention will be given to vulnerable groups, including left-behind children and those from single-parent families, with tailored support and regular home visits guaranteed.

The measures call for improved monitoring and support systems through a national mental health monitoring and early warning system which will be established, with annual sample surveys administered. Schools are also required to strengthen their counseling services by hiring full-time mental health teachers and offering regular teacher training.

Moreover, efforts will be made to create a more friendly campus atmosphere and encourage peer support. Schools are also directed to work closely with families, providing parents with guidance on mental health and parenting skills to build harmonious family relationships.