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Under a Creative Commons license Open access AbstractObjectiveLifestyle preferences are inculcated in childhood and once established, persist into adulthood. The Project PROMoting Health LIteracy in School (i-PROMISe) aims to promote a healthy lifestyle among students for the universal prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes. Study designQualitative study using focus-group-discussions (FGDs) and In-Depth Interviews (IDI). MethodProject was undertaken in two-phases in two private schools in New Delhi, India. In phase-one, FGDs with students (grades IV to VIII) and IDIs with teachers were conducted to ascertain their perceptions of diabetes prevention and management according to the Health Belief Model. The data was analyzed using a thematic framework method. In phase-two, the resources were pre-tested and participants’ feedback was requested on the duration, quality, and understanding of the resources. ResultsIn total, 89 students and 17 teachers participated in phase-one (n = 54 [in FGDs] and n = 5 [in IDIs]) and phase-two (n = 35 students and n = 12 teachers in FGDs). In phase-one, themes that emerged included: diabetes was considered a disease of the elderly; misconceptions about susceptibility to these diseases were common; children were largely aware of measures to prevent these diseases, but barriers to adopting a healthy lifestyle existed. Based on the findings, a comprehensive module was developed, which consisted of a teacher's manual with interactive activities and short films. The resources (teacher's manual and short films) were well received and contributed to a better understanding of diabetes and other NCDs; myths/misconceptions were clarified. ConclusionDevelopment of resources using participatory approach can be effective in promoting and reinforcing healthy behaviours among school going children to prevent and control NCDs in schools. KeywordsDiabetes NCD Health belief model Adolescents Universal prevention Lifestyle behaviors Knowledge India Cited by (0)© 2022 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of The Royal Society for Public Health. Schools also play a role in creating a positive community that enhances a sense of connection and belonging in students. Using a whole school approach, schools can develop a safe and inclusive school environment and promote student mental health and wellbeing. This is best achieved by working in partnership with all members of the school community. Schools can support students to develop:
The Schools Mental Health Menu is a list of endorsed programs, staff and resources across 3 tiers of support. Tier 1 activities form a foundation for Tier 2 and Tier 3. Together, the tiers form layers of support for students. Tier 1 supports remain in place, and schools can add extra supports from Tier 2 and Tier 3 when greater needs are identified. Tier 1: Universal interventionsTier 1 Universal interventions help schools to create a positive, inclusive and supportive school climate, building the preconditions for optimal student learning, development and wellbeing. They are the initiatives and programs schools adopt that are good for all students. Tier 1 Universal activities promote positive mental health and develop all students’ social, emotional and behavioural abilities. Many activities will be documented in the school’s student engagement policy External Link. Activities can be implemented at a school, year, or classroom level. They are usually delivered by school staff. Community organisations or agencies may be employed to deliver some activities. Programs include:
The Schools Mental Health Menu provides a comprehensive information about tier 1 activities (as well as tiers 2 and 3) available to schools. The NIP early intervention approachNIP it in the bud! External Link is an early intervention approach that provides a simple framework for all members of a school community. NIP it in the bud! provides a whole school approach to recognising and responding to early warning signs of depression, anxiety and emotional distress communicated through self-harm. Reviewed 23 November 2022 Why is it important to promote healthy Behaviours?Why is health promotion important? Health promotion improves the health status of individuals, families, communities, states, and the nation. Health promotion enhances the quality of life for all people. Health promotion reduces premature deaths.
Why is it important for students to lead a healthy lifestyle?Research confirms that students do better in school when they are emotionally and physically healthy. They miss fewer classes, are less likely to engage in risky or antisocial behavior, concentrate more, and achieve higher test scores.
How can you promote a healthy lifestyle as a student?Looking after your physical health. Get good sleep. If you're tired, your worries can get blown out of proportion. ... . Eat a healthy diet. Eating a balanced and nutritious diet can help you feel well and think clearly. ... . Exercise regularly. Keeping active can help you improve your mental health.. What is the most important way of promoting the health of children?Provide more access to drinking water. Promote healthy foods and drinks—for example, by pricing them lower than less healthy items. Teach nutrition in health education classes, throughout the school day, and in after-school programs—for example, through school gardens and farm-to-school activities.
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