FORMATION OF STUDENTS' MENTAL HEALTH THROUGH THE INTEGRATED COURSE «HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELL-BEING» IN THE SUBJECT CYCLE OF EDUCATION

Abstract

The scientific-methodological article explores the relevance of forming students' mental health in the context of modern challenges, in particular war, social instability, and the increasing psychological burden on children. Particular attention is given to the role of the integrated course «Health, Safety and Well-being» in providing psycho-emotional support to learners. The authors emphasize the importance of employing interactive and reflective practices and creating a safe educational environment to strengthen mental health. The article presents a novel development by O. Drozd – the deck of metaphorical cards «Sotnya» (The Hundred), which serves as an effective tool for developing self-reflection, emotional awareness, and personal resilience. It outlines the methodological possibilities of utilizing the deck in individual and group work with students of various ages, as well as during training sessions for educators. The study describes the experience of implementing the methodological component on the formation of learners’ mental health within the framework of activities organized by the Mykolaiv In-Service Teachers Training Institute. These activities were designed for teachers in the social and health-preserving educational field of the State Standard of Basic Secondary Education in the subject curriculum (based on the model program «Health, Safety, and Well-being» by O. I. Shyian, V. H. Diakiv, et al.). The results of the methodological work are summarized, and prospects for further implementation of innovative psycho-pedagogical practices in the activities of regional educational institutions are outlined. The materials of the article may be valuable for teachers, psychologists, and staff of extracurricular educational institutions aiming to implement effective approaches to preserving learners’ mental well-being.