Work

Debate: Where to next for universal school‐based mental health interventions? Universal versus targeted school‐based mental health interventions: a health economic perspective

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Mental health problems in schools are a concern and various initiatives have been developed to address these. Interventions can be universal (covering a whole school) or targeted (addressing those with specific needs). Any new intervention should be evaluated, and this should include an assessment of cost-effectiveness. Evidence to date suggests that while gains from universal schemes may be modest, they can still be cost-effective given the extent of their reach. However, targeted interventions can address key health inequalities which should also be an objective of an economic evaluation. Studies that have examined the longer term impact of both universal and targeted approaches have demonstrated that both can represent good values for money, and it is likely that a blended or tiered approach is appropriate.

Source: Child and Adolescent Mental Health

DOI: 10.1111/camh.12751

Author: Paul McCrone

Institution: University of Greenwich

Language: English

Topic: School Health and Nursing Education

Subfield: Speech and Hearing

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,350