Hur gymnasieskolor arbetar för att främja elevers psykiska hälsa : En kvalitativ intervjustudie med skolledningar i Västerås

Background: The number of young people who suffer from mental illness increases in society. Preventive and health-promoting efforts are needed in schools to strengthen and maintain youth mental health. Theoretical models that can be linked to the area are the SESAME model and Empowerment used in health promotion work. Aim: The aim of the study is to investigate the health-promoting work regarding students mental health and the school leaders' perception of the students' mental health, in upper secondary schools in Västerås. Method: A qualitative study has been conducted with semi-structured interviews. The selection consists of four principals in upper secondary schools in Västerås. The material has been analyzed with a manifest content analysis. Results: There are many students who suffer from mental illness and the schools work in different ways to create a safe school environment for the students. Many initiatives are carried out for preventive and remedial purposes. Conclusion: The perception of students' mental health and the health work carried out at the schools may indicate the need for more health promotion and collaborations in schools