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VOL. 11, ISSUE 2 (2026)
The role of school-based mental health interventions in enhancing students’ well-being and academic success at the university of port harcourt
Authors
Celestina Chinwenwa Johnson, Chinedu Kelechi Ukwuije
Abstract
The prevalence of mental health issues among university students has
increased significantly in recent years, affecting both academic achievement
and overall well-being. This study examined the effectiveness of school-based mental
health interventions—including counselling services and mindfulness programs—in
enhancing students' academic performance and well-being at the University of
Port Harcourt, Nigeria. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating
quantitative data from academic records and well-being surveys with qualitative
feedback from students and lecturers. A sample of 400 students and 20 lecturers
participated in a 10-week intervention program. Quantitative results revealed
significant improvements in well-being as measured by the Warwick-Edinburgh
Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS), *t*(399) = 6.78, *p* <
.001, Cohen's *d* = 0.58, and significant reductions in anxiety as
measured by the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7), *t*(399) =
5.92, *p* < .001, Cohen's *d* = 0.57. Academic
performance (GPA) improved significantly, *t*(399) =
4.12, *p* < .01, and absenteeism decreased from 8.5% to 6.2%
(*p* < .05). Qualitative findings indicated that 82% of students
reported reduced stress and improved focus, while teachers noted increased
classroom participation alongside persistent barriers such as stigma and
counsellor availability. The study concludes that school-based mental health
interventions significantly enhance student well-being and academic success. Recommendations
include increased funding for counselling services, teacher training in mental
health first aid, and de-stigmatization programs to promote help-seeking
behaviour
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Pages:22-27
How to cite this article:
Celestina Chinwenwa Johnson, Chinedu Kelechi Ukwuije "The role of school-based mental health interventions in enhancing students’ well-being and academic success at the university of port harcourt". International Journal of Advanced Education and Research, Vol 11, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 22-27
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