Lourdunathan, Pamilia and Zainal Abidin, Muhammad 'Adil and Abdul Khaiyom, Jamilah Hanum
(2026)
Mental health literacy intervention among secondary school students: A behavioural science approach through the SEHAT school outreach program.
In: National Conference on Behavioural Sciences in Health, 6-7 May 2026, National Institutes of Health.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Adolescent mental health literacy is a growing public health priority aligned
with the World Health Organization behavioural science agenda. In Malaysia, rising bullying
concerns underscore the need for early school-based interventions, yet help-seeking remains
limited due to stigma. These behaviours are shaped by capability, opportunity, and motivation.
In response, the Selangor State Government introduced the SEHAT School Outreach
Programme, a behaviourally informed intervention guided by the COM-B model.
OBJECTIVE(S): To evaluate the programme’s effectiveness in improving adolescents’
knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to mental health, including readiness to
recognise distress, seek help, and support peers.
MATERIALS & METHODS: A mixed-method quasi-experimental pre–post design was conducted
among secondary school students in Hulu Langat and Klang, Selangor (N = 106). Participants
were recruited via school counsellors, including Peer Support Leaders. The 3.5-hour workshop,
delivered by trained facilitators, comprised three COM-B–aligned modules: mental health
literacy, emotional regulation, and peer support with self-care. KAP questionnaires were
administered pre- and post-intervention. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive
and inferential statistics, while qualitative responses were analysed thematically.
RESULTS: Baseline knowledge was moderate. Mean scores increased post-intervention (Hulu
Langat: 3.73 to 4.26; Klang: 4.03 to 4.29), though not statistically significant. Descriptive trends
indicated improved consistency and higher post-test performance. Qualitative findings showed
increased confidence in recognising distress, willingness to seek help, and readiness to support
peers.
CONCLUSION: The programme shows promise as a behaviourally informed school-based
intervention. Despite modest quantitative gains, qualitative findings indicate meaningful
behavioural shifts. COM-B offers a scalable approach to strengthening adolescent mental
health literacy in Malaysia.
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