Background & Aims: Mental health plays a vital role in students' overall development, directly influencing their academic performance, emotional stability, and social interactions. Schools are not merely institutions for academic learning but also environments where students' psychological and emotional well-being is shaped. The concept of a "healthy school" has gained significant attention in recent years as educators and policymakers recognize the importance of fostering an environment that supports students' mental health. This study investigates the impact of the healthy school model, based on educational management knowledge, on the mental well-being of high school students in Noor County. A healthy school environment is one that promotes not only physical health but also psychological well-being. It includes elements such as a supportive administrative structure, effective teaching strategies, positive student-teacher relationships, and programs that address students' emotional and social needs. Educational management plays a key role in shaping such environments by implementing policies and practices that create a balanced and stress-free learning atmosphere. Schools that adopt an effective educational management approach are more likely to provide students with a sense of security, motivation, and belonging, all of which contribute to their mental health. One of the critical factors in a healthy school environment is the reduction of academic stress. Many students experience high levels of anxiety due to academic pressure, competitive environments, and unrealistic expectations from parents and teachers. A well-managed school focuses on creating a balanced curriculum, providing psychological support services, and fostering a culture of encouragement rather than excessive pressure. By doing so, students develop a healthier relationship with learning and experience less anxiety about academic performance. Furthermore, social relationships in school play a crucial role in students’ mental well-being. A supportive school environment encourages positive peer interactions, teamwork, and a sense of community. When students feel included and valued, they are less likely to experience feelings of isolation, loneliness, or depression. Educational management strategies that prioritize student engagement, extracurricular activities, and inclusive policies help build a sense of belonging, which is fundamental to mental health. Another important aspect of a healthy school is the emphasis on resilience and emotional intelligence. Schools that integrate mental health programs, counseling services, and emotional well-being workshops equip students with coping mechanisms to handle stress, setbacks, and emotional challenges. When students learn how to manage their emotions effectively, they become more confident, adaptable, and mentally strong. This not only benefits their academic performance but also prepares them for future personal and professional challenges. The present study examines how the implementation of the healthy school model, guided by educational management principles, affects the mental health of high school students in Noor County. By analyzing various factors such as stress levels, student engagement, academic motivation, and overall emotional well-being, this research aims to highlight the importance of structured and supportive school environments. The findings of this study contribute to the growing body of research on mental health in education and emphasize the need for educational institutions to adopt comprehensive management strategies that prioritize students' psychological well-being. In conclusion, the mental health of students is a critical issue that must be addressed within the educational framework. Schools that embrace a healthy school model through effective educational management can create environments that support students' academic and emotional development. By reducing academic stress, promoting positive social interactions, and fostering resilience, schools can play a pivotal role in shaping mentally healthy individuals. This study underscores the significance of implementing structured policies that focus on students' holistic well-being, ultimately contributing to a more productive and emotionally balanced future generation.
Methods: This research is descriptive in nature and of the survey type. The statistical population consists of 1,975 students from the second cycle of general secondary education, vocational, and technical education. Based on Cochran's formula, a sample of 322 individuals was selected using stratified random sampling according to gender. The data collection tool included a researcher-developed questionnaire on the healthy school model with a focus on educational management knowledge and the Goldberg Mental Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). To analyze the data, structural equation modeling was employed using SPSS21 and LISREL8.5 software.
Results: The results showed that the healthy school model with an educational management knowledge approach has a significant impact on the mental health of students, with a standardized coefficient of -0.73. Additionally, the calculated t-value between the two variables, the healthy school model with an educational management knowledge approach and mental health, was -12.64, which is greater than 1.96, indicating a significant relationship between the variables.
Conclusion: This outcome highlights the importance of integrating educational management principles into the development of healthy school environments. By prioritizing students’ mental health through structured management practices, schools can create supportive spaces that reduce stress, foster emotional well-being, and enhance overall student performance. The negative coefficient indicates that as the application of educational management strategies improves, students experience better mental health, underlining the role of school administrators and educators in shaping positive environments. The study also underscores the need for school systems to move beyond traditional academic approaches and consider the holistic development of students, including their psychological needs. A focus on mental health, supported by an educational management framework, can contribute to more resilient and engaged learners. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge that emphasizes the interconnectedness of educational practices and mental health, suggesting that schools adopting such comprehensive models are better equipped to support students’ emotional and academic growth. In conclusion, the results suggest that integrating educational management knowledge with the healthy school model offers a promising approach to enhancing students’ mental health, which, in turn, can positively influence their academic and personal development. Schools that adopt these strategies can create a more supportive, balanced, and effective learning environment for all students.