The aim of this project was to educate teachers on mental health and wll-being in order to help our pupils in emotion and respons control and develop social and self-awareness, positive human relations and responibility. The ultimate aim was to create empowered learners who are able to deal with their disadvantaged position additionally burdened by epidemiologic measures of (self)quarantine, distance learning and economic crisis. By discussing mental health issue, we fought stigma and prejudice and encouraged seeking help and professional advice. We also wanted to empower our collective with emotionally stronger individuals who contribute the community and help others become the best version of themselves. The school helped overcome geographic isolation and inadequate psychological help.
Osnovna škola braće Radića is an elementary school with highland area status which organizes educational process in one central and two branch school buildings. Upper classess are held in single-grade classes while the lower ones are held in combined classes. Our pupils live in a rural, sparsely populated region and are socialy isolated from their peers and friends. They are far from shops, primary helath care and cultural institutions. Our school and three parishes remain the only institutions in the area offering some cultural and social content. Public transport is inadequat and infrequent and socio-economic conditions are poor. Most of our pupils belong to a category of pupils with difficulties due to their educational, social, economic, cultural and language factors. The present studies provide evidence that social isolation, ephasised in schools during the COVID-19 pandemic, has had deleterious effects on mental health leading to mental disorders. In order to provide psychological wellbeing and tools for fighting stress, social isolation, phobias and negative feelings, we have decided to educate our teachers, incorporate mental health into our school and provide support to our pupils.