iStock: fizkes
New research from Edith Cowan University (ECU) suggests schools relying on one-off wellbeing surveys may be overlooking students who need mental health support.
The study, led by psychology researcher Dr Shane Rogers, found that tracking students' moods over several weeks, provides a more accurate picture than a single snapshot in time.
"Most schools use a one-off survey, which captures how a student feels on that day," Dr Rogers said.
"But young people's emotions can change quickly. Looking at patterns over time gives a clearer picture of who may actually need support."
The study followed more than 750 secondary students in Australia and the United Kingdom, who completed weekly mood check-ins over six to seven weeks.
While most students showed stable wellbeing, 17 per cent moved above and below the threshold used to flag low wellbeing, meaning a single assessment could misclassify them.
"A single bad day shouldn't determine whether a student is identified as needing help," Dr Rogers said.
"We found repeated mood monitoring provides a more reliable basis for identifying students who may be struggling."
Students were also receptive to the approach, with more than half reporting the check-ins helped them better understand their emotions.
The findings were consistent across both countries, suggesting the approach could be applied broadly across school systems.
New free mood monitoring app available for schools
Dr Rogers said the research highlights the need to rethink how schools screen for mental health challenges.
Following the findings of this research he has developed a freely available app-based solution to support regular mood check-in at schools.
The Monitoring Emotion and Other Wellbeing app is available on the app store for both android and apple devices.
"Rather than relying on a single survey, short, regular check-ins can build a more accurate picture over time," Dr Rogers said.
"This isn't about replacing teachers or counsellors, but improving early identification so support reaches the right students.
"At its core, the goal is simple.
"Make sure the right students are getting help at the right time."
The paper ‘Mood Monitoring in Schools: A promising alternative to single-time-point screening' was published in the journal Environmental Research and Public Health. The study was conducted by Edith Cowan University (ECU), Association of Independent Schools in Western Australia, and the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.
