A Study on the Needs for Mental Health Courses for Middle School Students Based on Qualitative Interviews from Diverse Perspectives

Background Adolescents in middle school face significant mental health challenges during this critical developmental period. Understanding the needs of students, parents, and teachers is essential for designing effective interventions to support their psychological wellbeing. This study explores these needs in selected middle schools in Hunan Province, China, to inform the development of a targeted mental health education curriculum. Methods A mixed methods approach was employed, combining qualitative interviews and quantitative questionnaires. Data were collected from 1,510 students, 1,336 parents, and 200 teachers across multiple middle schools. Results Results indicated a strong, common demand across stakeholder groups for curricula focusing on interpersonal communication and life education. Grade-specific differences emerged, with first-year students primarily requiring support for school adaptation, while second and third-year students emphasized needs related to stress management and emotional regulation. Students expressed a preference for mental health professionals or specialized psychology teachers as course instructors and favored interactive methodologies such as role-playing and scenario-based learning. The findings also underscore the necessity of involving both teachers and parents in the mental health curriculum. Conclusion This study underscores the importance of a structured, school based mental health education curriculum tailored to developmental needs. Given the consistent demand across stakeholders, integrating such programs into middle school education is vital for fostering resilience and emotional wellbeing. Future efforts should prioritize collaboration among schools, families, and community partners to create a comprehensive support system. By embedding mental health education into the core curriculum, schools can equip adolescents with essential coping skills, reduce stigma, and promote long-term psychological health.