Mental health counsellors to be compulsory in all CBSE schools

All schools affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education will now be required to appoint trained mental health counsellors on campus, marking a major policy shift aimed at strengthening student wellbeing.

In a recent directive issued to schools, the CBSE said the move is intended to ensure timely emotional and psychological support for students, particularly in the context of rising academic pressure, exam-related stress, and post-pandemic challenges. The board has asked schools to comply with the requirement at the earliest and integrate counselling support as part of their regular academic framework.

According to the guidelines, counsellors will play a preventive and supportive role rather than a disciplinary one. Their responsibilities will include identifying early signs of stress, anxiety or behavioural concerns, offering individual and group counselling sessions, and working closely with teachers and parents to create a supportive school environment.

The board has also stressed that counsellors must have appropriate qualifications and training in child and adolescent mental health. Schools have been advised to ensure confidentiality, sensitivity, and ethical practices while dealing with students.

CBSE officials said the decision aligns with the National Education Policy’s emphasis on holistic development and mental wellbeing. Schools have been encouraged to conduct awareness programmes, life skills sessions, and regular interactions between counsellors and students to reduce stigma around mental health.

With this mandate, the board aims to move beyond reactive measures and build a structured system of mental health support within school campuses, recognising wellbeing as central to learning and overall development.