TO HELP spot students who may be clinically depressed or are at risk of being depressed, some teachers are now receiving training from full-time school counsellors.

The Education Ministry started a pilot programme with several schools so that teachers can learn to spot symptoms of depression in students and look out for behaviour that may lead to depression.

After the pilot programme ends this year, it is likely to be rolled out to all schools.

Mr Masagos Zulkifli, Senior Parliamentary Secretary (Education), said this in Parliament yesterday in response to questions from Nominated MP Paulin Tay Straughan on what was being done to alleviate incidences of depression among students.

He also explained the ministry's other approaches to helping students, including working with school counsellors, the Health Promotion Board and mental health professionals.

MARIA ALMENOAR

This article was first published in The Straits Times.