Development of a mental health counseling clinic to prevent depression in adolescents integrated in schools, Ban Phai School, Ban Phai District, Khon Kaen Province.

Abstract

      This action research aimed to study and develop guidelines for the prevention of depression among students at Ban Phai School, Ban Phai District, Khon Kaen Province, through the integration of collaboration between public health personnel and the school. The study was conducted from January to December 2025. The sample consisted of 60 students in Grades 7–12 who had moderate to severe levels of depressive risk, both male and female, who voluntarily participated in the study with parental consent. The research instruments included the Thai version of the Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents (PHQA), the 8-item Suicide Assessment Questionnaire (8Q), a depression knowledge test, and a satisfaction assessment form for the developed preventive guideline. Analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean ( ), and standard deviation (SD).

      The results revealed that most participants were female (83%), aged 13–15 years (73%), without chronic diseases (87%), and from families with sufficient income (70%). After receiving care under the developed guideline, the proportion of students with severe depression decreased from 18% to 3%, while those with moderate depression increased from 70% to 85%. Suicidal ideation within the past month decreased from 28% to 25%. Knowledge about depression increased from 51% to 81%. Satisfaction with the preventive guideline was at a high level (mean = 4.13, or 83%), with the highest satisfaction in receiving care from knowledgeable and skilled personnel (86%).