SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING: A FRAMEWORK FOR ENHANCING MENTAL HEALTH AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELLNESS IN SCHOOLS

Social-emotional learning (SEL) has emerged as a crucial component of modern education, addressing the mental health crisis among children and adolescents. This paper explores the definition, theoretical framework, and empirical evidence surrounding SEL, aiming to illustrate its impact on mental health and psychological wellness in school settings. By reviewing existing literature, we highlight how SEL fosters emotional resilience, enhances social skills, and promotes positive relationships among students. Furthermore, we discuss the implementation of SEL programs, the challenges faced, and the implications for future educational policies. Findings indicate that a structured SEL approach can significantly contribute to students’ overall well-being, making it an essential domain for holistic education.