The World Health Organization (WHO) conceptualizes mental health as a “state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community (WHO).” Mental health involves effective functioning throughout daily living that leads to productive activities, healthy relationships, adaptability, and dealing with challenges. Mental illness is a collective term referring to all diagnosable mental disorders involving changes in emotion, thinking, or behavior. These are associated with distress and impairment in functioning, be it in the familial, social, educational, or occupational dimensions (American Psychiatric Association). Mental disorders have a huge impact on morbidity, disability, and premature mortality. Moreover, the stigma and discrimination associated with mental disorders add to the burden of the disease. Training Module on the Right to Mental Health in the Academe Mental Health The youth are not spared from this burden as several mental disorders have their onset in adolescence and early adulthood. The increasing number of cases among the youth and rising cases of suicide attest to this fact. Mental health conditions are among the leading causes of illness and disability for this age group, with suicide being the fourth top cause of death in people aged 15- 19 years old. Thus, early adolescence is integral in the prevention of mental health conditions and the promotion of positive mental health. Corollary to this, the academic environment plays a pivotal role in mental health. Teachers are among the most influential persons in an adolescent’s life, with enormous potential to create and sustain a healthy environment. They guide the students in developing their social and emotional skills and assist in promoting mental health. These skills will serve them well as they face different challenges in their academic, social, and family life. 2