Project SELfit: training socio-emotional skills in a school environment in Porto

Abstract Issue/Problem Mental disorders are the main cause of years lived with disability (YLD) in 5-14-year-old people around world, Western Europe, and particularly Portugal. Young who experience anxiety during childhood have a 3,5-fold likelihood suffering from depression or adulthood. COVID-19 has aggravated this situation, namely regarding socio-emotional competencies. Description problem SELfit, project based on Socio-emotional learning (SEL) methodology, aims promoting mental health, by training teachers community nurses to develop skills students primary schools. The includes theoretical practical/training session, monthly supervision sessions team that psychologist, public health doctor nurses. period implementation is between February July 2022. Results A total 8 13 3 schools Porto enrolled project, which corresponds 272 5 8-year-old. Knowledge literacy, social emotional was assessed, before after session. mean percentage correct answers 49% (54% 45% teachers) compared 84% (92% 78% after. Concerning school students, possible improvement will be evaluated at end (July 2022). Lessons literacy knowledge increased 35%, highlights importance these literacy. By it expected exist an students. This very important implement replicated other Key messages • lost due Portugal; hence, chosen for promotion project. pioneer Porto, involving both teachers, all involved social-emotional context.