BEIJING, May 15 (Xinhua) -- Parents and schools should pay close attention to and intervene in time to help young students overcome mental health issues when returning to school amid the epidemic, a psychologist said Friday.

Chen Xuefeng, who is with the Institute of Psychology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, told a press conference that it could take some time for students to adapt to the new situation and environment after having studied at home for a long time.

Chen called on parents, teachers and students to prepare well for the psychological adjustments, especially for students facing graduation.

For severe mental health issues, she stressed the urgency in locating the real cause and prompt intervention, such as seeking professional help.

The Ministry of Education said Tuesday that more than 100 million students have resumed classes in Chinese schools, accounting for 39 percent of all the students nationwide, from kindergartens to universities. Enditem