An Investigation of Student Mental Health Supports in Florida Public School Districts
Year: 2021
Type: article
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the mental health services being provided to students in the state of Florida, specifically the identification of mental health concerns among students, prevention strategies, and interventions utilized. This study consisted of a document analysis of the Mental Health Assistance Allocation Plans submitted to, and posted by, the Florida Department of Education, for the purpose of developing a grounded theory to standardize the recommended practices in serving the mental health needs of students. Standardized recommended practices that emerged from the analysis included (a)universal screening to identify students demonstrating or developing mental health concerns, (b) establishing consistency within the school/school district and a positive school culture, (c) training faculty, staff, and students regarding mental health concerns and how to support/connect with resources connecting with the community to coordinate care, (d) involving families and parents and collaborate with outside or community mental health agencies; (e) keeping ratios between students and mental health professionals as low as possible in order to maximize direct contact between students and their mental health providers, and (f) information sharing between school districts and community or outside mental health partners and providers, while protecting student information.
Author: Rebecca Carter
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W3194127387