SCHOOLS ARE A CRITICAL SETTING FOR SUPPORTING STUDENTS' MENTAL HEALTH
National prevalence rates indicate that approximately 20% of children meet criteria for a mental health disorder; however, many children’s mental health needs are not identified and the majority of children with identified challenges do not receive services. Among those who do access care, approximately 70% receive services through their schools.
CHDI helped Stamford and Enfield Public Schools enhance the mental health services and supports available to their students, using an expanded school mental health framework. CHDI conducted an audit of mental health programs for Stamford Public Schools to identify current strengths and areas of concerns. A similar audit conducted with Enfield Public Schools in 2018 led to a set of recommendations focused on trauma informed systems changes. CHDI then worked with Stamford and Enfield independently to implement customized recommendations and develop a comprehensive, trauma-informed system of mental health care, including the evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools (CBITS) model, which has resulted in improved outcomes for students.
Issue Brief 55: Addressing Students' Mental Health Needs: Stamford Public Schools’ Comprehensive Trauma-Informed System summarizes the process and progress made by Stamford Public Schools.
Learn more about free training opportunities, technical assistance support, and resources for schools:
If your district is interested in additional consultation, please contact Jeana Bracey at bracey@uchc.edu.
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Jeana Bracey - Associate Vice President of School and Community Initiatives bracey@uchc.edu 860-679-1524 |
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