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Reports and Publications ::
2003 Report
Status of 2001 Recommendations - School Based Mental Health
The Partnership recommended that the Schools and DHS increase the level of qualified mental health support available to students; and train school staff, parents and students in recognizing and responding to signs of anxiety, depression, or suicide ideation. The results of the Partnership's 2003 survey of 3400 Arlington youth further emphasized the need for these services: levels of depression and suicidal thoughts among Arlington youth are significantly higher than the national average.
Status: In Fall 2003, four new DHS mental health therapists began providing onsite mental health assessments, referrals, and therapy to students and families at four elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. They are also expected to assist parents and staff in recognizing and responding to depression and suicide prevention in these school communities. This represents a continuation of the Youth Matters Initiative begun through grant money in FY 03.
As discussed in earlier sections of this report, staff at all middle and high schools and several elementary schools have been trained in suicide prevention. There needs to be continued discussion on how to ensure mental health training and support for parents and students in the other school communities.
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