Breaking Down Barriers: Mental Health Support in Schools
Episode Overview
Importance of reducing stigma around mental health in schools. Benefits of school-based mental health services. Educating parents, school staff, and adolescents on mental health. Recognising early symptoms and addressing them effectively. Forming partnerships between schools and mental health providers.
We want to make it as easy as possible for the teachers and the administration to refer.
Ever wondered how schools can play a crucial role in supporting mental health? This episode of Horizon Heart to Heart dives into the vital topic of reducing stigma around mental health in adolescent care. With guests Dawn Skowronski from Endeavor Health Services and Katie Burby from Horizon Health Services, you'll get a front-row seat to their enlightening conversation about the importance of educating families, school staff, and adolescents on mental health treatment and recognising symptoms early on.
Dawn, who has an extensive career in community-based services, shares her experiences in setting up school-based mental health programmes and the positive impact they’ve had over the years. Katie, with her vast expertise in clinical programme development, discusses the growing need for counselling in schools and how it’s being addressed today. They both highlight the importance of forming partnerships between schools and mental health providers to create a supportive environment for students.
The discussion also touches on the challenges posed by COVID-19 and how it has increased the focus on mental health services in schools. They emphasise the need for parents to be vigilant about changes in their children's behaviour and to keep the lines of communication open. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding how school-based mental health services can help reduce stigma and support adolescents effectively.
Tune in to learn more about the benefits of these programmes and how they are making a difference in the lives of young people.