 |
This Web site is a component of the SAMHSA Health Information Network. |
|
A Guide for Intermediate and Long-term Mental Health Services
After School-related Violent Events
Summary
This guide is intended to assist school communities across the country in preparing for and coping with the mental health effects of school-related violent incidents of a criminal nature. Unfortunately, the number and variety of such incidents has been increasing in recent years, and it is important to be as prepared as possible.
Research in this field is not yet definitive, but expert consensus points to several conclusions:
- Mental health services should be available to students, staff and families after a school-related violent event
- Teachers, while serving a crucial, front line role, should not be required to provide mental health treatment
- Community agencies should work in partnership with school administrators and staff
- Mental health services should be available for those in need through all phases of recovery
- All stakeholders should be involved in planning for and responding to a school-related violent event, in appropriate roles and settings
There are many ways these goals can be met, and the specifics should be locally determined, but establishing three committees, each with a specific task, and all composed of representatives of pertinent stakeholder groups, can assist in the organized delivery of services. The Immediate Services Working Group is primarily concerned with emergency services and triage. The Community Advisory Working Group makes sure all stakeholders are served and ensures a smooth transition from the immediate phase to the intermediate and long-term phases of recovery. The Mental Health Provider Working Group provides a framework for school and community practitioners to address mental health needs in partnership throughout the recovery process.
Cooperation among all those affected is the most important element of a successful recovery process. During the preparatory phase, which is not a distinct time period but a constant state of readiness, the necessary infrastructure and relationships are developed. Then, if an incident does occur, everything that is needed for the immediate phase is readily available. The transition from the immediate to the intermediate phase can be relatively smooth, because frameworks are in place to make sure everyone affected is served. The transition to the long-term phase can go just as smoothly. With solid preparation and dedicated partnership, recovery, while always challenging, can be minimally so.
More research is needed to determine which specific mental health treatments and delivery systems are most effective after a school-related violent incident, but this guide, based on the research already available and the opinions of a wide range of experts, should provide school communities with a useful framework for developing appropriate recovery strategies.
Previous | TOC | Next
|
|
