Promoting School Mental Health With a Systems of Care Approach: Perspectives From Community Partners

• NCJ Number: 237159
• Journal: Social Work in Mental Health Volume: 9 Issue: 3 Dated: May-June 2011 Pages: 147-163
• Author(s): Joelle D. Powers, Ph.D.; Kristina C. Webber, M.S.W.; Heatther A. Bower, M.S.A.
• Date Published: June 2011
• Length: 17 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study analyzed the experiences of a large, urban community that has a commitment to mental health and has chosen to address this youth risk factor with a System of Care (SOC) approach.

Abstract

An estimated 20 percent of youth ages 5-18 have a diagnosable mental health problem. The challenge for communities is to overcome obstacles to traditional community-based care that contribute to low rates of treatment for children. The purpose of this small qualitative study was to identify challenges to the implementation of a Systems of Care (SOC) approach to school mental health within an urban community. Identifying processes that either hinder or effectively create and sustain a collaborative SOC partnership between systems is vital to social workers and mental health professionals working to address the mental health needs of underserved youth. (Published Abstract)