School-Based Screening for Mental Health in Early Childhood

Abstract

(from the chapter) Epidemiological data indicate that mental health problems affect approximately 15-25 % of school-aged children in the United States; yet only 20 % of youth in need receive mental health services. Without appropriate screening and early identification procedures, children's mental health problems are often left untreated. This is concerning, given that unmet mental health needs often lead to debilitating long-term outcomes such as below grade level achievement, school absenteeism, suspensions or expulsions, low graduation rates, and unemployment. Additionally, when youth with mental health problems do not receive appropriate treatment, they are at elevated risk for later conduct problems, delinquency, and severe mental health problems. Thus, there is a significant need for evidence-based screening and early identification practices in schools. A current evidence and practice associated with universal screening for mental health problems in schools is offered in this chapter and serves as a guide for the key processes of planning, implementation, and follow-up services. Our review indicates that many gaps within this body of research still exist. There is a need for an increase in active partnerships among schools, universities, and other community organizations to undertake the research goals outlined in this chapter. Data provided by such partnerships hold the key to developing empirically supported guidelines for all phases of the universal screening process. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved)