Recovery and Response: Responding to Mental Health Needs That Emerged in the Wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Chicago Public Schools*

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic elevated mental health needs among students. As such, in 2022 Chicago Public Schools (CPS) introduced the Comprehensive Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Policy to deliver mental health awareness and services to all pK-12th grade students. While transitioning back to in-person learning, an evaluation was conducted in the 2022-2023 school year to identify current practices and barriers of delivery, and identify lessons learned to support the policy in schools. Methods: Interviews were conducted with 30 staff members who delivered mental health services. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and thematically coded. Results: Themes identified in the interview highlighted barriers to providing mental health supports included: 1) overwhelming number of mental health cases with limited time and capacity; 2) mental health stigma among families and staff, and 3) the lack of diversity representation among mental health professionals in schools and the communities. Implications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity: CPS prioritized and elevated awareness of resources, training sessions and policies guidance through toolkits, newsletters, mandated trainings, and communication about new state mental health laws. Conclusions: The pandemic disrupted mental health services and illuminated critical barriers to access. CPS' Office of Student Health and Wellness used these findings to provide additional training and technical assistance for staff, families, and the community.