Providing a Port in a Storm: Community Support for Students With Mental Health Issues

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 32
  In Roundtable Session: Partnering to Support Children With Disabilities

Abstract

This qualitative comparative case study examines the impact of social networks on community engagement. Eighty participants (directors of education, superintendents, administrators, teachers, parents, community members) from two districts in a southern Ontario region participated in individual open-ended, 45-minute interviews. Observations were conducted, and documents were collected. Participants reported an increase in students’ mental health issues and limited training. In response, a network linking mental health services across the community was established, and provided services based on each district’s needs. Community organizations also provided professional development for teachers, with strategies for addressing mental health issues in the class. Findings extend research by examining social networks as an important facilitator of administrators’, educators’ and community members’ collaboration to promote student mental health.

Author

• Catherine Hands, Brock University