Accessing Mental Health Services at School
Because many children and families use public schools as an access point to public health services, the Ohio Department of Education “Each Child, Our Future” strategic plan for education includes strategies to meet the needs of the whole child, inside and outside of the classroom.
Because many children and families use public schools as an access point to public health services, the Ohio Department of Education “Each Child, Our Future” strategic plan for education includes strategies to meet the needs of the whole child, inside and outside of the classroom.
Some of these needs include poverty or chronic hunger, which the state addresses through free or low-cost lunches and summer food service. Schools are now also making efforts to address student mental health.
The Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services says mental health issues play significant role in the levels of education ultimately achieved by Ohio children.
“Children with untreated mental health or addiction problems experience multiple obstacles to learning that often make the difference between whether or not they lead positive, productive adult lives,” the MHAS website states.
The department also highlights evidence that substance abuse issues are appearing at younger and younger ages, and that strategies to encourage positive school climate, as well as increased access to school-based or school-linked behavioral health services, give students a greater chance of success.
Students with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or other mental health issues can appeal to their school district for assistance through federal disability law.
A National Alliance on Mental Illness informational blog outlines the process for seeking mental health assistance through a school or school district.
A school official or a parent may request an independent educational evaluation to determine what, if any, services a student is eligible to receive. A parent does not need to initiate the process, but parental consent is always required.
An IEE can be performed by the school or by an outside professional. Once it is complete, if it is determined the student is disabled according to the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the school and parents can work together to create an individualized education plan.
An IEP is a legal document, enforceable by federal law, and can include accommodations like extended time to complete tests or assignments, access to a distraction-free work room, or preferential classroom seating.
If a student does not have a disability identified under the IDEA, the school can still offer accommodations under a 504 plan.
Under the IDEA, a parent’s rights include the right to an IEE for their child, the right to grant or deny consent to proposed actions a school can take regarding your child’s disability, the right to participate in all meetings and the right to make a formal complaint that must be addressed by the school.
More information on mental health accommodations can be found through NAMI, which has a Geauga office in Chester Township. The organization offers a free six-session course to help families navigate school and mental health systems.
