this reactionary response . Prevention is key , not paperwork . Need teachers , guidance counselors , social workers working as a team .”
• “ Youth recovery services are needed .”
• “ School psychologists are too busy doing the testing – need two , one for testing and one for guiding portion . Emotional and social and behavioral issues are key . If kids don ' t feel safe , they won ' t learn .”
Examples of Potential Interventions for Stage 3
• Establish mentoring and access to care programs to provide case workers / mentors for disadvantaged youth ( e . g ., “ JUMP ” programs ,
https :// ojjdp . ojp . gov ; or others ).
• Expand school-based support to help kids with developmental disabilities .
• Update Baker Act procedures and protocols to address youth-specific situations ( in coordination with Public Safety , schools , and others .
• Review policies that limit services for children with autism .
• Add mental health career paths to the school curricula .
• Expand UthMpact and StandUP Polk Coalitions ( www . uthmpact . org / about-us ). Action Area : First Responders
While traditionally not a population that comes to mind to require special services , the needs of first responders have gained additional attention during the COVID-19 pandemic , exacerbated by the social “ Defund the Police ” movement occurring across the country .
Putting one ’ s life at risk has always been “ part of the job ,” yet the mental health needs of those serving as police , firefighters , EMS , and others needs additional care from those that they serve . 23
• “ Tons of obstacles to overcome – fear of retribution , fear of being diagnosed with PTSD and getting fired , confidentiality .”
• “ They don ’ t seek treatment early , so when they do it ’ s overwhelming .”
• “ Education is # 1 to breaking the stigmas .”
• “ Military vets are told twice not to speak up – once in the military and then again in their first responder role . They ’ re not told directly , but it ’ s part of the culture .”
• “ It ’ s hard for females in a male-dominated workforce .” Examples of Potential Interventions for Stage 3
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Note : Some school social workers are strongly discouraged from seeking behavioral health care since there is a perceived risk that they may lose their license or that their job may be endangered .
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