Mental health screening in schools.
BACKGROUND
This article discusses the importance of screening students in schools for emotional/behavioral problems.


METHODS
Elements relevant to planning and implementing effective mental health screening in schools are considered. Screening in schools is linked to a broader national agenda to improve the mental health of children and adolescents. Strategies for systematic planning for mental health screening in schools are presented.


RESULTS
Mental health screening in schools is a very important, yet sensitive, agenda that is in its very early stages. Careful planning and implementation of mental health screening in schools offers a number of benefits including enhancing outreach and help to youth in need, and mobilizing school and community efforts to promote student mental health while reducing barriers to their learning.


CONCLUSIONS
When implemented with appropriate family, school, and community involvement, mental health screening in schools has the potential to be a cornerstone of a transformed mental health system. Screening, as part of a coordinated and comprehensive school mental health program, complements the mission of schools, identifies youth in need, links them to effective services, and contributes to positive educational outcomes valued by families, schools, and communities.
Weist
Mark D
MD
Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Center for School Mental Health Analysis and Action, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA. mweist@psych.umaryland.edu
Rubin
Marcia
M
Moore
Elizabeth
E
Adelsheim
Steven
S
Wrobel
Gordon
G
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D003376:Counseling; D006801:Humans; D008403:Mass Screening; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control; D008605:Mental Health Services; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012572:School Health Services; D014481:United States