As the United States contends with a mental health crisis, schools have been actively working to retain school mental health professionals to support student needs. One of NCSSLE’s Project Prevent (Cohort 2) grantees, Iredell Statesville Schools (ISS) in North Carolina, has expanded their student support staff by integrating school nurses into their mental health support framework.
The Impetus
From the outset, the integration process was organic – rooted in the understanding that nurses often encounter students whose medical visits are prompted by underlying mental health or psychosomatic symptoms. Recognizing this, Iredell Statesville Schools (ISS) began to formally involve their nursing staff as a pivotal component of their student support department. Students often turn to nurses first with their health concerns, a step that feels socially acceptable and free of stigma, like visiting for a headache. Trusting in nurses' medical confidentiality, students are more comfortable sharing issues that may stem from underlying mental health challenges.
Integration
ISS nurses have become a pivotal bridge, working closely with counselors, Student Assistance Programs Counselors (SAP s), social workers, and school-based therapists. By assessing and referring students as needed, nurses not only fortify the support network but also subtly shift the initial focus from mental health to overall well-being. This has been particularly beneficial in serving students from family structures where mental health issues may not be openly acknowledged or understood.
To ensure their nurses are well-prepared for this expanded role, ISS has invested in cross-training with a focus on psychological first aid and trauma-informed practices. This enables nursing staff to identify warning signs and symptoms of mental health issues effectively. The buy-in from nurses has been overwhelmingly positive. They have embraced their role and integration into mental health support, appreciating the importance of early intervention and the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of students in a more comprehensive manner.
What’s Next
Building off the momentum from integrating school nurses into their mental health framework, ISS has big plans to sustain the high level of mental health support they have established. Next steps include continuing to expand cross training efforts so everyone understands the warning signs and symptoms that could be mental health related. ISS also plans to adopt a billing model which will allow their school-based therapists to bill for their services directly. This approach aligns with the practices of their surrounding counties and is a step towards self-sufficiency. To implement this, they are working on the complex process of getting paneled with insurance companies. This involves understanding their requirements and process while also aligning with compliance standards to ensure that they can provide uninterrupted, high-quality care to their students.