Program trains school staff to notice, talk and act to make a positive difference in kids’ mental health

Schools do so much for kids and families. Outside of an academic education, they provide a place for socialization, an outlet for extracurricular activities, a sense of community, and a safe place in which to nourish the bodies and minds of our youth. They’re also one of the best places to notice and serve the mental health needs of kids and teens.

That's why 13 of our employees became certified in the Notice. Talk. Act.® at School program through the American Psychiatric Association Foundation.

This program equips staff in any role at the school to know what to do if they see a normally cheerful child become quiet, unhappy and isolated. Most educational institutions have a school counselor who helps teach students about emotions, may address behavioral concerns and advises kids and families on mental health related topics. But schools likely only have one counselor, and while Heart of Iowa Community Services (HICS) can help train other educators on mental health tactics, students interact with a variety of staff members throughout their time at school.

That’s where the Notice. Talk. Act. at School program comes in. The one hour-long training is meant to help any school staff — from janitors and nutrition services members to coaches and bus drivers — to recognize the warning signs of mental health struggles in kids and adolescents.

Those can include the following warning signs that staff may notice during brief or frequent interactions at school.

• Irritable more often than not

• Seem excessively fearful or worried

• Complain about frequent stomachaches or headaches with no known medical cause

• Do not play with other children or have difficulty making friends

• Obsess over certain patterns, repeat actions, check things many times out of fear that something bad may happen if it isn’t just right

• Shut down emotionally in crowds   

• Lack of interest in people, activities or hobbies they used to enjoy

• Have extreme changes in appetite and activity levels

• Isolate and avoid others

• Significant mood changes

• Talk about or otherwise indicate thoughts or actions of self-harm or suicide

If staff notice one or more of these warning signs, the training equips them to know how to start a conversation with the student, know how to offer help and listen without judgement and to know when to involve the school counselor or other administrative leaders.

“If a cafeteria staff members notices a student who was previously cheerful and bubbly change into one that seems down or is isolating in the lunchroom, they will know what to do,” Darci said. “Through this program, no adult has to feel feel helpless when it comes to kids’ mental health concerns. This gives everyone the tools so they can take action.”