DETROIT (WWJ) University of Michigan (U of M) and Detroit Public Schools (DPSCD) are joining forces to address the mental health needs of DPSCD students.
A newly released report—with the data collected pre-pandemic—found that more than half of DPSCD students reported suffering from anxiety and depression, while nearly 25% reported feeling suicidal within the past year.
The survey included more than 11,000 8th-12th grade students, nearly 3,500 staff members and 800 families.
The needs assessment will be the first step in a multiyear partnership between U of M and DPSCD to provide mental health care to students at more than 100 Detroit public schools as a part of its 2020 Blue Print, Whole Child Commitment—to address "social and emotional development of its students in addition to physical health and academic readiness."
"We recognize that the ability of students to take full advantage of educational opportunity requires that we create a foundational culture of health and wellness throughout each and every one of our schools," DPSCD Superintendent Nikolai Vitti said in a release. "This assessment provides an unprecedented view of the well-being of the district and the priority needs identified by our community."
The school district, Youth Policy Lab and U of M's TRAILS came together to complete the assessment.
"TRAILS (Transforming Research into Action to Improve the Lives of Students) is a school mental health program designed to increase youth access to evidence-based mental health services. It provides professional development, resources and implementation support to school partners in effective practices that are appropriate for the school setting, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness," the release read.
The TRAILS program has so far partnered with 350 schools across Michigan, reaching an estimated 90,000 students.
The full results of the survey were:
"Reported rates of depression and anxiety symptoms, and suicidal ideation among DPSCD students far exceeded national averages.
23% reported having seriously thought about attempting suicide in the past year.
31% reported thoughts of suicide or self-harm in the past two weeks.56% reported symptoms of anxiety.
62% reported symptoms of depression.
Depression and anxiety symptoms were found not to impact students equally: Girls had higher rates of depression and anxiety than boys.
Nearly half of sexual and gender minority youth reported suicidal ideation.
Academic stress was the top mental health concern identified by students, followed by anxiety, depression and family stress.
A substantial number of students with symptoms of anxiety and/or depression reported not having ever accessed any school- or community-based mental health support services.
The most common barriers to seeking mental health services cited included a preference for coping with difficulties on their own, a belief that available services would not be helpful, and embarrassment/shame/stigma.
Students with depression, anxiety and exposure to trauma were more likely to report chronic absenteeism and difficulties completing schoolwork or studying. Rates of disciplinary involvement were also significantly higher among students with depression, anxiety and exposure to four or more traumatic events."
The results also revealed that most teachers and staff want to help their students, despite high rates of mental burn out.
"Given the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on communities of color, the need for mental health support for Detroit students is even greater now," Co-director of Youth Policy Lab, Robin Jacob, said.
The U of M/DPSCD partnership is anticipated to help students participate more meaningfully in school, improve attendance and academic performance, engage in fewer noncompliant and high-risk behaviors, remain in school longer, and benefit academically.
