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SUPPORT SERVICES: Mental Health and Psychosocial Support
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Schools will be assisted in establishing a supportive and caring climate, provide psychological and counselling support to students, as students are reintegrated into face to face environment. The following are suggested psychosocial considerations:
Instill full confidence in the procedures developed by the Ministry of Education for schools and in its readiness for the safe reception of students, parents and teaching and administrative staff.
Increase sensitivity among all students, parents, teaching and administrative staff by converting negative thoughts into positive ideas, to reduce tension and anxiety.
Schools are encouraged to develop intervention strategies to address the social and emotional needs of students who show signs of distress, present as a danger to self or others, or teachers and students who are struggling with issues related to the virus and confinement, anxiety or inability to cope upon the return to school.
Care must be taken to avoid stigmatization of students, families, teachers or administrative staff infected by COVID-19.
School counselors should consult with teachers and school administration on school- wide
behavioral needs of students and work with them to provide support.
School counselors should develop internal support systems for staff members who may require assistance to cope with the challenges of working in the new normal environment.
A safe room or safe space should be established by each school to accommodate counseling services for students affected by the virus.
Parents of any student in need of mental health or psychosocial support may reach out for assistance by calling 266 5586, 266 5591 or 266 5514.
Staff in need of mental health and psychosocial support may make use of the counseling services provided by the Ministry of Education.
School leaders should communicate regularly, clearly and accurately, information to staff to ensure that they are kept informed of important developments associated with the virus.
Mental and emotional health professionals are critical in shaping messages to principals, teachers, students and families about school re-entry including addressing anxiety, social acclimation and depression.
Students requiring mental health support, including those who are exhibiting suicidal ideation, should be referred for additional psychiatric services.
School counselors should provide support services for loss of any staff, students,or family.
School counselors should mobilize crisis recovery teams to provide emotional and psychological support when necessary.
If school community has experienced a loss of life, establish
‘safe rooms’ each facility for counseling service provision as needed within
