“Should I involve my son's school social worker in his mental health?”
My son has a lot of issues with his mental health and I noticed him exhibiting signs of depression. He's only in middle school, so I'm worried if something is happening there--like him being bullied. Should I tell my son's school about his mental health? Like his social worker? I'm trying my best at home, but I want to make sure that he's okay at school.
6 Answers
You are right to be concerned about some of your observations. The school social worker seems like the appropriate person to express your concerns to. You may receive referrals for indivual or group counseling for your son. Another place to express your concerns is with his primary care provider. When the time seems right ask your son how he is feeling about himself, his friends and his life. There may be some aha moments for both of you. Find the right balance as a parent, between being a helicopter and distancing. Your son may have insight as to what he needs from you.
Yes, it is a good idea to have the school, primary care and home working as a team to help your son.
Looping a social worker in can help coordinate resources and support for your son while he is in your care and at school.
Hello, Thanks for reaching out. You could definitely speak to the social worker about your concerns so they could observe and possibly speak to him. There could be other things to explore, do yall have open communication at home? Bullying could definitely be something that could lead to symptoms of depression, but it could also be about academics, not knowing who he is yet, making friends, future goals, etc. Please let me know if you have any other questions! Best, Tiffany
Despite school staff being overworked and underpaid, they want to help your child! If your child is struggling with mental health, the school will keep it confidential and they want to offer supports. Your child may be struggling in school, being bullied, coping with depression, coping with a significant loss, or even being abused by someone in the community. School administration does not always communicate cases of bullying to counselors if they are investigating the situation. Due to time constraints, they often do not have the opportunity to follow up with the social worker on each case. However, child and adolescent suicide is on the rise and if you have any inkling that your child may be struggling with sadness or depression, make an appointment with a therapist as soon as possible. In the meantime, try talking to the school counselor to check in on your child; these professionals can often offer the best solutions after meeting your individual child and knowing the resources in your community.
Yes, involve the school social worker. There are generally programs at school are built around children dealing with issues that cause them concern. Middle school is a tough time for boys. They are coming to terms with their sexuality. Their peer group becomes all important, and they are trying to come to terms with who they are and who they want to be.
