California school districts prepare for increased mental health service demands

Children will be differentially impacted by the coronavirus pandemic, but many will need additional mental health supports. The Los Angeles Times reports that for many K-12 students, school is the only place where they have access to mental health services. Most public schools will not have enough counselors and social workers to meet the increased demand once students return to campus and expected budget cuts will make expanding these services difficult. California school districts are providing what they can in the short term, including checkins with students, mental health hotlines, and training teachers in mindfulness and stress reduction. #covid-19 #mentalhealth