Source: Globe News Wire
Topic: Data Collection/Evaluation, Inclusive Language and Culture, Mental Health/Health
Population Focus: LGBTQ Youth, Transgender and Gender Nonconforming
A study conducted by GLSEN, Supporting Safe and Healthy Schools for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Students, was drawn from a national online survey of 1,741 school mental health professionals (SMHPs) – which included school counselors, psychologists, and social workers – in U.S. schools (grades 5-12). Data found that 87% of counselors, psychologists, and social workers believe it is their responsibility to provide counseling to LGBTQ students, yet 37% received little to no related training. To address this issue, GLSEN makes recommendations that include: improving SMHPs’ graduate education curricula by including more LGBTQ-related content; encouraging school districts to hire sufficient numbers of SMHPs to address the needs of LGBTQ students and their families; and advocating for adequate funding for school mental health services at both the state and the federal levels. Key infographics for social media and reports may be found here.