TW: This story mentions suicidal thoughts. Please use discretion before reading further.

On November 28, we’re calling for a united effort to combat the youth mental health crisis. It’s called #pathtoPATHtuesday.

United Way’s PATH program is there when local students need mental health care. One PATH provider from Catalpa Health shared,

“I began meeting with an 8-year-old boy who identified that he was having thoughts of ending his life. He had aggressive behaviors towards peers when upset. After several months and learning coping skills, the boy denied thoughts of suicide and had no other incidents at school.”

This story of struggle and hope is not unique in the Fox Cities. We have the opportunity to move the needle with access to mental health care. 50% of all lifetime cases of mental illness begin by age 14, and 75% by age 24.

The PATH program provides mental health therapy in schools for these local students who cannot obtain care at community clinics.

Why mental health in school?

• After the initial appointment, parents do not need to take time off work or find reliable transportation to take their child to an appointment. Services are delivered regardless of ability to pay, but private insurance is billed whenever possible. Services include: assessment, treatment, case management, and discharge planning.
• School is a safe and accepting environment, so parents and students are more comfortable with the care. Individual student records are confidential, and information is not shared with school staff without parent consent.
• Collaboration among providers reduces waiting lists.
• Onsite therapy provides a greater opportunity for care coordination, case management, and reduces missed appointments and missed classroom time.
• Onsite therapy encourages self-referrals or referrals by peers. Common issues include: depression, anxiety, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, and relationship issues.

Are you with us?

Every gift you make to United Way Fox Cities on November 28 will help the students you know to access the barrier-free mental health care.

Click here to rally with your neighbors this #pathtoPATHtuesday.