New research from Rutgers CESP examines whether universal depression screening in secondary schools is a feasible and effective response to growing mental health concerns among students. Drawing on survey and interview data from school-based mental health professionals across New Jersey, the piece highlights both the promise of screening and the practical challenges to implementation.
Written by Belal Jonaid
Students’ mental health has become a topic of increasing concern across the country. As educators and policymakers grapple with the issue, new research from Rutgers University’s Center for Effective School Practices (CESP) offers important insights into universal adolescent depression screening as a possible solution.
In their report, CESP researchers surveyed 70 school-based mental health professionals as well as interviewed a more select group of specialists including school counselors, instructors, and child study team members.
Findings show both groups perceived adolescent depression to be increasingly common in New Jersey secondary schools. 62% of school psychologists and social workers surveyed reported student depression was common in their schools (Figure 1). Of the interviewees, 80% stated depression was a growing issue in their districts.
These findings become more concerning when we consider practitioners’ views towards the inadequacy of current methods used to address student mental health. Most respondents reported that depression screening was not practiced in their districts. Furthermore. interviews reveal that at institutions where screening was practiced, there was a notable lack of established procedures and guidelines.
Universal Adolescent Depression Screenings: A Viable Fix?
One proposed solution: universal adolescent depression screenings, implemented in secondary schools as part of a multi-tiered support system. In a school setting, such screenings can be more widely accessible across demographic and regional lines in a way primary care settings might not be. A universal approach also gives practitioners a chance to catch symptoms earlier than more reactive screenings.
When asked about universal adolescent depression screenings, a promising 82% of surveyed practitioners believed the approach to be backed by research (Figure 2). A further 87% agreed that these programs would be feasible at their institutions, with 86% stating they could be helpful in identifying students struggling with depression.
Implementation, however, is key. Practitioners expressed concerns regarding potential barriers to effective universal screening. For instance, a majority of respondents believed limited time and resources, logistical difficulties in providing follow-up services, and the absence of standardized tools posed major challenges. Specialists who were interviewed stated that clear guidelines from policymakers would be necessary to help institutionalize depression screening and establish clear protocols.
Practitioners Informing Policy
The views of practitioners on the frontlines of an adolescent mental health crisis provide key insights for administrators and policymakers. Growing concerns from professionals regarding student depression highlight the need for policy addressing the issue. Worries regarding potential obstacles can also inform our efforts. These concerns point to the fact that in order to be effective, any set of policies mandating universal depression screening would need to establish clear protocols governing such programs.
Prioritizing student well-being as part of every school’s mission remains a major challenge for educators and administrators today. As long as this is so, listening to practitioners on the ground can help us ensure every student has access to the support they need to learn and thrive.