HOW TO OFFER RED FLAGS IN YOUR SCHOOL
A Comprehensive Childhood and Adolescent Depression Awareness Program for Schools
In a study recently completed by the University of Akron, The Red Flags program now in its seventh year, was shown to be beneficial regardless of how it was implemented in schools; however, the more fully it is implemented the greater the positive effect. "There is a positive short and long lasting effect that leads students to seek help from a teacher or counselor for themselves or a friend."
The Red Flags Program is a school based depression awareness and intervention program developed by MHA-Summit County, under the auspices of the Ohio Department of Mental Health. It is endorsed by the Ohio Department of Education for all Ohio middle schools or schools with grades 5-8. The program is three pronged, with materials for students, school staff, and parents.
The student portion consists of a video, Claire's Story, and a syllabus for three to five 45 minute classroom periods. The objective of the student portion is to help students understand mental illnesses as treatable brain disorders, and recognize the warning signs. They learn how to access help for themselves or their friends and are given a language with which to speak about their emotions.
Materials for teachers include the video, a power point presentation, a 9 minute DVD introducing the essential elements of a school protocol, reproducible informational materials, and a check list to assist in identifying students who may be at risk. Schools are encouraged to develop a protocol for identifying and referring at-risk students for evaluation and possible treatment. Materials also offer simple suggestions and tips for helping students and teachers in the classroom to reduce stress and create an environment for ideal learning. Technical assistance and training are provided to those implementing the program.
Materials for parents include a booklet highlighting symptoms and related disorders as well as suggestions for accessing help.
Furthermore, the study found that implementation of the Red Flags program has a significant positive effect on school climate, school satisfaction, emotional intelligence and overall knowledge. In essence "Red Flags was perceived to be positive, flexible and a low cost educational program." For information on Red Flags in Illinois or Erika's Lighthouse contact Peggy Kubert at pkubert@aol.com
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