186. The Role of School Nurses in Addressing Student Mental Health in Texas Alternative High Schools

Abstract

National data from US mainstream high schools show that mental health symptoms (e.g. sadness, hopelessness, suicidality) continue to be a major problem for adolescents. Alternative high school (AHS) students are at risk for school dropout have disproportionately high rates of these symptoms. As trusted health care providers, school nurses have the preparation to play an important role in addressing mental health issues in adolescents. Little is known about the role school nurses play working in AHSs, including how they address student mental health. In this study, we explored their current mental health practices in the AHS setting.