A new podcast series for classroom teachers hosted by Yale Child Study Center (YCSC) Research Scientist Amanda Dettmer was recently released by the American Psychological Association (APA) Coalition for Psychology in Schools & Education (CPSE). The series is based on a set of written “Mental Health Primers” that Dettmer led, in collaboration with other mental health professionals and experts through CPSE, beginning in 2017.
“We created one-page primers for K-12 educators on a variety of topics related to mental and behavioral health. Over the last year or so, I conducted interviews with the experts who helped author the primers, with the idea that the audio versions would be more accessible to busy educators and could also serve as part of the professional development materials we have developed focusing on the primers,” Dettmer commented. “The podcasts are the audio versions of the printed materials, but in a more engaging, conversation-style format.”
The goal of the primers—both print and audio versions—is to help teachers identify behaviors in the classroom that are symptomatic of mental health and other psychological issues, with the goal of directing them to appropriate resources for the students.
Dettmer added, “I’m really proud of this series because it reflects several years of work, leading a group of diverse psychologists in developing Mental Health Primers for teachers. Teachers are amongst society’s most valuable professionals, and they are often at the front lines when it comes to observing behaviors that may be signs of students needing additional psychological support. These primers – written and audio – are intended not only as a resource to help teachers be on the lookout for such behaviors, but also as a resource for what to do and what not to do if they identify students who may need extra support. Ultimately, the goal is to support teachers in creating and maintaining a psychologically safe space that will maximize engagement and learning.”
Topics of the audio series include a focus on students experiencing race-based hate, stress, sadness, low self-esteem, inattention, bullying, gender identity exploration, and more. All are available to read or listen to on demand on the APA website.
According to the website, “These primers provide information for classroom teachers to help them identify behaviors in the classroom that are symptomatic of mental health and other psychological issues, with the goal of directing teachers to appropriate resources for the students. The intent is not for teachers themselves to treat students, but for teachers to recognize behaviors and provide tangible resources for the students as needed.”