Spearheading efforts to bolster mental health support for students and families, the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) has unveiled a pioneering online resource during National Mental Health Awareness Month. The WVDE proudly introduced ParentGuidence.org, a comprehensive 24/7 platform dedicated to nurturing mental health wellness and self-care for families, educators, and caregivers.
Melanie Purkey, WVDE's Assistant Superintendent for Federal Programs and Support, emphasized the significance of this initiative, highlighting West Virginia's pioneering role as the first state to implement such a tool statewide. Recognizing the indispensable role of parents, families, and caregivers in fostering their children's mental well-being, Purkey underscored the resource's aim to empower caregivers with the necessary tools to support their children effectively.
"While schools play a crucial role in students' lives, it's imperative to recognize that students spend a significant portion of their day at home. Therefore, we wanted to provide caregivers with a resource that equips them to address mental health challenges effectively," stated Purkey.
ParentGuidence.org is made possible through a three-year partnership with the national nonprofit, The Cook Center for Human Connection. Additionally, funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) facilitated the initial rollout of the resource across six counties before its statewide expansion.
This online platform offers a myriad of tools and services, including:
Personalized one-on-one parent coaching sessions with cognitive behavioral health coaches.
On-demand parenting sessions led by licensed therapists.
"Ask a Therapist," an interactive forum for frequently updated question-and-answer sessions.
With over 6,000 schools nationwide utilizing the platform, ParentGuidence.org extends its services to more than 3.3 million families across 46 states. Purkey emphasized that educators can also leverage this tool to enhance their support for students.
"In addition to benefiting parents and caregivers, we envision this tool as a valuable resource for educators. It aligns with our commitment to fostering holistic support systems within school communities," Purkey explained.
The urgent need for enhanced mental health support for children and adolescents was underscored by the American Academy of Pediatrics in 2021, declaring a national emergency. Purkey acknowledged that West Virginia, like many other states, grapples with rising rates of depression, anxiety, trauma, loneliness, and suicidality among young people.
While WVDE has long prioritized school-based mental health initiatives, the challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the need for comprehensive support. Purkey noted a significant increase in student anxiety upon returning to in-person learning after prolonged lockdowns, with attendant issues such as absenteeism emerging as prominent concerns.
Despite concerted efforts, West Virginia faces a shortage of traditional mental health services, with long wait times for counseling appointments exacerbating the crisis. Over 700,000 individuals in the state reside in communities lacking sufficient mental health professionals, further underscoring the importance of accessible resources like ParentGuidence.org.
Purkey expressed confidence that the resource would resonate positively with parents and caregivers, offering invaluable assistance in addressing their children's mental health needs. Emphasizing the versatility of the coaching sessions, she encouraged caregivers from all backgrounds to participate in the process.
Additionally, counties have the flexibility to tailor professional development sessions with The Cook Center to address specific needs, including bullying, isolation, and absenteeism, at reduced costs.
For further information, visit wvde.us or ParentGuidance.org.