San Mateo Union High School District partners with Peninsula Healthcare to enhance mental health services

In a recent meeting of the San Mateo Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo), discussions highlighted significant advancements in mental health services for students within the San Mateo Union High School District, facilitated by a partnership with the Peninsula Healthcare District. The meeting underscored the importance of community collaboration in addressing mental health needs, particularly among youth.

The associate superintendent of the San Mateo Union High School District detailed the district's ongoing efforts to enhance mental health services, which began with a task force established seven years ago. Despite initial challenges in implementing necessary changes, a pivotal partnership with the Peninsula Healthcare District emerged earlier this year. This collaboration has connected the district with experts from Stanford University, including Dr. Steve Adelsheim and Dr. Shashank Joshi, who have provided guidance on best practices and metrics for evaluating the effectiveness of mental health programs.

Over the past year, the partnership has resulted in biweekly meetings that have addressed critical issues such as compliance with health regulations and staff training. Notably, the district has implemented the Cognito training program, which focuses on mental health and suicide awareness, making it a requirement for all staff members. This initiative not only benefits the San Mateo Union High School District but has also been extended to other local schools, demonstrating a broader commitment to improving mental health education across the county.

Ashley McDivitt, a community outreach coordinator for the Peninsula Healthcare District, emphasized the shift from a traditional medical focus to a more holistic approach to health that prioritizes community engagement and lifestyle factors. The district is actively using data from various assessments to identify health needs and gaps in services, fostering collaboration with community partners to develop targeted programs.

The meeting concluded with a strong acknowledgment of the positive impact these initiatives are having on student mental health and the overall community. As the partnership continues to evolve, stakeholders remain committed to using evidence-based practices to ensure that mental health services effectively meet the needs of students and residents alike. The ongoing collaboration between educational institutions and healthcare providers is poised to set a precedent for future initiatives aimed at enhancing community health and well-being.