Support beyond high school for those with mental illness

School personnel have many opportunities to assist students and families in preparing for a successful transition to college and careers. Initial high school efforts may include prescreening incoming freshman student files to identify those at-risk and assuring that support services and interventions are implemented quickly. Early supports for students with mental health needs are key to assuring higher graduation rates and building resiliency as they transition to adulthood. For students with Individualized Education Plans, a formal transition plan that identifies long-term goals and supports for reaching those goals as well as an exit summary that includes accommodation documentation can be helpful.