Teachers’ Needs During School Reintegration of Students After Psychiatric Hospitalization

Abstract: This study examined teachers’ needs in dealing with students with mental disorders and in collaborating with hospitals for school reintegration. Survey data from 265 teachers from 13 primary and secondary schools show that most teachers experience challenges working with students with mental disorders and would like to acquire more knowledge and skills. In addition, almost all teachers reported they would like to consult clinical professionals regarding students returning to their classrooms after psychiatric hospitalization. Central aspects of discussion in the additional focus group with school principals were the teachers’ need for more knowledge on how to deal with mental health problems as well as more interdisciplinary collaboration and aftercare. These results indicate that there is a high and unmet need among teachers for further training and hospital–school collaboration in dealing with students with mental disorders. Results can be used to develop tailored support services for teachers in this area.