The trial to evaluate the mental health service in a preparatory school

Abstract

To evaluate a mental health service in a school, we utilize the method of process evaluation. Process evaluation includes questions about implementation of program operations and how much the service carries out its intented functions. We assess whether the program implements its plan. To evaluate how much the progrom reaches its intended functions, we analyze the outcomes of the service. The service implements 6 programs; 1) setting of mental health counseling rooms, 2) to collect the data of mental health in students population, 3) interaction with school staffs and mental health counselors, 4) mental health education, 5) emergency service and 6) to cooperate with mental health clinic in a community. These program have 6 intented functions; 1) to take care of difficult cases for school staffs, 2) suicide prevention, 3) to release emotional problems interfering with study, 4) program coverage of target population, 5) to cope with main complaints of difficulties with concentration and 6) to deal with students who need psychiatric medical care. The evaluation of implementation indicates that all program implemented to a moderate level. However the level to carry out its intended functions is not sufficient concerning coverage of target population (purpose 4). Since a school has various educational programs, we should develop comprehensive program evaluation strategies to evaluate mental health service in a school.