TeleHelp

The purpose of the TeleHelp program is to increase early identification of depressive symptoms that may adversely impact academic performance.

TeleHelp Services

• Training school leaders and staff in early detection of depressive symptoms and related concerns
• Online resources to support children and loved ones at the Connected Kansas Kids Web site
• Telemedicine consults with an interdisciplinary team

Training Sessions

TeleHelp can work with you to tailor informational programs for your school's individual needs.

• Day-long depression workshops at the University of Kansas Medical Center
• Two- to Three-hour educational sessions for school staff concerning youth depression
• Educational sessions of any length on diverse subjects, such as depression, educational compliance with "Section 504" and "IEP" requirements, and bullying behavior
• Brief talks, lasting about of 15 to 30 minutes, outlining the TeleHelp program and how we can serve you

Did you know ...

• By age 18, about 20 percent of youths will experience a depressive episode
• Symptoms of depression include changes in mood, energy, concentration, sleep, eating and social relationships
• Children with depression are often very grumpy or irritable, and many have physical complaints
• Untreated depression causes poor concentration, which results in:
  • increased school absenteeism
  • school failure
  • poor daily work
  • decreased test performance
• Chronic illness, traumatic experiences, and injuries often go along with mood symptoms
• Anxiety, ADHD, learning disabilities and other mental health concerns often coexist with depression
• Social stressors, such as teasing, can set the child up for depression
• Losses and other significant changes (death, moving, divorce or abuse) may play a part in depression
• Suicide is the third leading case of death at puberty. The rates are increasing among younger kids
• Remember: Depression can be caught early, and it is treatable!

PowerPoint Presentations

• Focus on Depression (6-13-2007)
  • Chronic Absence and School Avoidance
  • Bullying Behavior
• Focus on Depression (7-13-2007)
  • Trauma and Anxiety in Children
  • Relaxation Strategies
• Medications at School (3-14-2007)
  • Poison Control Perspective
  • Adherence at School
  • Psychopharmacology
• Students and Depression Triggers (2-19-07)
  • Grief in Children
  • Trauma, PTSD and School Refusal
  • Serious Illness and Disability
• Youth Depression Workshop (6-23-07)
  • Treating Childhood Depression
  • Mood Disorders Go To School
  • Medication Management for Depression

Other Resources

• SAMHSA works to end stigma associated with Mental Illness
• CKK Recorded Video Presentation — Psychotropics: Concerns for Managing Medications in a School Setting
• Web resource — Child and Adolescent Depression and Anxiety Toolkit
• Book — Helping Your Depressed Child: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents

To schedule a presentation, please contact
Dr. Eve-Lynn Nelson or her project assistant at
(913) 588-2226