One of the most challenging things a young teen and their parents can go through is the teen being admitted for a long stay at an inpatient mental health facility during the school year. Even when schoolwork is done during their stay in inpatient, they may find going back to school difficult, particularly if problems at school led to their need for time in inpatient. Fortunately, there are specialized schools that enroll students with these types of challenges. 

There are certain aspects to look for in a specialized school for teens who have mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder. Here's what to look for.

Academics

Of course, the main reason your student needs to be in school is for their education, but there's more to academics than meets the eye, particularly when it comes to mental health challenges. Sometimes, mental health can affect the way a person learns, which is why specialized schools are preferred, as academic instruction can be more tailored to each student. Specialized schools typically have a small ratio with five or six students per teacher, which can be immensely helpful in getting the individualized attention your teen needs when they need it.

Therapy

Therapy provides students with the emotional and psycho-social support they need in an academic setting, as well as to help them navigate the various challenges they'll face in society. Look for a specialized school that assigns a therapist to each student and conducts individual and group therapy sessions. If your student struggles with managing their behavior or the behavior of others affects them, be sure the school also has behavior intervention therapy. 

Athletics

Being involved in athletics is a great way to not only get exercise but also to learn how to work together with others and gain confidence. Team sports can provide your teen with additional ways to learn new skills on how to express themselves appropriately through their interactions with others on the team, as everyone is encouraged to be supportive of one another. 

Goal Planning

You'll also want to look for a school that prepares students for life after the specialized school, whether that means returning to their regular school or graduating from the program and moving on to college or employment. Goal planning should be incorporated in the academics and therapy sessions as well, which will help your teen transition into the next stage in their life and reduce the risks of feeling overwhelmed so as to avoid setbacks with their mental health challenges. 

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