On this episode, Allison is joined by Mariel Sass, Murph Hammer, and Brian Massey to discuss the role of summer camps in addressing mental health issues among teen campers and staff. With emotional and social health (MESH) becoming an increasingly prominent issue, this group is sharing what they're doing about it with their various professional backgrounds. 

Brian and Mariel talk about implementing Mariel's specific role at their camp to provide mental/emotional support and train other staff in handling difficulties. They emphasize the importance of building strong relationships with campers, creating supportive environments for them while allowing staff to focus on their responsibilities, and proactive outreach to families before campers arrive. 

If you're looking to learn more about proactive approaches to camper MESH care, this is the pod for you.

Producer EmJ's Takeaways:

1. Train your frontline staff how to respond to mental health wounds like they would physical wounds. 
2. Parent and care-giver self-reporting is only so reliable but its a good investment and chance for them to share about a common interest: their child's wellbeing.
3. Working with the staff and campers about mental health isn’t a “thing”, its a person.

Show Notes:

• New York Times Opinion article, "This Is Not the Way to Help Depressed Teenagers"
• Stoplight Scheduling

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Listen on Spotify | Apple Music