Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About Using The MindMatters Plus Index of Programs And Resources
Question: How can the school decide which program (s) or resource (s) are best to use?
Answer: We have created a Program Selection Tool to assist in the selection of an appropriate program or resource. This tool is available from the sidebar of the homepage of the Index, where there is a link called Program Selection Tool.
Firstly, however, it is necessary to conduct a thorough assessment of school needs in terms of mental health support. Is there a group of students with particular high support needs (if so, what are these needs?) or is it necessary to concentrate on universal prevention, or are both strategies required? The identification of these students and their needs is most important in the effective implementation of any program or resource.
When considering the needs of the school it is also vital that the school examines what they have done in the past, what has been successful/unsuccessful, and to consider the resources available in the school and the local community.
Question: What selection process was used to include programs and resources on the Index?
Answer: We do not claim to have evaluated any of the programs/resources on the database and inclusion is not indicative of recommendation. The disclaimer featured on the Index clearly outlines that inclusion of programs/resources does not indicate endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship by MindMatters Plus. Instead, the inclusion criteria for the Index are based on the suitability of the program/resource against the aim of the Index to provide summary information about a range of mental health promotion, prevention and early intervention programs that can be used in schools to support students with high needs in the area of mental health. Thus, the programs/resources must:
1. Be based on promotion, prevention or early intervention in regard to mental health. 2. Have the capacity to address known risk and protective factors 3. Be relevant to school students 4. Be produced by a reputable source 5. Current and accessible
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Readily available from the distributor
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Have full distributor details for purchase
6. Have reasonable face validity
Question: The training and materials can be expensive. How can we afford the programs?
Answer: One effective way of funding programs is to apply for special grants ( e.g. see the Department of Health and Ageing Website at www.health.gov.au ). Other ways of sourcing funding is to link with local community agencies such as rotary clubs and sporting clubs or local businesses.
Of further note, it is important to ensure that there are sufficient funds for the program beyond the first year of implementation. When selecting a program it is important to consider the ongoing costs including staff time and the cost of program material (particularly if materials cannot be photocopied). An additional expense can be re-training, which may be required due to staff turnover. This is why careful selection of programs is important (see Program Selection Matrix).
