Collective Trauma of Systemic Racism and COVID-19 on Young People: What Supports Will They Need Upon Returning to School and Afterschool Programs?

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We are in the midst of a tragic and painful time for youth, families and staff of schools and community based organizations as they deal with the collective trauma of COVID-19 and the real dangers of systemic racism ranging from violence to the opportunity gap. One of the top concerns of educators and nonprofit organizations is the need for mental health supports going forward. This includes an emphasis on promoting social emotional learning, trauma informed care training, wellness, and classic youth development strategies to foster a caring, supportive and nurturing climate throughout schools and out-of-time school programs.

The gap in mental health services is especially acute in New York City where nearly 300,000 children ages 5-17 have been diagnosed with a mental health disorder and 60% of children and adolescents have experienced at least one traumatic event prior to this year. Despite this great need, only 12% of these young people can be served by the existing health system. And there are only about 2,880 school counselors for one million students in NYC—that is one counselor for every 348 students.

In addition to the mental health needs of students and families, staff working with our youth and families are also experiencing trauma, getting burnt out, and are in need of their own counseling to deal with their personal experiences which in most cases are the same as the youth and families they serve.