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Ex-ER Doc Turns Teacher to Fight School Mental Health Crisis

After witnessing mental health struggles firsthand, this ex-doctor turned teacher is fighting for change in schools. His insights are influencing the conversation, but which schools has he advised?

On the left there are shrubs, current pole and trees. In the center of the picture there are...
On the left there are shrubs, current pole and trees. In the center of the picture there are stones, railway track, train, poles, cables and other objects. On the right there are trees. Sky is partially cloudy.

Ex-ER Doc Turns Teacher to Fight School Mental Health Crisis

Dr. Christopher Jenson, a former ER physician and high school science teacher, has been advocating for schools to prioritize mental health, especially among students and teachers. His efforts gained momentum during the pandemic, leading him to establish Diagnosing Education LLC, a school consulting service. However, despite his expertise, no records identify the specific schools he has advised regarding the dual crises in student and teacher mental health.

Jenson's career shift was driven by his passion for helping young people and his family's situation. He spent nine years teaching at Blue Valley School District in Kansas, where he witnessed firsthand the mental health struggles of both students and teachers. Before the pandemic, 18% of high school students had contemplated suicide, according to the CDC's Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Jenson believes that teachers can play a crucial role in supporting students' mental health by reducing content and incorporating emotional- and relationship-building exercises.

The pandemic in 2020 further highlighted these issues, leading Jenson to combine his medical and teaching backgrounds to help schools navigate health challenges. He focuses on assisting educators and school leaders in addressing the mental health crisis. Despite his significant contributions, no search results have been found that specify which schools he has advised on these matters.

Dr. Christopher Jenson's dedication to improving mental health in schools is evident, with his book 'After The Mask: A Guide to Caring for Students and Schools' published last year. Although the specific schools he has advised remain unidentified, his insights and experiences continue to influence the conversation around student and teacher mental health.

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