Back-on-track

Step 1:

Exclude acute danger or trauma: suicidal acts or plan; acute grief; abuse.

If present, these will need specific intervention (eg, notification) or referral on.

Step 2:

Explain

eg,

1. 'This is depression, most people get better in weeks, but it will be quicker if you work hard at it'
2. 'We have agreed there is nothing to really be frightened of at school, but school makes you feel anxious, so you are avoiding going. But the more you avoid it, the more the thought of going back will make you worry. So we have to work on helping you get back to school.'

Step 3:

Encourage return to school/work/other activities

May be simple encouragement or may involve a graded rehab programme, perhaps in partnership with school or physiotherapist.