On-call for mental health issues: Do you have a plan the unexpected?

As camp gets closer, the amount of time you have to spare dwindles exponentially. So, I'll keep this brief.

As a trained social worker and former camp director, during the summer I often serve as on-call mental health consultation for camp leaders across North America. Think of it as having a trusted colleague on standby, as someone who understands both clinical best practices and the realities of camp.

When something "big" happens at camp that you weren’t quite trained for, yet you have the final say in handling it, who do you call? How does this event affect not just one camper or one staff member, but your entire camp community? What should you do?

This is not instead of your boots-on-the-ground team handling camper or staff care; it's in addition to that. It's a different level of gut-check, consultation, and support, specifically for directors.

If you have someone that you go to, that is excellent, and you're ahead of the curve. (Check out some recent blog posts that include more info on this topic.) If you or your colleagues don't have that go-to person, there's still time for this summer.

I have often talked directors through scenarios such as: Does this camper or staff member stay or do they go, and if they stay, what can we put in place to keep everyone safe?

• Self-harm, suicidal ideation, threats to others

• Emergencies/traumas

• A parent situation that’s escalating

• Or just a gut-check moment where you want a second perspective

You don’t have to navigate it alone. This is real-time, practical consultation designed to help you make thoughtful, confident decisions when it matters most.

In those moments, don't rely on a textbook or ChatGPT. You can find a time to connect here.

Have a wonderful and safe summer!