LUZERNE COUNTY, Pa. — It's a trend the Children's Service Center in Wilkes-Barre says is becoming more and more detrimental to the mental health of students: Repetitive threats to schools in Luzerne County are weighing heavy on the minds of staff and students alike.
Twice in one week, schools across Luzerne County have adjusted schedules due to threats.
Wilkes-Barre Area and Dallas School Districts announced early dismissals after receiving threats Thursday morning. Lake-Lehman operated on a two-hour delay schedule after reported threats.
The same schools received threats earlier this week.
Experts at the Children's Service Center in Wilkes-Barre say these threats are fueling a growing mental health crisis as teachers, students, and parents figure out how to navigate the ongoing threats.
"Most of these threats are false alarms, but the emotional reactions are not. The emotional reactions are very real," said Carolanne Jones-Leco, a licensed clinical social worker.
Jones-Leco says these threats are adding to the current mental health crisis.
"We have not recovered from the pandemic yet with the anxiety that kids are feeling, then we go back to school, and we start experiencing all of these threats, and that anxiety we may just be working through gets rehashed again."
Jones-Leco says the Children's Service Center has seen more parents bringing their children in for help, but there are things parents can do at home.
"It's important for parents to talk to the children honestly about what is happening, to talk about how they are feeling, and to be honest about their own feelings."
With the disruptions to the school day, she says kids may act out at home due to the added fear and stress of questioning their safety.
"Try to keep your attention consistent. Make sure they know you are listening, and try to make sure their other routines are not disrupted. They need that consistency they can count on day after day."
The Children's Service Center also provides resources for teachers and staff going through these stressful times.