This past summer, I embarked on a unique journey alongside my private practice, accepting a position as a psychologist at a large day camp. Given my longstanding affinity for camp culture, I was eager to join a dedicated Camper Care team composed of mental health professionals.
When I shared my new role, reactions typically fell into two categories: a polite skepticism—“Hmm, interesting. I didn’t know camps employed psychologists”—or enthusiasm, with individuals expressing a wish that such mental health support had been available during their own camp experiences.
Research highlights the urgent need for mental health professionals to engage with children throughout the year. Approximately 15 million children face mental health disorders, and data from the CDC reveals that 1 in 7 children aged 2 to 8 years has been diagnosed with a mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder. The impact of mental illness on families is more significant than many realize, underscoring the necessity for comprehensive mental health care.
Despite the growing awareness surrounding mental health issues, a pervasive stigma remains, leading to a double standard between physical and mental health. Conversations about hypertension are commonplace, yet discussions about depression remain hushed. This disparity often breeds confusion about the necessity of a camp psychologist, with some viewing it as a luxury akin to having a heated pool.
However, my experience this summer illuminated the critical importance of having mental health professionals at camps. What if the presence of a camp psychologist were prioritized like that of a camp doctor? Parents typically expect medical professionals on site for their children’s safety, yet mental health needs often receive far less attention. My role reinforced the idea that having a psychologist available is just as essential for addressing the myriad mental health concerns that arise during the summer.
Camp, often perceived as a realm of joy filled with lanyards, kickball, and bug juice, can also present an array of challenges. Behavioral issues, social-emotional struggles, group dynamics, and personal conflicts frequently surface. The less structured environment of camp can be particularly difficult for children with sensory sensitivities or those transitioning through family changes such as moving homes or parents divorcing.
The brevity of the camp experience further complicates matters, providing little time for adjustment compared to the school year. Having a professional on site to help children navigate these transitions is vital to ensuring they don’t miss out on the valuable aspects of camp life, such as developing independence and meaningful relationships.
My work in this environment was both novel and rewarding. One camper, Alex,* came to me after a rough morning. He had a conflict with another camper named Jamie,* which led to acting out. Initially defensive, Alex gradually opened up about his feelings. Together, we explored coping strategies, and he left feeling empowered. The following week, he proudly reported using one of the skills we discussed when faced with a different challenge during swimming.
Without a psychologist, counselors may feel overwhelmed in addressing campers’ emotional needs for which they are unprepared. Reflecting on my own camp experiences, I recognize the profound impact such support could have had during difficult times, such as losing loved ones or facing family crises.
My role also involved supporting camp staff, equipping them with the tools to foster a nurturing environment for campers. This proactive approach alleviated situations that might otherwise lead to a child needing to leave camp prematurely, allowing them to build resilience and confidence.
Prior to camp, I conducted a training session for counselors. One participant posed a question about identifying signs of a mental breakdown in a child. Although her phrasing was somewhat dramatic, it opened a valuable discussion on emotional regulation and empathy, emphasizing how crucial it is to understand that all children struggle with self-regulation at times.
As the camp progressed, my responsibilities grew, addressing various issues that arose to ensure a successful summer experience for all campers. For children who traditionally struggle in academic settings, camp offers a unique opportunity to thrive in a different environment.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role was collaborating with a team committed to meeting each child’s individual needs, often extending support beyond the camp itself. By communicating with parents and external therapists, I bridged the gap between camp and home, facilitating strategies that promote growth across different settings. Engaging with families and sharing insights empowers them to better support their child’s journey.
Ultimately, by addressing each child’s unique challenges and providing them with coping tools, I enabled them to enjoy the essence of camp—fun! After all, that’s what camp is truly about.
*All names have been changed to protect confidentiality.
For further insights, you can explore our article about intrauterine insemination here, or check out Cryobaby’s home insemination kit for additional resources. Additionally, Johns Hopkins Medicine offers excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
This article highlights the critical role of camp psychologists in supporting children’s mental health in camp settings. It emphasizes the importance of mental health professionals to address emotional challenges, promote resilience, and enhance the overall camp experience. Through direct interactions with campers and collaboration with staff and families, psychologists play a vital part in fostering a positive and supportive environment for personal growth.