In schools, youngsters with serious emotional and learning problems usually are assisted under the auspices of "special education." Of course, many students with behavior, learning, and emotional problems don't meet the criteria for special education. Their needs must be addressed through support programs and other accommodations. This guidebook is designed to improve outcomes for young people by enhancing policies, programs, and practices relevant to mental health in schools. It provides a framework and strategies to guide schools as they encounter common psychosocial problems in students. It is designed as a desk reference aid. An introduction provides an overview of mental health in schools. Part One stresses ways to keep the environment in perspective as a cause of certain types of problems. Part Two frames the full range of programs that allow a school and a community to address psychosocial problems. Part Three covers five of the most common syndromes students manifest and schools agonize over: attention problems; conduct and behavior problems; anxiety problems, affect and mood problems; and social/interpersonal problems. Part Four explores ways to increase a school's capacity to prevent and ameliorate problems. Part Five provides additional sources of information, including agencies and organizations that can provide further information and support. (Each section contains numerous references.) (JDM)