As colder months settle in and days get shorter, students at WS face an exam-heavy stretch of the school year, making it essential to maintain a good mental health. WS and FCPS provide a variety of resources to support students’ emotional well being.
Under HB 308, a Virginia law passed in 2020, public schools are required to excuse absences related to a student’s mental or behavioral health. The law instructs the Virginia Department of Education to provide statewide guidelines for school districts to follow, ensuring that students can prioritize their well being without academic penalty.
FCPS also offers a no cost mental health virtual teletherapy program called Hazel Health available to all high school students at no cost. FCPS says Hazel is fully HIPAA compliant and Hazel’s therapists are locally licensed. The aim of the program is to extend access for mental health support for students who may not feel comfortable seeking in person help. Hazel also reports 40% of its therapists are bilingual across 15 languages, allowing students to access care in their preferred language.
According to the FCPS website, non-emergency mental health services help students manage challenges and build coping skills before a crisis occurs. FCPS schools have a dedicated team of on-site school-based mental health professionals to help. This team includes school counselors, psychologists, social workers, and substance abuse prevention specialists, all of whom provide a range of in-school services to support students’ emotional well-being.
For students in a mental health crisis, FCPS lists multiple immediate support options, including the 988 Lifeline, which offers free 24/7 support by call, text, or chat. Additional services include emergency support from the Fairfax Falls Church Community Services Board, mobile crisis response through CR2, and specialized care from REACH and Alexander T. Augusta Military Medical Center at Fort Belvoir. Local Inova emergency rooms across Northern Virginia are also available for students at immediate risk.
FCPS has several additional resources for families, including webinars, workshops, and guides through the Office of Family and School Partnerships. The Office of the Ombuds serves as a confidential resource for students, families, and community members seeking guidance. The Parental Advocacy Handbook offers information on parental rights, home support strategies, and local resources. Families, students, and staff can report safety or wellness concerns through the FCPS Safety Tipline.
WS counselor Tara Lodwig recommends some strategies for students to manage stress and mental health.
“Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep,”said Lodwig. “Go for a walk, hike, play sports, dance, connect with friends and family.”
