While numerous resources are available, they often go unnoticed due to a lack of visibility. That changes today. Introducing Hazel Health, a free and accessible virtual therapy available to every FCPS student. It’s time to ensure that every student knows help is here and that the stigma surrounding mental health ends now.

The stigma attached to mental health has silenced many, making it difficult for individuals to seek help when they need it most. With mental health crises on the rise, opening up the conversation is more vital than ever, especially in a diverse community like Falls Church High School, where students face a range of unique challenges.

“Taking care of your mental health and well-being is extremely important because it’s such a big part of what makes us human,” Sydney Phan (11) said.

FCPS implemented Hazel Health to support students and address these barriers. The goal is to provide an accessible solution for those who might otherwise struggle to find support, especially in a post-COVID world.
“After COVID, we wanted to find an accessible way for students with barriers to find support,” school counselor Ana Gaitan said.

Hazel Health is designed to make accessing mental health support as simple and seamless as possible. Students can connect with this service through trusted school staff members, such as counselors, social workers, or psychologists. The process is straightforward and intentionally designed to remove barriers, ensuring that every student can quickly access the help they need.

“Hazel is a free, virtual therapy service … To access services once signing up, the student’s parents/guardians need to provide consent on the Hazel website,” school psychologist Lauren Holmes said.

For students under 18 with parental or guardian consent, Hazel Health offers seven free therapy sessions. These sessions provide a starting point for mental health support, helping students address immediate concerns. Hazel Health is also helpful in guiding students toward finding a permanent therapist who understands their unique needs. Hazel Health is a lifeline for students dealing with academic stress, personal challenges, and the struggles of growing up. It offers a simple and effective way to access professional help, making a real difference in their mental well-being.

“Recognizing and supporting mental health is important to… promote a fulfilling life so you can feel good about yourself and build relationships with others as well,” said Phan.