According to NIH MedlinePlus Magazine, 44% of high school students reported feeling depressed or anxious within the last year. Unfortunately, this is not a new phenomenon. Many students have always struggled with their mental health over the years.

However, in recent years, these statistics have doubled. Why have these numbers gone up?

“In my opinion, students are struggling with mental health as a result of the pandemic as it relates to social isolation, loneliness, any trauma they may have experienced during the time, family stress, and anxiety,” said FCHS counselor Joell Jeffreys, who is new to the FCHS counseling staff this year. In fact, almost 40% of students say their mental health started decreasing since the pandemic, according to the American Psychology Association.

“School has affected my mental health big time. During the summer I can normally get out of bed without dreading the day. During the school year, my mental health goes downhill,” said junior Abigail Pappaconstantinou.

Other students say that being in school can have both negative and positive effects on their mental health. “In the past, school made me so stressed and led me into a depressive state for a while. School has also made it positive too, with being able to meet new people and building friendships with people. Having people in my life from school has made my mental health better overall,” said one junior, who asked to remain anonymous given the topic.

With the rise in mental health issues, it’s important to know who you can speak to for help. FCHS has several school counselors students can speak with regarding their school issues, feelings, and concerns.

“As a school counselor, my role is to advocate and support students’ mental health by providing a safe and reliable space where they can feel supported without judgment,” Jeffreys said.

Even knowing this, there is still concern from some students about the methods and screening tools the school and the Virginia Department of Education use to identify and help students in need. Some feel that students who need help may not be identified. However, Jeffreys notes that “Schools have various screening tools. Some of the methods are interviews, observations, and rating scales.”

Of course, some students need more help than what a busy school counselor, especially one who has to juggle school duties like making class changes and sending college transcripts, can give them. “We are fortunate that we have grown the access with the community partnerships with Region 10, Fluvanna Family Counseling, and the National Counseling Group. [They] will be available to provide services to eligible students here at FCHS this year,” stated Kaitlyn Harlow-Burner, Coordinator of Mental Health Services.

Another option for students who are seeking help is to join a school club designed to support students. Examples include Sources of Strength, YOVASO (Youth of Virginia Speak Out about Traffic Safety), and YADAPP (the Youth Alcohol and Drug Prevention Program). These clubs can help students get involved with the community and see a different perspective of why they should reach out for help before they turn towards drugs or alcohol.

Students who are having an acute mental health issue and need immediate help should contact the Suicide Prevention Hotline (which is staffed 24 hours a day) by dialing 988 on their phones.

As school continues, students who are struggling should know that they are not alone, and that you don’t have to suffer alone. Emailing your counselor to set up a meeting is a good way to start.

Haden Parrish, School Counselor
​Students: A – COO
E-mail: [email protected]
Office Hours: 8:00-4:00
Phone: 434-589-8933

Joell Jeffreys, School Counselor
​ Students: Cor – Harp
E-mail: [email protected]
Office Hours: 8:00-4:00
Phone: 434-589-8933

​Kelly Fallavollita, School Counselor
Students: Harr – McC
E-mail: [email protected]
Office Hours: 8:00 – 4:00
Phone: 434-589-8933

​Chris Roberson, School Counselor

Students: McD – R

E-mail: [email protected]
Office Hours: 8:00 – 4:00
Phone: 434-589-8933

​Heaven Chumley, School Counselor
Students: S – Z
E-mail: [email protected]
Office Hours: 8:00 – 4:00
Phone: 434-589-8933