Free Virtual Mental Health Services for Savannah Students

Students utilizing virtual mental health services from the comfort of their home

News Summary

Savannah-Chatham County Public School System has launched a groundbreaking initiative offering free virtual mental health services for students through a partnership with Hazel Health. Starting April 10, students can access teletherapy appointments from home, ensuring they receive necessary support anytime. This move is part of the district’s commitment to student wellness, backed by substantial funding. With parental involvement in enrollment, this program addresses mental health challenges for all students, aiming to provide resources for a brighter future.

Exciting News for Savannah Students: Free Virtual Mental Health Services Now Available!

Residents of Savannah, you’ve got something to smile about! The Savannah-Chatham County Public School System (SCCPSS) has just stepped up its game by launching a fantastic new initiative: free virtual mental health services for students. This new service is a result of a partnership with Hazel Health, a well-known provider of pediatric telehealth specifically tailored for K-12 schools.

On April 10, SCCPSS officially announced this groundbreaking program, with services ready to roll out at no cost to students. This means that students can access mental health and wellness support right from the comfort of their own homes! Talk about convenience!

Extending Wellness Support Beyond Traditional Services

Previously, students had access to in-person services through the SCCPSS Wellness Center, but this new virtual offering is set to extend the support available, ensuring that students can get the help they need whenever they need it. Whether they’re feeling anxious, stressed, or just needing someone to talk to, the new virtual mental health services are here to help.

How It Works: Teletherapy Made Easy

So, how does it all work? It’s simple! Students will have the ability to schedule teletherapy appointments from home, which is a major plus, especially for those times when they cannot make it to the Wellness Center. Moreover, select school campuses will also be available for students who prefer in-person sessions.

Parents or guardians play a crucial role in this process. They have the opportunity to refer their students for these virtual mental health services, making sure that their children receive the support they need. If the student is under 18, parental permission is required to enroll in the services. However, students aged 18 or older can sign up all on their own!

Funding and Approval: How It All Came Together

The Savannah-Chatham County Board showcased their commitment to student wellness by approving a contract worth $258,375 with Hazel Health during a board meeting held on December 18, 2024. Such funding is vital as it allowed the district to make these important services accessible for students who may be struggling with mental health issues.

This program is further supported by funds from a grant issued by the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health, ensuring that finances wouldn’t act as a barrier to getting help. It’s all about making sure that every student has the resources they need to thrive!

More Information at Your Fingertips

If you’re eager to find out more about this remarkable initiative or want to get started, you can find plenty of information by navigating to Hazel Health’s website. Just visit getstarted.hazel.co/district/sccpss for everything you need to know!

This is truly a monumental step for Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools. With mental health finally being prioritized in such a significant way, students no longer have to feel alone in their struggles. Whatever challenges they may face, *help is just a click away*. Here’s to brighter days ahead for our amazing students!