At Wayne Valley High School, students are no strangers to stress; schoolwork, extracurriculars, and personal challenges can greatly influence stress levels. However, the school is committed to ensuring that mental health resources are easily accessible to all students in need. Mental health is not always a topic people are open to discussing, but here at Wayne Valley, resources are available to even those who are scared to seek help. 

One of the most popular assets are the therapy dogs that visit the school during lunch on certain days. These therapy dogs visit the school to provide students with a comforting and calming presence during their lunch breaks–or maybe when a student is just in need of seeing a cute furry friend. Whether it is a stressful day before a big test or just a moment when students need to unwind, spending a few minutes with these dogs has become a routine for some.

In addition to therapy dogs, Wayne Valley’s Spirit Guides are the most valuable resource, yet they are overlooked by many students. The counselors are always available to listen to students’ concern whether it is about academic pressure, personal issues, or future goals. They offer support, coping strategies, and referrals to additional mental health services when necessary. With a team of experienced and compassionate counselors, Wayne Valley ensures that every student has someone to turn to when they need help.

Along with all of the other resources stated, on the back of every student ID there is a suicide hotline prevention phone number and website. This reminder ensures that, in moments of crisis, students have quick access to resources like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Putting such a valuable resource on something that a student may look at every day makes the resource much more accessible.

Many students may hesitate to reach out for support, but these resources provided by the school show us that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By offering accessible resources like therapy dogs, supportive counselors, and quick access to crisis hotlines, Wayne Valley is creating a safe environment where mental health is prioritized just as much as academic achievement.