A girl notices her best friend is struggling with all the academic stress of junior year. Once a social butterfly and easy to talk to, she has now become distant, withdrawn and unwilling to communicate with anyone. When winter break plans are suddenly canceled with a simple text claiming she’s “tired,” the change becomes impossible to overlook. Worried about her friend but unsure what to do, the girl hopes things will be back to normal once school resumes—but when everyone else returns after the holidays, she notices one person who is not among them.
Students have a lot on their plate; they must uphold family responsibilities, college preparation and extracurricular activities, all while maintaining their performance in school. In Montgomery County, these stressful expectations can lead students to overlook what is most important: their own wellbeing.
Although mental health resources are available, many students hesitate to seek help. Factors such as fear, judgement and uncertainty can influence whether students reach out. These barriers make accessing support more difficult, particularly during times of stress when logical judgement is a challenge.
One of the primary resources available to students is their school counselor. School counselors provide guidance for academic, social and emotional stress in every Montgomery County School. “I’d say my counselor has reassured me on some things when stressed and also helped me take the right classes,” Thomas S. Wootton junior Alisa Arya said.
Beyond school counselors, there are school based mental health supports such as psychologists and crisis personnel. Organizations like Every Mind offer students 24/7 crisis support with either text or call, counseling or therapy referrals and prevention programs to promote mental health and well being. “I find that it’s difficult for some students to not only voice out concerns but get help when needed in the absence of a trusted adult. Others might not know where to begin the process of getting help and through EveryMind’s therapy referrals and prevention programs families can get guidance and support,” Thomas S. Wootton junior Janel Suleimenov said.
Maryland also provides a crisis hotline: 833-MD-B-SAFE. By calling the hotline, students can anonymously report mental health crises, bullying, drug activity or weapons. “I never knew about this hotline but I definitely think it could help students struggling with mental health issues… by anonymously telling it could be easier. I think they should make more students aware about this hotline,” Thomas S. Wootton junior Alisye Basra said.
Students often use mental health resources in different ways. Some seek support directly, while others learn about resources through peers, teachers or school programs. Awareness and accessibility play a role in whether students choose to use available services.
Peers also play an important role in recognizing changes in behavior. Friends may notice drawl, stress or changes in routine before adults do. These observations can lead students to seek information or encourage others to connect with support systems.
For students with academic pressure and emotional stress, mental health resources can provide multiple points of support. Montgomery County offers school-based and community services designed to address a student’s problem.
A girl notices her best friend is struggling with all the academic stress of junior year. Once a social butterfly and easy to talk to, she has now become distant, withdrawn and unwilling to communicate with anyone. Knowing that counselors, hotline and community programs exist, she does not think twice before reaching out to find support for her friend. When everyone returns to school after the holidays, so does her friend’s cheerful personality and charm. Reaching out, even with small steps like checking in or sharing resources, can connect a struggling student with help. In Montgomery County, these supports provide multiple avenues for students to find guidance, stability, and a path back to well-being.
Written by Morgan Wilson