The middle school years can bring a variety of emotions in students that range from happy and rewarding to sad and traumatic.  Rachel Carson Middle school cares about the well-being of every student. At times when emotions become overwhelming or difficult to handle, we encourage students to seek help whether it be for themselves or a friend. Parents and teachers can support their children too by familiarizing themselves with signs and symptoms of emotional distress and acknowledging that any student can experience distress at one time or another.

The Rachel Carson Middle School department consists of  6 school counselors, 1 full time psychologist, and 1 part time social worker all of whom are available for students while at school. Parents and guardians are welcome to contact the Student Services staff members when they have concerns about their child, but when students aren’t in school and families need help, we offer the resources below.

Mental Health & Resiliency

• Discover the foundation for building solid mental health and resiliency.
• View mental health resources and emergency services information
• View FCPS' Healthy Minds features
• View tips on building resiliency 

Student Wellness Tips and Strategies

Feeling super stressed? Worried about a friend's mental health—or your own? Get tips to help manage your emotions and see what to do if you are in crisis.

• How to handle peer pressure
• How to help a friend in crisis
• Quick tips to lift your mood
• Ways to bring balance to your life
• Tips to ease anxiety
• And much more

If you or someone you care about is in crisis, take action (your friend will thank you later).  You have options:

Try these tips for supporting a friend or family member

• Call the Crisis Link Hotline at 703-527-4077 or text them at 703-997-5444
• Chat online with a specialist at CrisisChat.org or ImAlive.org
• Go to the nearest emergency room at your local hospital
• Call 911