WS/FCS to get therapy dog in response to rise in mental health concerns

Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools has seen an uptick in students experiencing mental health issues. 

District officials say the Psychological Services department completed 447 suicide safety assessments this year— a 5% increase from the year before. 

There have also been more referrals for mental health services, and an apparent rise in students receiving a higher level of care, like hospitalization or psychiatric residential treatment. 

The district has created a mental health plan which involves implementing social emotional learning initiatives, increasing physical activity in the classroom and something entirely new — getting a therapy dog. 

"We know when the therapy dog is in the room, just the mere petting of the animal helps to calm people," said WS/FCS Director of Psychological Services Heather Schwickrath at a recent school board meeting.

She said therapy dogs can also provide companionship, lower blood pressure, stimulate social interaction, and help students with disabilities, as well as those experiencing trauma or loss.

The dog, along with its training, food, toys and more, will be paid for with a grant from Partners Behavioral Health. One of the district's mental health clinicians will be the dog's handler, and grooming will be provided by students in North Forsyth High School's Animal Science program. 

The dog will provide support to students in an alternative school, and assist with crisis response at other sites as needed. 

Amy Diaz covers education for WFDD in partnership with Report For America. You can follow her on Twitter at @amydiaze.