Mental health resources extended for students this summer | Key Biscayne

Miami-Dade Public Schools students can still use telehealth services while on summer vacation to address physical and mental health issues.

The virtual Hazel Telehealth services, in partnership with the school district, debuted in February 2025 for students to use during school hours and at home if severely needed.

Some students and parents were worried the program, with support from United Healthcare, would be placed on hold and resumed at the start of the next school year.

The school district confirmed students can access the services through Hazel Health during the summer.

“Both mental health services and health services, specially through our new telehealth partnership with Hazel Health, run all summer long,” Elmo Lugo, a communications specialist with Miami-Dade Public Schools, told the Islander News in a text.

According to Hazel Health, about 1 in 5 children face mental health challenges including depression and anxiety which can lead to withdrawal, substance abuse or contemplating suicide.

“This initiative, supported through an investment by UnitedHealthcare, is part of a broader effort announced last year to provide virtual school-centered health care for up to 1 million students across select states nationwide,” Miami-Dade Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Jose L. Dotres said in February. “Our schools have evolved into comprehensive support hubs where students can access vital resources that foster success both academically and personally.”

Hazel Health President Andrew Post said that many children lack access to essential health and mental health services due to barriers ranging from provider shortages, stigma and costs.

Lack of services impact their social lives, academic performance and long-term development.

“We have witnessed soaring rates of mental health challenges and declining health indicators among children, adolescents and their families, and we understand the impact that it has on a student’s academic success,” said Post. “However, this isn’t just about academic success, it’s about equipping our young people with the tools and resilience they’ll need throughout their lives. By investing in student health and wellness today, we’re not only improving their classroom performance, we’re laying the foundation for their lifelong success.”

According to a 2023 study, mental health service is vital for students during summer recess.

The summer break can bring boredom and under stimulation including kids not being able to socialize with their peers on a daily basis like when they are in school.

During the summer time, students who stay at home or are not engaged in summer camps and activities, are more likely to experience depression or substance abuse.

“Children spend a large part of their day in school and being able to provide medical and behavioral health services where they are in a culturally competent way helps to break down barriers to deliver care to families regardless of socioeconomic status, race or ethnicity,” said Michael Lawton, CEO, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Florida.