Care About Me program expands access to behavioral health services for school-aged children in Pinellas County
Pinellas County’s Care About Me program, a coordinated access system designed to connect Pinellas County residents with needed mental health, substance use and addiction services, is taking a monumental step toward addressing the behavioral health needs of the county’s students through partnership with the Pinellas County School System.
In Pinellas County, one in four teens struggle with mental health issues such as suicidal thoughts, a rate significantly higher than the state average of 17%. Florida’s broader behavioral health crisis affects over 400,000 children and youth, yet only half receive the necessary care. With 50% of mental conditions beginning by age 14, early intervention is essential. Programs like Care About Me address these critical needs by offering direct access to mental health services, helping at-risk youth build resilience and healthy coping strategies.
What sets Care About Me apart is its hands-on approach. Rather than simply providing resources, the program guides residents through the process. This approach significantly reduces barriers that often prevent individuals from accessing care, especially for those unfamiliar with the behavioral health system.
“The Care About Me program has been invaluable in connecting students and families with the services they need,” said Vicki Koller, Managing Officer of School Social Work Services for Pinellas County Schools. “Many parents are facing their child’s mental health challenges for the first time and feel overwhelmed about where to turn. Care About Me serves as a critical support system, guiding families through the process and ensuring they can access care quickly and effectively.”
Students face a variety of mental health challenges, including anxiety, ADHD, depression and self-harm behaviors such as cutting. Without intervention, these issues can significantly hinder a student’s ability to succeed academically and socially. Care About Me aims to reduce the need for crisis stabilization or hospitalization by ensuring students receive care before their challenges escalate.
To raise awareness, the program engages with the community through events such as the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Resource Fair, Experience PCS and back-to-school events.
“This program meets families where they are,” Koller said. “Rather than simply providing a phone number, we connect people to Care About Me which facilitates access to a provider who can address their specific needs. The Pinellas County School System obtains parental or guardian consent prior to referring students directly to Care About Me. This approach significantly improves the chances of a successful outcome while supporting families.”
Launched in May 2024, the Care About Me program continues to grow, providing Pinellas County residents with access to the behavioral health support they need to thrive. Pinellas County residents in need of behavioral health support can take the first step by calling or texting “CARE” to (888) 431-1998. For more information about Care About Me or its services, visit careaboutme.org.