HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Most people dream of their children living safe, secure and happy lives, but according to the CDC, 20% of the U.S.'s high school students "seriously" contemplated suicide in 2023. Henrico County Public Schools is making mental health a priority this year and has launched initiatives aimed at promoting mental health resource accessibility and awareness to all students and staff members. On Wednesday night, Varina High School hosted an event to help parents identify a mental health crisis and learn about resources available to help their student. This is just the beginning of what school district officials described as a large-scale movement to address increasing mental health struggles among young people. Elizabeth Parker, the school district's Student Support and Wellness Director, told 8News about the strides the county has taken ahead of this school year to ensure students have the resources they need to help combat growing rates of mental health issues like depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation or intent. "That really is what kind of catapulted us into really recognizing the need to do something more," Parker said. This year, with help and support from county officials, Henrico County Public Schools began offering free therapy to all students and staff. It's about showing that "Henrico CARES" -- which is the program's namesake. Parker said Henrico CARES serves as a way to make seeking mental health care more accessible and manageable for young Henrico residents. "I don't know if anyone's ever navigated the mental health care landscape before… it is incredibly overwhelming and can be very frustrating and very complicated," Parker said. One new avenue of mental health treatment is through "Care Solace," a multilingual coordination team that matches and connects students, families and even staff members with local mental health professionals -- all for free. Henrico high school students also have the opportunity to virtually connect weekly with "Hazel Health" therapists — also at no cost. Parker explained how this focused effort is the county's way of doing its part to promote accessibility, but parents are just as critical. "Your role in your child's life is still incredibly important," Parker said. "And to stay involved and to ask questions and have conversations, regardless of how old your child is getting -- that connection is so important because you are the expert in your child." Parker told 8News "Care Solace" has facilitated 145 initial mental health care appointments since launching in August. The school district plans to keep this resource available long-term, more information can be found here.