Mental Health Resources for Parents
There are many people in a child or teen's life that play an important role in their mental health and well-being including parents/caregivers, family, school staff, community members, faith leaders, Elders, etc. It can be challenging to talk about mental health concerns - especially to our own children!
Resources to promote mental health and well-being
Resources and Supports for Students and Families to Understand and Respond to Anti-Black Racism We humbly offer these resources and supports as a potential starting point to help support mental health and well-being, and to provide a deeper understanding of anti-Black racism:
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Resources to access if you or someone you know needs support
Children and youth can experience mental health problems that range from mild to serious. As a parent or guardian, you are well-positioned to observe changes in your child's behaviour. It is often difficult to understand what the changes mean. Talking with your child or teen about your concerns can be the first step. See here for Tips: How to Talk with Your Child
Parents may wonder if it is a stage that their child or teen is going through. When a problem lasts more than a few weeks, and interferes with his or her daily life it has becomes a concern that requires further support.
Getting help can be overwhelming for many families. It may be helpful to start with people who know your child or teen.
- Educators and administrators are well-positioned to partner with you and to share what they notice during the time that your child or teen is at school.
- Each of our schools also have allocated social workers, and psychology personnel who can provide consultation around social emotional concerns and/or brief counselling services. Speak to the school administrator if you would like to connect with these professionals.
- In our middle and secondary schools, Guidance and Contact staff also support students and will often be the first contact for mental health support.
- Your family doctor or pediatrician can ensure that there is not a medical cause for the behaviour you are observing. They may also be able to refer you on to resources in the community for additional support.
- Faith-based supports may also be available at your place of worship.
View tips to consider if you want to talk to your child about mental health concerns and resources available to support you.
Website resources
Families may wish to gather information about the concern they are experiencing by going online. The following websites provide information about student mental health and well-being: