NECHAKO CARES

Resources for children and youth

If you are in crisis, please use your local Emergency Room to get immediate help, or call 911.

You are reading this page because you have questions, concerns or curiosity about what mental health and substance use problems really are. This page will hopefully provide some answers for you.

Mental health is a state of well-being in which a person can realize their own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to help others.

Does that sound impossible?

You are not alone if you feel that way. No two people are the same, but there will be someone close by who is going through what you are dealing with.

Stress, Anxiety and Depression are all common in school aged children. Here are some signs and symptoms that you might be feeling if you are stressed, anxious or depressed... stomach aches • headaches • unable to sleep • crying more easily • can't eat • missing school and withdrawing from friends • use of alcohol or drugs. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and they are making it hard to get through your day, then it may be time to seek help.

There are a lot of different reasons why you might be having mental health issues... family troubles, body changes, trauma, etc. One of the simplest things you can do that can help is to talk to someone about how you are feeling.

Go to our Services page to get all the details, but here is a simple list of people and places you can go to for help...

• Family Doctor - Your doctor is a someone who likely has known you for a long time. Their job is to make sure you are healthy and safe. Talking to a doctor can lead to more help and advice on how to feel better.
• School Counsellor - There is likely a counsellor in your school. If not, your teacher or principal are there to help you. A school counsellor can help you deal with situations at school that are unhealthy for you.
• After-school Counsellors - Although you can see these counsellors during school too, you need to know that there are other counsellors available in our community that are here to support you. Counsellors from Nechako Valley Community Services Society and Carrier Sekani Family Services can help. These counsellors can also link you to other help too.
• Community Support - If talking isn't your thing, you can try other simple things to help, like yoga, journal writing, exercise, and eating healthy foods. There are classes and clubs you can join in your community that can help you self-help.