Resources for Children and Youth

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 and guide you to finding help within your community.

What is Mental Health?

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 find it hard to feel well all the time, or that you feel like you are struggling with your mental health. No two people are the same, so know that there are others close by who feel the same way you do. There are many different reasons why you might be struggling with mental health... family troubles, body changes, trauma, etc.

Stress, Anxiety and Depression are all common in school aged children and youth. 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.

I Need Help - Where Do I Get It?

One of the simplest things you can do that can help is to talk to someone about how you are feeling.

Here is a simple list of people and places you can go to for help...

• Caregivers and Peers - A family member, close neighbour or your peers that you feel safe with know you the best. Reach out and share how you are feeling. They may not have a solution, but talking with them can be very good for your mental health, and they can help you seek professional help from the community. 
• Family Doctor - Your doctor is 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 communities that are here to support you. You don't need a doctor or caregiver to give permission to see a counsellor - you can go directly to them for help.
• Community Support - If talking isn't your thing, you can try other ways to help like yoga, journal writing, exercise, and eating healthy foods. There are several classes and clubs you can join in your community that can help you. The local library or even your school will have a list of groups and events. 

Go to the Community Resources page and select the community you live closest to for supports close to home. You can also go to the Crisis Resources page if you would rather find help outside your community.

Below are some other resources that you may find helpful to get started on your journey. 

Helping students cope with stress, anxiety and depression

Learn more about anxiety, stress and depression.

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Dealing with Depression

Get factual information about depression, learn skills that can help and different ways to access support for anxiety, stress and depression in youth.

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Suicide Intervention toolkit for youth

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Suicide Intervention toolkit for caregivers

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