May 7 – 13th marks Children’s Mental Health Week across Ontario. This is an important week where we are able to bring awareness to the prevalence of mental health issues and the need to support our kids’ mental health.

Wear It Wednesday

To show support and raise awareness of children’s mental health, the Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington is inviting everyone in our community to wear green on Wednesday, May 9. The #WearItWednesday campaign is about taking mental health advocacy and making it visible—wearing green and sharing it on social media reminds our community that it’s important to talk about mental health.

Supporting mental health and well-being

We know that mental wellness is a condition for learning. There is a clear relationship between student mental health problems and academic difficulties. When we attend to student wellness in our schools, students have a greater opportunity to reach their academic and social emotional potential. We have supports in place to help students and caregivers.

Who can I talk to at school regarding my child’s mental health concerns?

  • You may find it helpful to speak to your child’s teacher. The school Principal or guidance department (in secondary schools) is always a good place to go for help too. They will connect you with other resources you may need.
  • Each school has access to a designated school social worker and psychologist through a referral process that happens at the school.

We also have parent resources available on our website to learn more about mental health and well-being.

If you are worried about your child’s mental health, or that of someone else, be sure to ask for help from your family doctor or health care professional.