Getting Help

Getting Help: Noticing and Responding to Mental Health Concerns

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!

As parents (like others), we sometimes avoid the conversation because we don’t know how to start, or we worry that by expressing concerns, we will make the situation worse. However, it is important to remember that acknowledging and discussing worries, concerns, or changes in behaviour openly and honestly with our children is more likely to open up lines of communication rather than worsen the situation.

Here are some tips to consider if you want to talk to your child about mental health concerns:

• To begin the conversation, find a quiet time when you are unlikely to be interrupted.

• Reassure your child that they can be open and honest, without you getting angry (even if you become scared or worried by the information they disclose).

• Describe the changes that you have noticed in your child’s mood, behaviour, or reactions. For example, “I have noticed that you are crying more often since school started” or “I have noticed that you seem more frustrated recently.”

• Try to label or “name” your child’s emotions and thoughts. For example, “I wonder if you’re feeling sad about losing your friendship with Sam” or “I wonder if you are thinking that this cannot be fixed.”

• Allow your child time to reflect and respond. Silence is okay.

• Be persistent. If your child responds with “nothing is wrong...leave me alone,” reassure your child that you are there for them. Give your child some time and revisit the conversation again.

• If your child tells you anything that makes you increasingly concerned, reassure them that you are glad they told you, offer to help them find the right professional to talk to, and reinforce that you will be there for them throughout the journey.

Remember, for many children and youth, everyday loving support from caring adults will be enough to help them thrive.

Some children and youth require additional help.

Ask your child’s teacher or Principal about the mental health supports and services offered within schools. Every PDSB school is assigned Social Work, Psychology and Speech and Language staff to provide consultation and direct service to students, and assist students and families to get connected to helpful resources in the community.

There are also community resources that provide mental health support to children, youth, and families

• To access child and youth mental health services in the Region of Peel, visit WhereToStart.ca

• The Mental Health Resource Team has also created a Peel Youth Mental Health Resources handout for families

• Consider the Kids’ Help Phone "Resources Around Me" service

• Make an appointment with your family doctor or nurse practitioner to ask about additional supports

• If your child or teen is in crisis, families may call Peel Children's Centre 24/7 Crisis Response Service (416-410-8615)

Additional Resources:

• Supporting a Child Experiencing a Mental Health Concern

• Helping Children and Youth who are Experiencing Thoughts of Suicide