Continuing the Journey: Supporting Mental Health and Well-Being
Dear Families and Caregivers,
As we step into this new season together, we are reminded that every journey is unique. Whether we’re celebrating milestones, tackling challenges, or simply finding our rhythm after the winter break, this time of year offers a chance to reflect and grow.
For students, the return to school can bring a range of experiences. Some may feel excited to reconnect with friends or dive into learning, while others may find the transition a little more difficult. That’s why it’s important to meet our children where they are—offering encouragement, patience, and reassurance along the way. Taking a moment to check in with your child can let them know that you are listening, and that you value their perspectives and feelings.
For our secondary students, January often signals the approach of exam season, which can bring new challenges. Whether your child is experiencing exams for the first time or is already familiar with them, their feelings may range from confidence to stress or even uncertainty. We encourage you to share this resource from School Mental Health Ontario on how youth can manage test and exam stress: SMHO: Tips for managing test and exam stress. You may choose to read through these tips with your child and have a discussion about which tips might be most helpful for them. You might also encourage them to think about strategies that have worked well for them in the past as well.
As we navigate the colder months, let’s also remember the value of everyday moments that foster well-being. Whether it’s enjoying outdoor activities, or simply sharing a story, these connections help nurture a sense of belonging and joy.
Learning About Mental Health Presentation Series (LAMPS) for Parents and Caregivers
As a part of the implementation of the Strategy, we are providing parents/caregivers with the opportunity to participate in the Mental Health Presentation Series LAMPS (Learning About Mental Health Presentation Series). The presentation is scheduled for January 15th, 2025 at 6:00pm - 7:00pm and will be focused on Social Media and Mental Health. Parents and Caregivers who are interested can register and learn more about the presentation through this Google Form. Registration will close on January 13th, 2025.
Supportive Resources
Mental Health Resources in York Region
The Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) (905-781-6222)
NACCA is committed to the collective work of engaging the African Canadian communities and its allies through program delivery, education and partnerships, to cultivate an empowered and united Black community in Newmarket.
YorkHills Here to Help Line (905-503-9561)
The Here to Help Line is a free service available to children/youth (0-18 years) and their parents/caregiver/adult supporters. Monday to Thursday from 2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Family Services York Region (905-895-2371)
Virtual walk in is offered on a first come, first serve basis. It can be accessed once per month. Virtual appointments can be 15 minutes to 1.5 hours long depending on needs. Monday, Tuesday, Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
CMHA BounceBack Ontario
Do you feel that maybe you could benefit from some support? BounceBack® provides resources to support learning new skills, including a trained coach who can provide up to six telephone sessions. BounceBack Coaching is available through the provincial Ontario Structured Psychotherapy program. Offered to youth aged 15-17 and adults 18+.
YRDSB Mental Health Resource Page
Continue to check out the YRDSB website for updated information as well as the X account @YRDSB
Follow YRDSB Mental Health on Twitter @MH_YRDSB
Community Mental Health Events
Students
The Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
- T.E.A.C.H. Mental Health Workshop Series: The YSSI T.E.A.C.H. (Training, Empowerment, Advocacy, Counselling, Help) is an africentric program that offers education on mental health and well-being practices for Black children/youth. The eight-week workshop series is on mental health for Black children/youth in grades 6-8.
- Registration: T.E.A.C.H. Mental Health Workshop Series
Your Support Services Network
Kerry's Place Autism Services
Caregivers
Yorkhills Centre for Children, Youth and Families
- York Hills offers various workshops. Please click the above link to scroll through offerings.
Family Services York Region
- Free To Be
- Third Wednesday of Each Month, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
- This is a free virtual group for parents/caregivers of gender diverse children, regardless of age which meets once a month. The goal of this program is to destigmatize gender diversity.
Kinark Autism Services
PFlag
- Coffee Night, held every second Monday of the month, is a safe space where members of the LGBTQ2 community, their friends, family or allies can come together.
- Online Registration
This edition of the newsletter was written by the Student Mental Health and Addictions Strategy Implementation Team 2024-2025, inclusive of YRDSB School Social Workers Ruth Damdar, Yen Lee, Peter Reid and Kymani Spence.
Patricia Marra-Stapleton, M.Sc., C. Psych. Assoc.
Mental Health Lead
Paula Vicente M.S.W., R.S.W.
Assistant Coordinator of Mental Health
Kate Phillips M.S.W., R.S.W.
Assistant Coordinator of Mental Health
