What is mental health?
Mental health is a state of well-being that helps individuals reach their potential. When we have positive mental health, we can cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and make contributions to our communities.
Mental health problems are emotional, behavioural and brain-related problems that interfere with development, relationships and functioning. It's sometimes hard to recognize mental health problems. They can look like other difficulties, for example: aggression, avoidance or withdrawal.
Mental Health exists on a continuum. People can fluctuate between wellness and illness at different times in their life. When we recognize signs of mental health problems early and provide the right supports quickly, we can improve the outcomes for children and youth.
Early recognition of mental health problems and connection with helpful resources is important. If you are concerned about your child's mental health or if you are a student who is concerned about your own mental health, you can talk to someone at your school. Supportive school-based strategies, referrals to our Board mental health professionals and information about community mental health providers can be offered through our schools. Promotion of positive mental health and development of social and emotional learning strategies is an ongoing focus for the DDSB.
Building resiliency
Resiliency is the ability to handle life's ups and downs in positive ways, and the ability to deal with disappointments and bounce back from challenges. You can develop skills for resiliency when you are successfully engaged in school activities, have opportunities to develop positive relationship skills, and strengthen your confidence in problem solving. Adults, including parents and teachers, play an important role in helping a student engage in the school environment and access resources needed for success and wellbeing.
The Durham Region Health department provides resources to help kids and teens develop resiliency.
