Mental Health
Mental health is just as important to take care of and maintain as physical health is.
One in every 5 children and youth in Ontario have a mental health challenge. These issues can include anxiety, depression or self-harming behaviours. Some signs to look for are:
- Saying negative things about themselves
- Trouble concentrating
- Frequent negative thoughts
- Changes in school performance
- Seeming unhappy, worrisome, guilty, fearful, irritable or angry
- Wanting to be alone often
- Crying easily
- Showing less interest in sports, games or activities they otherwise enjoy
If your child or teen is struggling with mental health concerns, there's local resources and services available. Talk to:
- Your family physician or child's health care provider
- Pathstone Mental Health Crisis Line for a child or teen in crisis at 1-800-263-4944
- Niagara Region Mental Health for 14 years and older
- Contact Niagara at 905-684-3407
Family Education and Support
Caring for someone with mental illness can be overwhelming and stressful. It's important to take care of your own mental health and well-being with family education and support resources.
Learn about the different types of mental health concerns, like anxiety, depression and self-harm at teenmentalhealth.org.
Protect your Mental Health
Regardless of age, you can have better mental health if you:
- Eat well to support a healthy body and brain
- Are physically active, which reduces stress and helps with concentration
- Get enough sleep, which makes you more alert and able to cope with stress
Certain life circumstances can also help protect your mental health, including:
- Living in a safe community that's accepting, supportive and free of violence
- Having healthy and supportive relationships, which help you form meaningful connections
- Living in housing that's clean and well maintained
- Getting an education
© Niagara Region - 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold, ON, L2V 4T7 - Phone: 905-980-6000, Toll-free: 1-800-263-7215
