Mental Health

How do you know if you should be concerned about your child/teen’s mental well-being?

This pandemic has lasted longer and had a greater impact than many of us anticipated. Families have adapted and coped the best we can, however you may be concerned about the mental health and well-being of your child or teen. Mental health professionals have assured us that experiencing some sadness, worry or anger during these challenging times is normal. However, you may still be concerned that your child is suffering more- so how do you know?

Think about your relationship WITH your child:

W - When did the concern start? Has it been going on for some time?

I - How Intense is the concern for my child?

T - What is the Timing and how often does it happen? When and how often do you notice it?

H - How is the concern impacting my child and their daily life? Is my child less interested in previous activities, struggling to play, or having difficulty with eating/sleeping?

(Please note: This tip sheet is intended to provide guidance to parents/caregivers on when to access professional support, and should not be considered a replacement for consultation with a regulated Mental Health Professional).

Caregivers can help! When problems arise and feel too big, you can help your child manage in healthy ways by providing CARE:

C - Practice Calm together. Breathing together, spending time in nature together- whatever helps to create calm for you both.

A - Find the “Awesome” every day. Celebrate the positives and practice gratitude.

R - Set Routines that are easy to follow and include time for fun and rest.

E - Engage in physical activities together- get outside and enjoy nature!

If you are still unsure about whether your child may need support…

There are many caring professionals in our community that can help! You may want to reach out to your child’s school, or their doctor to share your observations and concerns. Your school may connect you with a school resource. Or, you may wish to access support through a community service provider.

Wellbeing and the mental health of our staff, students and families is incredibly important during this time. Staff members, please click here for information regarding our Employee Family Assistance Program (EFAP) for yourself and your family.

• School Mental Health Ontario
• Kid's Help Phone
• Ontario Health Agency
• Children's Centre Thunder Bay
• Talking to children about Covid-19
• Morneau Shepell Employee Family Assistance Program
• Working from Home

Child/Youth Counselling Services

Due to COVID-19, organizations are changing how they provide services to children, youth and families. To stay up to date on changes, please call before visiting and regularly check website information.

• Children's Centre Thunder Bay
  343-5000
  Children's mental health services continue to be offered. Services are provided by phone, internet or in-person based on screening. Call during regular business hours (8:30 am to 4:30 p.m.) for more information.
• Dilico Anishinabek Family Care: Child and Family Mental Health Services
  Phone-in for single-session counselling and for cultural support:
  Call 807-629-7554 - Mondays, Wednesday & Fridays 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  Call 807-624-7908 – Tuesdays and Thursdays 12:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
• Kid's Help Phone
  Text CONNECT to 686868
  Call 1-800-668-6868
  Chat Online