Student & Parent Mental Health Resources from HDSB

The following resources have been added to the Student and Parent Mental Health and Well-Being sections on hdsb.ca.

The Cultural Mentorship Program supports youth age 12-18 who identify as being a part of the Black community. Our 8-10 week group program consists of discussions and activities that celebrate Caribbean and African history, carnival arts, music, cultural cooking, Black icons, understanding of rights and diaspora experiences. With the goal of safety and well-being, the Cultural Mentorship Program encourages youth to build a strong sense of cultural identity while forming community." Youth can self-refer. BigBrothers Big Sisters group mentoring -Cultural Mentorship Program

Grief, Bereavement and Loss

These 2 new tip sheets for parents have been added:

Finding the Words when Responding to a Death

Returning to School After a Death - How Can You Help?

Ecopsychology

As the outside world around us continues to become colourful and alive and the weather

consistently improves it seems like a great time to remind ourselves of the many health benefits of getting outside! Many of us find ourselves indoors and in front of a screen for many hours of the day and now more than ever we need to make a conscious effort to seek out and immerse ourselves in the great outdoors. Enjoy reading THIS article and then Get Outside!!

Stressed? Give Meditation a Try!

Students are at a point in the semester when stress levels can peak. Final evaluations paired with nice weather can affect concentration and focus. Meditation provides mental and physical benefits, such as better memory and cognition, and can lower blood pressure. This article explains the science behind meditation’s benefits. 

Convinced? Try this 10-minute meditation exercise and see how you feel afterward :)

10-Minute Daily Meditation

Kids Help Phone Support

Suicide and life promotion are two very important mental health concerns. You may be experiencing thoughts of suicide, or know someone who is having these thoughts. You may have experienced the death of someone by suicide. There is help available. 

If you, or someone you know is in crisis call KidsHelp Phone
Call a Counsellor: 1-800-668-6868
Text a Counsellor: 686868
Live Chat:https://kidshelpphone.ca/live-chat/ or
ROCK Crisis Line at 905-878-9785 is available 24 hours a day/7 days a week or call 911 now if someone is attempting to die by suicide. 

• Suicide: Important Things to Know (Kids Help Phone)

• Spotting Signs of Suicide - Video (Kids Help Phone)

• How can I cope with thoughts of suicide? (Kids Help Phone)

• How to help a Friend Navigate thoughts of Suicide (Kids Help Phone)

• Losing Someone to Suicide: How to Grieve and Heal (Kids Help Phone)

HDSB Parent Mental Health & Wellbeing Sessions

The HDSB is hosting sessions on mental health & well-being information for parents/guardians in May and June. These sessions cover specific topics based on feedback from parents/guardians. The sessions will be led by a mental health expert in that area who will share their knowledge and provide helpful information and resources.

• May 23rd, 2023 6-7pm: Prevention of Disordered Eating - Information & Registration Link

• June 1st, 2023 6-7pm: Cyberbullying - Parenting in Today's Online World - Information & Registration Link

HDSB Parent Mental Health & Wellbeing Sessions

The HDSB is hosting sessions on mental health & well-being information for parents/guardians in May and June. These sessions cover specific topics based on feedback from parents/guardians. The sessions will be led by a mental health expert in that area who will share their knowledge and provide helpful information and resources.

• May 11th, 2023 6-7pm: Empowering Parents: Supporting Children's Mental Well-Being in the Muslim Community  - Information & Registration Link

• May 23rd, 2023 6-7pm: Prevention of Disordered Eating - Information & Registration Link

• June 1st, 2023 6-7pm: Cyberbullying - Parenting in Today's Online World - Information & Registration Link

The following information is from School Mental Health Ontario (www.smho-smso.ca)

EAT 

We all need to refuel. But sometimes when we’re stressed, our habits can change – maybe we eat junk food, or don’t feel like eating at all. It is important to focus on eating foods that will provide you with the nutrients you need. Tip: Have a healthy snack nearby so you can refuel and avoid getting “hangry.”

SLEEP

Getting a healthy number of hours each night helps you to better deal with the stresses of everyday life. Tip: While you’re at home, try to set up a sleep routine that you can stick to. Plan to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. 

HYDRATE

Try to increase your water intake and decrease your caffeine intake. Caffeine has been shown to create a stress reaction in your body and might cause you to feel nervous, irritable, or restless. Tip: Drink a glass of water or milk before bed (but not too much!) rather than a caffeinated drink. This should help you sleep.

MOVE

Being physically active has many positive effects on your health. It increases your energy, enhances your immune system, reduces insomnia, stimulates brain growth and has been shown to decrease feelings of sadness. Tip: This doesn’t need to take much time. You can get these benefits of being physically active from just a 30-minute walk. Stuck inside? Check out YouTube for brief yoga routines, at-home workouts or track your steps, and challenge a friend!

ENJOY

Take time to discover things you enjoy. Do things that make you feel good as often as you can. It may not be what others find fun, and that’s okay! We’re all different! Tip: Maybe there’s a book you want to read, a show or movie you’ve been meaning to watch, a skill you’ve been interested in, or something new!

Student Well Being

Together with other HDSB students, Student Well-Being Groups are for students who would like to learn supportive coping skills in a small and confidential group setting. These groups are run by HDSB School Social Workers; HDSB Mental Health Psychologists and/or HDSB Child and Youth Counsellors.

Please note: If you are in crisis, please contact ROCK crisis line at 905-878-9785.

*Secondary students must register themselves using their HDSB email address*

There may be a high volume of interest in the program, and we will only be able to accept a limited number of students. 

AFFIRM Grades 9-12                                 Register Here!

A therapeutic group specifically for Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ youth to learn coping skills for anxiety and stress related to experiences of discrimination connected to their sexual and gender identities. The goals of AFFIRM are to decrease unhelpful thoughts, feel better about yourself and to make healthy choices for sexual and mental health. For ages 14+

 Virtually (Google Meet) on Tuesdays, April 25 - June 13; 4:30-6:00pm 

TRAILS Anxiety for Grades 9-12            Register Here!

Are you having feelings of stress, worry, and anxiety? Do you want to learn some skills to help to cope with these feelings?

If you would like to connect in person with other HDSB students and Social Workers  in a therapeutic group, please join us!

In Person on Mondays, May 1- June 12; 4pm-5pm

Garth Webb Secondary School (2820 Westoak Trails Blvd, Oakville)

(*No group holiday Monday May 22nd*)

School Mental Health Ontario (SMHO) has released this new resource 'Supporting the Mental Health Needs of Newcomer Students' here. 

School Mental Health Ontario

The following information is from School Mental Health Ontario (www.smho-smso.ca)

What can I do to help if my child is struggling with their mental health?

• In non-urgent situations, there are many ways that parents can provide support when their child is experiencing feelings of sadness, anger, worry, etc. Here are a few ideas:

• Stay calm. Take care of yourself  and your own wellness so you can be in a good place to help your child.

• Try to take pressure off where you can. For example, reduce the number of chores they take on, avoid talking about things causing you stress, try not to expose them to worrisome news in the media.

• Listen to your child as they describe their thoughts and emotions. Just listening, and reflecting back what you hear, goes a long way to helping your child to feel heard and supported. Try not to judge, jump in with quick solutions, or minimize the concern.

• Inspire hope, Even if you don’t know the answers, or if solutions seem a long way away, reassure your child that you will find a way through it together.

• Help your child to look for positives and things to be grateful for, even in tough situations. Sometimes when worries overwhelm us, we focus on all that is wrong and forget to remember all the good things, and helpers, that can get us through. You can offer some suggestions and even make a list to post somewhere as a reminder.

• Sometimes when people feel anxious or upset, deep calming breathing can help. It can help us to slow down and think more clearly. 

• If your child is experiencing a low mood, one of the best things they can do is to get active. Even 15-20 minutes of physical movement that raises their heart rate can help them to feel better. 

• If you are able, try to spend one-on-one time with your child each day, even 10-15 minutes, where you are there to just be with them. Follow their lead, and let them pick the activity that you will do together.

When should I reach out for additional help?

If your child does not seem to be improving with the actions you have tried, and if you are still feeling worried about their well-being, it might be time to reach out for more help.

Certainly, if your child is engaging in self-harm behaviour (e.g. cutting or burning themselves, taking risky actions or escalating substance misuse) or if you learn that they are having thoughts of suicide, seek immediate assistance. 

In the community - contact Children's Mental Health Ontario to access free, mental health treatment in your area, including walk-in clinics (virtual and in-person), ongoing counseling and therapy, and intensive and specialized treatment. No referrals are necessary.

Resources you may wish to visit:

About Kids Mental Health Resource

Mental Health Commission of Canada

Ontario Centre of Excellence for Child and Youth Mental Health

School Mental Health Ontario (www.smho-smso.ca)

How can I get ready to approach my child if I am concerned about their mental health?

It can be challenging to talk with your child about mental health problems. However, research tells us that when parents discuss their concerns with them, it opens up the lines of communication and may help improve the situation.

Remember to take the time and prepare yourself for a calm discussion. You may feel anxious about what you are noticing in your child. So, it is a good idea to take a moment to care for your own wellness before you approach your child about this. Perhaps you might take some deep breaths or go for a walk to relax. Or settle your thoughts in a way that works for you (e.g. drawing your attention gently to one thing you see, one thing you hear, and one thing you feel).

How can I talk to my child about mental health?

• Find a quiet time when you are unlikely to have interruptions to begin the conversation

• Reassure your child that they can tell you anything and you will not get angry with them (even if you get scared).

• Start the conversation by describing changes you have noticed in their mood, behaviour, reactions (e.g. “I have noticed that you seem to be crying more.”) If you have had conversations with your child’s teacher about concerns, include comments from the teacher’s observations.

Resources you may wish to visit:

CMHO Family Care Centre

CHMA-Ontario

Anxiety Canada

Wellness Together Canada

Sending Sunshine Club

The Sending Sunshine Club makes greeting cards for residents in long-term care facilities. Students earn a half hour of community service for every card made. Many seniors struggle with isolation and loneliness, as well as continued Covid outbreaks, in long-term care. A friendly card with an uplifting message can really brighten someone’s day. Any students are welcome to join us Mondays at lunch in the ESL room to participate. Click on the link below for more information:

https://www.sendingsunshine.ca/

Google Classroom: wsxc23o

Black Mental Health Week

TAIBU Community Health Centre, in partnership with the City of Toronto, hosted the inaugural Black Mental Health Day in March, 2020, citing the Toronto Black community’s demand to end 400 years of oppression and the ongoing mental health impact of persistent, systemic anti-Black racism in all settings.

Partly due to high-profile incidents of anti-Black racism in 2020, a groundswell of momentum is slowly improving awareness and strengthening the demand from communities across the globe, to improve understanding and to initiate action to end anti-Black racism and the negative mental health impact it causes where Black communities live, work and play.

This year, Tropicana Community Services and Strides Toronto join TAIBU Community Health Centre to ensure more voices are heard.

Check out this year’s resources here: https://blackmentalhealthweek.ca/

• SMHO Supporting Mentally Healthy Conversations about Anti-Black Racism

• Understanding Anti-Black Racism to support the mental health and well-being of Black students

• Self Love Practices for Black Youth Social Media Bundle SMHO

• Bill 178 Black Mental Health Day Act

• Supportive Responses and Conversations

Community Resources:

Roots Community Services 

• Supports Children, Youth, Families, Seniors

• People who Identify as Black, and are from African and Caribbean backgrounds.

• Culturally Responsive Counseling:

• Building Healthy Families Program, Contact is 905-455-6789.

1. Helping Black Families Remain Together

2. Helping Black Families be Supported By a Therapist who is Culturally Responsive.

• Roots Community Services BAC (Black, African, Caribbean) Crisis Line.  

                   Contact is 647-812-8545.

        Service available:  Monday- Friday 9 am - 7 pm

Black Youth HelpLine   416-285-9944

• National Helpline for youth and their families.

• Focus is Primary Prevention

• 3 Strategic Pillars: Education- Supporting Youth To Stay In School

                              Health- Caring for our Minds and Bodies

                              Community-Caring and growing as a community.

Rise Up - Kids Help Phone

• Black youth across Canada can access free wellness support 24/7 by texting RISE to 686868.

Take a Break!

At this point in the semester, evaluations are just starting to ramp up. Here are some tips on how students can take care of themselves during those long homework and study sessions:

Use your breaks wisely

• Try to engage is some kind of movement - get up and walk around, stretch

• Get a change of scenery - if possible, leave the room, go outside, or at least move to a different place in the room for a few minutes

• Have a snack, get a drink

• Clear your mind - disengage from the subject and do something that does not require the same type of brain activity (listen to soothing music, close your eyes, chat with a friend); avoid using your whole break to be on your phone, as it does not give your brain the needed rest from screens or processing of information 

• Respect your limit of “saturation point”. If you find yourself struggling to sustain attention for an extended period of time, walk away and take a break.

Take care of yourself

• Get enough sleep (around 8 hours/night) - lack of sleep will absolutely reduce your brain’s ability to maintain focus and attention

• Watch your diet, eat breakfast, and eat throughout the day - maintaining concentration requires a great deal of your brain’s energy throughout the day, and so it is important to make sure that you are giving your body the fuel it needs to allow your brain to function at its best

• Get regular exercise - often it can help to time your exercise so you engage in physical activity before you will need to focus

Need some helpful technology? Try these: Stay Focused with these 5 Google Chrome Extensions

Tips for Maximizing Focus and Attention

Your brain is a bit like a computer, and like a computer it will go into “sleep mode” if it stays inactive for too long (or it will look for other things to interest it and “wake” it up). One trick to focusing your best is to do things that keep your mind busy and active, in a way that is connected to the lesson.

Participate Actively in Class - the more engaged you can remain in what is happening in the classroom, the less likely your mind will wander

• Get involved in the class discussion

• Ask a question

• Take notes - taking notes provides as “anchor” between what your mind is doing and what the teacher is saying, making it more likely your mind will stay on topic; it gives you something to do and makes you process the lesson more deeply

Remove Distractions

• Sit at the front or as close to it as possible - this minimizes the number of distractions that will occur between you and the teacher

• Avoid sitting with friends

• Put your phone out of sight and earshot (and/or shut it off or put it on silent)

If you’re having difficulty staying focused, you can:

• Engage is small, purposeful movements, such as wiggling your toes, doing a few neck rolls or other small stretches, changing your position

• Consider using a fidget tool - anything small and quiet - if you find you’re becoming distracted by the object itself, choose something else that is less interesting (i.e. paper clip, bracelet, eraser, etc.)

• Set small goals and rewards (i.e. if I can finish this next task, I will ask to go to fill up my water bottle)

Physical movement can be a way of recharging your mental batteries! If these movements take you off task, this might not be the strategy for you! You have to know what works for you :)

Self-Care Resources

With the first couple weeks of semester 2 finished, there is a much needed reminder to pause and acknowledge our appreciation and gratitude for change and renewal. This is a great time to take a closer look at our routines and habits and to make a commitment to grow and change in our own daily lives. The articles linked below offer some tips for changing and improving self-care and although many of the ideas are small and subtle, the impact can be dramatic and profound. 

The Science of Self-Care

Practicing Self-Care When Time is Hard to Find

Mental Health & Wellbeing Resources

Need some quick how-to-videos on how to relax? HDSB has student-made videos which quickly go through how to regulate difficult emotions, balance your thinking, and practice deep breathing exercises.There are also a couple on how to help your mental health:

HDSB YouTube Channel - Well Being Skills for Students

Our Social Worker, Nidi Bedi, created a QR code for students who need help when they are feeling anxious/upset and need support to calm down at school. She says, “it has five short activities such as deep breathing (guided videos), progressive muscle relaxation, grounding, affirmations, and gratitude they can choose from. Students can do these strategies themselves or you can guide them through it if they need adult support."

ROCK Programs

Community Groups - Information from ROCK (Reach Out Centre for Kids) https://rockonline.ca/

My Hair My Crown a weekly group to talk about hair, identity and anti-black racism in the media and for all genders aged 14-17 who identify as Black, Brown or Mixed Race. Monday nights March - May. Call ROCK to register.

Eating Empowered a cooking group for youth aged 12-16. Tuesdays after school in Georgetown. During each session the group will prepare a meal, have some fun, and discuss the importance of honouring our hunger cues. Call ROCK to register.

Authentically Me is a 4 week body acceptance and media literacy program for female identifying and non-binary youth aged 15-17. Begins March  21st 4:30-6:00 pm in Oakville. Call ROCK to register.

Benefits of Meditation

With the cold weather and a change in semester, now is a good time to reset and refocus on the months ahead. Meditation is an excellent way to reduce stress and may even decrease the severity of physical ailments. The following article explains these benefits:

Meditation: A Simple, Fast Way to Reduce Stress

The following videos are 5 and 10 minute meditation sessions you can do anywhere.

5-Minute Meditation You Can Do Anywhere

Daily Calm | 10 Minute Mindfulness Meditation | Be Present

Enjoy and stay well :)

HDSB Mental Health Resources

In the parent section for student well-being on hdsb.ca, you’ll find Heartache2Hope which offers grief and bereavement individual and group counselling for adults, children and youth who have experienced a suicide loss. 

For more information or to register, email Amanda at amanda@Heartache2Hope.com or call 905-599-4673. To speak with someone live, please call our HopeLine at 289-474-5508 on Mondays or Thursdays from 1:00-4:00pm.

In the student section for student well-being on hdsb.ca, these stress resources are available:  Stressed Out at School? Bounce Back, and Exam Stress Brochure

Also in this student section you’ll find these new resources:

Support for Black youth: RiseUp through Kids Help Phone  information and connect with a counsellor by texting RISE to 686868. Peer support is also available 

Support for First Nations Inuit and Metis youth through Kids Help Phone  information and connect with a counsellor by texting  FIRST NATIONS, INUIT or METIS to 686868.

YMCA Mental Wellness Program for Youth

The YMCA is offering a free 8-week mental wellness program for teens (13-18 years old) with anxiety and stress. Learn to cope with Stress virtual group. No formal diagnosis required! The next session starts Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at 4:00 pm (Virtual). What you get: A $25 gift card, a free 3-month complimentary YMCA fitness membership and a free workbook filled with coping strategies.

Contact frances.anderson@ymcahbb.ca or call/text: 365-889-3612.

ROCK Group Opportunities in 2023

ROCK Crew - For male identifying youth 13-16 to build life skills, positive peer relationships, and resiliency through fun games and experiences (Burlington)

EngageMENt - for male identifying youth to make friends and learn how society influences how we think, feel, and behave (Oakville)

BRAVE - empowering 2SLGBTQIA+ 9-13 children to take action against bullying (Georgetown)

Proud to Be Me - for queer BIPOC youth aged 11-14 to hold space to explore societal pressures to change our appearance based on societal values rooted in colonial beauty standards

FIT Families in Transition - Empowering families to help their Trans, Non-Binary, and/or Gender Questioning Youth feel fully supported at home

Youth or families can request information, or sign up for these groups by calling ROCK’s Live Answer Line at

289-266-0036.

New on the HDSB

Student Support for Well-Being

In the section on grief, bereavement and loss: they have added Youth Grief which has been developed — from content to art to design — by grieving youth, for grieving youth.

It shares wisdom, experiences, and advice from more than 30 young people who’ve been there and know what it’s like to grieve when someone you care about has died.

New Under 2SLGBTQIA+

They have added The Get Real Movement which strives to make positive environments for 2SLGBTQ+ youth and allies through mentorship.

Also check out zines and well-being strategies for 2SLGBTQ+ youth.

New Well-Being Resources for Families

Check out these valuable resources at hdsb.ca on the Parent Well-Being site!

Under strategies for supporting your child’s mental health and well-being, there is a designated section for 2SLGBTQIA+. PFLAG Halton offers a safe space (online and in person) where parents and caregivers of gender-diverse kids (all ages) can come together to ask questions and support each other. Having a gender-diverse child is a unique experience, so this is a judgment-free place where you can share your thoughts, feelings, and worries. 

In the grief, bereavement, and loss section, they have added: Acclaim Health Kids Anticipatory Grief and Bereavement (0-18)  or call 905-827-8800 or

1-800-387-7127.

In the Stress and coping section, they have added: Managing Screen Time - Tips for Parents and Strong Mind Strong Kids - Psychology Foundation tips sheets, strategies, videos on how to recognize and help your child and teen cope with stress

There are also these resources for parents related to bullying, cyberbullying:

· Strategies for Parents when your child is being bullied (Prevnet)

· Parenting in a Digital Age: Understanding Kids and Technology (Prevnet)

· What parents can do about Cyberbullying (Prevnet)

The Downside of Social Media

Social media entertains us, engages us, and connects us. There are positive aspects of social media, but there are so many negative ones: cyber-bullying, social isolation, negative self-image, and addiction are just to name a few. In a Pew Research study, 45% of teens admit to being online “almost constantly.”

The following article from Columbia University not only describes how teens’ mental health is affected by social media, but it offers strategies on how to have a healthier relationship and mindset when handling its overwhelming presence:

Is Social Media Threatening Teens' Mental Health and Well-being?

Mindfulness & Meditation

5-Minute Meditation You Can Do Anywhere

Daily Calm | 10 Minute Mindfulness Meditation |Be Present

Meditation: A Simple, Fast Way to Reduce Stress

With the cold weather now upon us and shorter days, now is a good time to reset and refocus on the months ahead. Meditation is an excellent way to reduce stress and may even decrease the severity of physical ailments. The following article explains these benefits:

The following videos are 5 and 10 minute meditation sessions you can do anywhere.

Enjoy and stay well :)

Help is Available

Sometimes reaching out for help by just talking to someone is the most difficult step when dealing with a personal issue or crisis. Students and parents should reach out to a supportive person they trust when they need help. This article provides general guidelines on how to do this:

Reaching Out for Help

If you or anyone you know is struggling or in crisis, here is a link to community supports in Halton:

Halton Community Supports

Stay well :)

Importance of Self-Care

November can be a tough, long month but it doesn’t have to be! Self-care is so important at this time of year. Self-care is anything you do to take care of yourself so you can stay physically, mentally, and emotionally well. Its benefits are better physical, mental, and emotional health and well-being. Research suggests self-care promotes positive health outcomes, such as fostering resilience, living longer, and becoming better equipped to manage stress.

Common examples of self-care include: maintaining a regular sleeping routine, eating healthy, spending time in nature, doing a hobby you enjoy, and expressing gratitude. Self-care can look different for everyone, but to count as self-care, the behaviour should promote health and happiness for you.

This article provides specific activities and strategies for self-care. Happy November!

SAD Prevention Strategies

It’s the beginning of that time of year when we have to put those heavier coats on and we start noticing the darker mornings and earlier darkness in the evenings. In a week (Nov. 6 @ 2am) we will turn the clocks back an hour and, although we appreciate the extra hour of sleep, we will notice the lack of daylight even more. Knowing this is approaching, why not get a head start with some strategies on how to prevent potential seasonal depression? Eating and sleeping well are even more important at this time of year, so take a look at the tips provided HERE and enjoy the fall while it lasts!

Community Youth Programs

Wanting to connect with other students in the community?

The Community Outreach Coordinator for the YMCA of Oakville has provided flyers for their upcoming Youth Program offerings. The programs are offered for FREE in the community for youth. This Fall they are offering 3 programs: Together As Girls on Thursdays 5-7 PM, Youth Peace Committee (obtain volunteer hours for participation on committee) VIRTUAL Tuesdays 5-6 PM and Engage, Empower, Connect (STEAM style program) Tuesdays 4-5 PM. Please take a look at the linked flyers for further details on each program.

Post Secondary Tips

Grade 11s and 12s have started feeling the pressures involved with thinking about their post-secondary destinations. For those students interested in university, the University of Waterloo and McMaster University offer some tips when making decisions about programs.

How to Choose a University Program

5 Tips for Picking a University Program

Need help choosing a pathway? This article offers some interesting ideas to establish a mindset about possible career journeys. The more self-reflection the better!

Student Mental Health & Well-being

The HDSB has created 16 parent videos sharing how HDSB staff roles support student’s mental health and well-being. They are short, informative videos that remind our community who to turn to for student support:

· What are circles of support for student well-being?

· If I have concerns about my secondary child’s mental health and well-being, who can I contact at school?

· What is the impact of secondary Guidance Counsellors on student mental health?

· What are teachers doing in the classroom to support secondary students' mental health and well-being?

See here for all 16 videos.

Welcome Back!

Our Clubs and Councils are in full swing and GWSS has so many options for students. Our updated list is here. There is something for everyone! Joining a club is not only important for student engagement, but for overall mental health. Being part of a club improves social development and instills a sense of belonging. It can improve self-esteem and build a student’s interests. Positive habits are also developed in terms of time management, community involvement, and following through on goals. We encourage all students to take a chance and get involved.

How Important are High School Clubs?

Benefits of Extracurricular Activities for Kids

Self-Care, Mindfulness & Good News

Self-care is always important, however in times of stress self-care becomes crucial to maintain our physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. This article reminds us that these are unique times and that we need to make sure we afford ourselves extra self-care. Here are some excellent mindfulness exercises for you to explore as a way of finding some grounding and quiet space.

Looking for some happy and good news in the midst of all that is happening in the world today? This site aims to share all the good that exists around us and this is so important for us to remember right now. Enjoy!

Season of Change and Growth

The arrival of the hot weather this past week has both been a much needed reminder to pause and acknowledge our appreciation and gratitude for the predictability of season change and renewal. Acknowledging this period of new growth and change in nature can be a helpful way of connecting to the idea and possibility of growth and change in ourselves and in our personal lives as well. This period of hope, growth, and renewal is a great time to take a closer look at our routines and habits and to make a commitment to grow and change in our own daily lives. The articles linked below offer some tips for changing and improving self-care and although many of the ideas are small and subtle, the impact can be dramatic and profound. 

The Science of Self-Care

Practicing Self-Care When Time is Hard to Find

Meditation

During their meeting last week, the Wellbeing Club participated in a meditation session. Students are at a point in the semester when stress levels can peak. Final evaluations paired with nice weather can affect concentration and focus. Meditation provides mental and physical benefits, such as better memory and cognition, and can lower blood pressure. This article explains the science behind meditation’s benefits. 

Convinced? Try this 10-minute meditation exercise and see how you feel afterward :)

10-Minute Daily Meditation

Stay well :)

Ecopsychology

As the outside world around us continues to become colourful and alive and the weather consistently improves it seems like a great time to remind ourselves of the many health benefits of getting outside!

Many of us find ourselves indoors and in front of a screen for many hours of the day and now more than ever we need to make a conscious effort to seek out and immerse ourselves in the great outdoors.

Enjoy reading THIS article and then Get Outside!!

Self Care

Self care is always important, however, during times of stress, self care becomes crucial to maintain our physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. This article reminds us that we need to make sure we afford ourselves extra self care.

Here are some excellent mindfulness exercises for you to explore as a way of finding some grounding and quiet space.

How to Talk to Children About the War in Ukraine

This article from Psychology Today How to Talk to Children About the War in Ukraine - 7 tips for easing worries provides strategies on how to approach conversations about trauma and war.

In the community, ROCK has a therapist that speaks both Russian and Ukrainian. Referral is via ASN Access and Service Navigation at ROCK: ROCK - ASN.

The Power of the Flower

Last week, the Wellbeing Club made flower arrangements for a friend or family member to show appreciation. Students are telling us that learning a little can go a long way when it comes to mental wellness. Small things can have a big impact. Something simple like getting flowers from a friend can really make a bad day brighter.

Having some strategies to use when life gets stressful is invaluable and having friends to share positive moments with is what wellness is all about. 

The Wellbeing Club meets on Thursdays @ 11:30 am in the ESL room (across from Student Services). New members are always welcome!

The Impact of Flowers on Mental Health

How To Achieve The Well-Being Bouquet Trend

Danielle’s Place

Danielle’s Place provides targeted prevention and early intervention programs and services for youth 17 and under who are at risk of or are expressing concerns around low self-esteem, body image, or who have a preoccupation with food and weight. All Danielle’s Place services at the Reach Out Centre for Kids (R.O.C.K.) are 2SLGTBQIA+ friendly. 

There are free virtual workshops for female students ages 12-17. ‘Virtual Dove Confident Me’ and ‘Authentically Me’ focus on issues such as body image, sociocultural pressure to conform to appearance ideals, and how to advocate for positive body image in the community. Click this link for more information and how to register.

Sexual Health Program

SAVIS of Halton is offering a four day relationship and sexual health program for high school youth over March Break. They will meet via Zoom from March 14—17 @ 10 am—12 pm to discuss topics such as sexual decision making, safe sex, how to deal with rejection, sexual orientation, and gender diversity.

Youth who participate in all 4 sessions will receive a gift from SAVIS including a gift certificate. You can sign up now by clicking this link.

10 Mintues to Calm

Need some quick how-to-videos on how to relax? HDSB has student-made videos which quickly go through how to regulate difficult emotions, balance your thinking, and practice deep breathing exercises:

HDSB YouTube Channel - Well Being Skills for Students

Our Social Worker, Nidhi Bedi, created a QR code for students who need help when they are feeling anxious/upset and need support to calm down at school. She says, “it has five short activities such as deep breathing (guided videos), progressive muscle relaxation, grounding, affirmations and gratitude they can choose from. They can do these strategies themselves or you can guide them through it if they need adult support.”

Use the QR code to the left to access the activities. Stay well :)

Wellbeing Club

The Wellbeing Club is a student-led club that meets on Thursdays at lunch in room 1043 (classroom across from Student Services). They are interested in de-stressing and leading activities that help with mental wellness. They are looking for more student involvement to organize some school-wide activities (within COVID protocols). Some activities in semester 1 were crafts and snacks, colouring, meditation, and just chatting. Students from all grades are welcome to join. 

Teacher Contacts: Ms. Wyne (wyne@hdsb.ca) and Ms. Mactaggart (mactaggartk@hdsb.ca)

Here’s to a less stressful semester 2! :)

Mindfulness & Meditation

With the cold weather and a change in semester, now is a good time to reset and refocus on the months ahead. Meditation is an excellent way to reduce stress and may even decrease the severity of physical ailments. The following article explains these benefits:

Meditation: A Simple, Fast Way to Reduce Stress

The following videos are 5 and 10 minute meditation sessions you can do anywhere. Enjoy and stay well :)

5 Minute Meditation You Can Do Anywhere

10 Minute Mindfulness Meditation

Mental Health Supports for Students

HDSB Social Workers, along with the Mental Health and Addiction Nurses, will be offering a series of mental health and wellness sessions for students each month. 

Each month, a new topic will be covered in a 45-minute Google Meet with the intention of providing strategies to improve sleep, boost mood and manage stress. These 45-minute drop-in sessions will be offered several times in the month. Whether you are dropping in on your phone or joining us from home, make yourself comfortable and listen in! These short mini-sessions will be offered virtually during the school day and after school.  

Drop in Wellness Session Topics:

January: Stress Busting - This time of year can feel challenging and stressful as the semester wraps up. This session will provide ways to help deal more effectively with feeling “stressed out” 

February: Healthy Relationships - Friendships, Family, or Dating: learn about managing conflict; communication; healthy boundaries; safety

March: Forming Healthy Habits - Learning the importance of building consistent routines and how to form healthy habits for overall wellness, so it lasts!

If students are interested in signing up for any or all of these sessions, please use this link to register:

Mini Topics Jan-March Sign Up

Benefits of Yoga

Looking to stay active while reducing your stress during the holiday break? Give yoga a try! The following articles explain the benefits of yoga followed by a 20 minute workout.

9 Benefits of Yoga

Yoga: Fight stress and find serenity

Yoga for Complete Beginners - 20 Minute Home Yoga Workout!

What Are the Holiday Blues?

The holidays can be a joyous time with loved ones, but can also be an emotional and stressful time. 

According to verywellmind.com, “Feelings of sadness that last throughout the holiday season are often referred to as the holiday blues or holiday depression. The holidays are usually viewed as a time of happiness and rejoicing. But for some people, it can be a period of painful reflection, sadness, loneliness, anxiety, and depression.”

The following articles offer some strategies for helping those that feel overwhelmed and stressed at this time of year:

What we know about the holiday blues

Here are the people most prone to the holiday blues and how to help them

Stay well :)

HDSB Mental Health Resources

The Halton District School Board has many valuable resources for parents and students to support their mental health. Click the link below to access these resources which cover areas such as stress and anxiety, racial injustice, and support for LGBT+ groups:

Mental Health and Well-Being

Stay Well :)

HDSB Social Workers, along with the Mental Health and Addiction Nurses, are continuing to offer a series of mental health and wellness sessions for students in December and January.

A topic will be covered in a 45-minute Google Meet with the intention of providing strategies to boost mood and manage stress. These 45-minute drop-in sessions will be offered several times in the month. Whether students are dropping in on their phone or joining us from home, they can make themselves comfortable and listen in! These short mini-sessions will be offered during the school day and after school.  

Mini Info Topics:

December: Managing Difficult Feelings - Sometimes our emotions can be overwhelming. This session will offer some tips on how to manage our intense emotions. 

January: Stress Busting - This time of year can feel challenging and stressful as the semester wraps up. This session will provide ways to help deal more effectively with feeling “stressed out” 

If students are interested in any of these Mini Info Topic sessions, please have them sign up using this form: Sign-up for Mini Info Topics.

Reaching Out for Help

Sometimes reaching out for help by just talking to someone is the most difficult step when dealing with a personal issue or crisis. Students and parents should reach out to a supportive person they trust when they need help. This article provides general guidelines on how to do this: Reaching Out For Help

If you or anyone you know is struggling or in crisis, here is a link to community supports in Halton: Halton Community Supports

Stay well :)

Social Media

Social media entertains us, engages us, and connects us. There are positive aspects of social media, but there are so many negative ones: cyber-bullying, social isolation, negative self-image, and addiction are just to name a few. In a Pew Research study, 45% of teens admit to being online “almost constantly.”

The following article from Columbia University not only describes how teens’ mental health is affected by social media, but it offers strategies on how to have a healthier relationship and mindset when handling its overwhelming presence:

Is Social Media Threatening Teens'

Mental Health and Well-being?

Self-Care Activities & Strategies

November can be a tough, long month but it doesn’t have to be! Self-care is essential to avoid the November blahs.

Self-care is anything you do to take care of yourself so you can stay physically, mentally, and emotionally well. Its benefits are better physical, mental, and emotional health and well-being. Research suggests self-care promotes positive health outcomes, such as fostering resilience, living longer, and becoming better equipped to manage stress.

Common examples of self-care include: maintaining a regular sleeping routine, eating healthy, spending time in nature, doing a hobby you enjoy, and expressing gratitude. Self-care can look different for everyone, but to count as self-care, the behaviour should promote health and happiness for you.

This article provides specific activities and strategies for self-care. Here's to a happy November!

Preventing Seasonal Depression

It’s the beginning of that time of year when we have to put those heavier coats on and we start noticing the darker mornings and earlier darkness in the evenings. In a week (Nov. 7 @ 2am) we will turn the clocks back an hour and, although we appreciate the extra hour of sleep, we will notice the lack of daylight even more.

Knowing this is approaching, why not get a head start with some strategies on how to prevent potential seasonal depression? Eating and sleeping well are even more important at this time of year, so take the tips provided HERE and enjoy the fall while it lasts!

Time Management & Organization

Why do we procrastinate? This article explains reasons why we may procrastinate and offers tips to avoid it. There can be a significant impact on our mental health if we allow things to pile up in our lives. Time management and organizational skills can really make a difference in reducing our very long lists of things to get done. 

Time management and organization are skills that need to be acquired and worked on consistently. Developing a system of organization and using time wisely and efficiently can lower stress levels, lead to a sense of focus, calm, and ultimately have a positive impact on our overall well-being. This article provides 10 concrete strategies and tips to help maximize time and build focus which in turn will lead to greater organization and efficiency!

Post Secondary Pathways

Grade 11s and 12s have started feeling the pressures involved with thinking about their post-secondary destinations. For those students interested in university, the University of Waterloo and McMaster University offer some tips when making decisions about programs.

How to Choose a University Program

5 Tips for Picking a University Program

Need help choosing a pathway? This article offers some interesting ideas to establish a mindset about possible career journeys. The more self-reflection the better!

The Importance of Extra Curriculars

As a staff, we have noticed the tremendous student interest and turn-out for clubs this year. GWSS has so many options for students. There is something for everyone!

Joining a club is not only important for student engagement, but for overall mental health. Being part of a club improves social development and instills a sense of belonging. It can improve self-esteem and build on a student’s interests. Positive habits are also developed in terms of time management, community involvement, and following through on goals. Our clubs and councils list is updated daily on our website and we encourage all students to take a chance and get involved.

How Important are High School Clubs?

Benefits of Extracurricular Activities for Kids

Pre Pandemic Return to Routine & Self Care

This article discusses how we may feel exhausted and anxious about returning to “normal’ pre-pandemic activities and routines. Many of us learned how to slow down and embrace time at home with our families and may feel like we are losing that quality time now with school and work ramping up. The article suggests how we do not have to abandon our old “normal” with our new “normal”, but prioritize self-care to live more balanced lives. 

On the topic of self-care, this article explains how exercise benefits mental health. Just 15-30 minutes a day of moderate exercise can boost our mood! 

We've Made It… You Are Doing a Good Job!

This has been a school year like no other. The challenges and emotional ups and downs have been unprecedented and yet here we are...we have all made it! Any time we come out on the other side of a significant challenge it is so important to really pause and reflect on how we did it. To think about what we learned, what carried us through the hardest moments and what we can take away as we move forward. Self-reflection allows us to grow and this growth has a direct impact on our mindset. We can, and have all done really hard things this school year and it is so important to recognize and celebrate this fully. 

This short video reminds us that we are all doing a "good job" and we need to honour that and a warning you might want to grab some tissues before watching! As we head into a well-deserved summer break I encourage you all to continue focusing on your mental health and well-being and I wish you all a relaxing and rejuvenating summer and always remember that #mindsetmatters!

Resilience...It's a Mindset!

The words resilience and well-being are very common these days, especially when looking at how we are all managing through these times of lockdown and uncertainty. This article, written in "pre-pandemic times" explores the difference between resilience and well-being and makes some very interesting and helpful distinctions between these two words. Both of these terms and concepts are important to understand, however as this article echos, now more than ever it is crucial to understand and focus on growing our resilient mindset. This article serves as yet another reminder that our mindset truly does matter!

What if We… Don’t Return to School as Usual

As we begin to get a clearer picture of what school may look like in September it is also interesting to reflect on how much has changed in the world around us as well. Thinking ahead to a new school year with optimism and excitement also provides an opportunity to pause, reflect, and perhaps reset and reinvent what the world of education can and may look like for students. 

This article asks some very good questions and encourages us all to think about how education may, and in some cases should, change to more accurately reflect our world. This article challenges our mindset around education and encourages us all to really stop and think!

Get Outside!

As the outside world around us continues to become colourful and alive and the weather consistently improves it seems like a great time to remind ourselves of the many health benefits of getting outside! 

Many of us find ourselves indoors and in front of a screen for many hours of the day and now more than ever we need to make a conscious effort to seek out and immerse ourselves in the great outdoors. Enjoy reading this article and then Get Outside!! 

Focusing on Building Resilience and Beating Pandemic Burnout

This article explores a phenomena that we are likely all familiar with: pandemic exhaustion. It is important to acknowledge how tiring and difficult this last year has been and even more imperative to focus on how we actively work to not allow pandemic exhaustion to become full blown burnout. 

Feel like you need some help bolstering or building your resilience? Try the 20 tips outlined in this article and you might find yourself amazed at the impact this change of focus can have on your mindset!

Finally, here are 30 small tasks to complete daily throughout the month of June to help you improve your well-being and clarity of mind. (note: this resource is from June 2020 but it is still highly relevant so I thought it was worth the re-share!)

Self-Care & Mindfulness

Self-care is always important, however in times of stress and uncertainty self-care becomes crucial to maintain our physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. This article reminds us that these are unique times and that we need to make sure we afford ourselves extra self-care.

Here are some excellent mindfulness exercises for you to explore as a way of finding some grounding and quiet space.

Gratitude Attitude… Give it a Try!

As the days of lockdown and the pandemic drag on it becomes very easy to get trapped in a negative and hopeless mindset. It tends to feel harder to find the positives in our day to day lives. Making an intentional effort to have a growth mindset and actively choosing to focus on the positive and the good, however small it may be, can have a huge and powerful impact. This video clip offers some insight into the daily practice of gratitude and also highlights the power of a "gratitude attitude"! 

Here is a great resource to support your well-being and gratitude practice daily and although this is from May 2020, it is still very relevant and useful!

Finally, as we reflect on developing a gratitude attitude, it seems very appropriate to acknowledge and appreciate all the Moms and important motherly figures in our lives this Mother's Day weekend. This short video reminds us of the power of being in the moment and choosing gratitude, even amongst all the busyness and chaos of daily life. Grab a few tissues and enjoy!! 

The Way We Talk to Ourselves Matters!

Self-talk is the constant narrative that is running in our heads. This narrative is powerful and has an impact on how we see ourselves and how we interact with the people and world around us. This article explores self-talk and its impact on our physical and mental health while also offering some very practical steps to improve the way we talk to ourselves. It is important to acknowledge that showing ourselves compassion and patience is powerful and we need to remember that we deserve to care for ourselves in this way.

There’s a Name for the Blah You’re Feeling: It’s Called Languishing

As students wrap up quadmester 3 and begin gearing up for quadmester 4 they may be finding this shift a little difficult. It is important to recognize that this lack of motivation and lack of excitement about what's to come is a very real and valid emotion. 

This article identifies and explores the notion of "languishing" and the presence of this dominant emotion for many of us in our lives right now. This article validates how we may be feeling and offers some suggestions how to move through and cope with these feelings. Students and families may find this helpful as we gear up for yet another quadmester start up. I really encourage you to allow yourself time and space to honour and validate your emotions and to find ways to do what you need to be well and move forward in a positive manner. We CAN do this and always remember #mindsetmatters!

Finding Relaxation and Calm in Difficult Times

We've made it to April Break! I am sure that most of you are looking forward to a true break from the routine this coming week. It has been a long and hard few months and we have all earned some time to truly unplug, relax, and recharge. The articles linked below offer some suggestions and tips for self-care and I strongly encourage you to give yourself permission to reconnect and to tune into what your mind and body need over the next week. Self-care is a key element of good mental health and a healthy mind can help us deal with the challenges we encounter in our daily lives.

Remember,  #mindsetmatters now more than ever!

Five Tips for Relaxing during Difficult Times 

9 Practices To Help Maintain Mental Health during a Lockdown

(this is an older article, but the tips and info is still very relevant!)

Understanding the Impact of Stress and Power of Intentionally Choosing Gratitude

Understanding how the stress of the last year has had an impact on our lives and our bodies is an important step in further understanding how to manage this stress and its impact. This article explores what scientists are calling "Covid Stress Syndrome" and offers some simple and effective ways to manage the stress and anxiety many of us face every day. 

One very effective way to diffuse the stress of the pandemic is to make an intentional choice to focus on the positive things that have happened this year in your life. Actively choosing gratitude can have a profound impact on our stress levels, mindset and overall sense of well-being. This short video explains the science behind gratitude and the direct positive impacts it can have on your health. 

Season of Change and Growth

The arrival of Spring and the beautiful weather this past week have both been a much needed reminder to pause and acknowledge our appreciation and gratitude for the predictability of season change and renewal--particularly in such an unpredictable time! Acknowledging this period of new growth and change in nature can be a helpful way of connecting to the idea and possibility of growth and change in ourselves and in our personal lives as well. This period of hope, growth and renewal is a great time to take a closer look at our routines and habits and to make a commitment to grow and change in our own daily lives.  

The articles linked below offer some tips for changing and improving self-care and although many of the ideas are small and subtle, the impact can be dramatic and profound. Seize and enjoy this time of growth and rebirth and remember #mindsetmatters always!

The science of self-care: How tiny habits make a big difference

Practicing Self-Care When Time is Hard to Find

The Power of Resilience and Positive Mindset

To say that our resilience and ability to be positive has been challenged in recent months is an extreme understatement! This year has presented challenges and situations that many of us could never have imagined possible.  Ironically however, it is in fact our resilience and ability to change our negative mindset that has, according to one researcher, served us better than we might realize throughout the long months of the pandemic. Our adaptability has driven us to seek new and safe ways to connect socially with others and this has led to a level of happiness that may not have been anticipated in the midst of a global pandemic. Read more about this study and the findings here. 

In April of 2020 Brene Brown offered some tips for coping during the pandemic. One year later these tips are certainly worth revisiting as a way of reminding ourselves that we are much more resilient than we give ourselves credit for!!  #mindsetmatters

A Year of Living with COVID-19

This past week marked one year since our world changed dramatically, in ways none of us could have imagined. The post-Covid world has brought about so many changes in almost every element of our daily lives.

This anniversary is likely bringing up a wide range of emotions and it is hard to ignore the sense of loss many of us may be feeling. However in contrast, it is important to acknowledge that perhaps this past year has led many of us to a new sense of appreciation and gratitude for what does remain in our lives and a newfound sense of hope for what is to come.

This news clip explores the simple question "What are you looking forward to?" with Canadians from across the country and it is safe to say that this question has become one filled with emotion and deeper meaning. 

And while we patiently wait and contemplate what we are all looking forward to, this article offers some great tips to help us intentionally work towards developing and maintaining a positive attitude and outlook, even when it's hard! #mindsetmatters

The Importance of Meaningful Connection

Finding common ground and meaningful connection with others during times of hardship and social isolation is one way to help shift our mindset to a more positive and hopeful perspective. Recognizing and empathizing with others helps us to understand and process our own experiences and this in turn helps us to connect more deeply with those around us.

This article takes a closer look at an ancient greeting and the power that lies within truly acknowledging and honouring the presence of others. 

This article provides some simple but meaningful ways to stay connected to others when being physically together isn't possible.

And finally, this article offers some tips to foster hope in our daily lives. #mindsetmatters

Pursuit of Wellbeing

This article thoughtfully explores the notion of happiness and highlights how the constant and sometimes competitive pursuit of happiness can actually lead to negative feelings and disappointment.

The author offers the pursuit of well-being as a much more gratifying and realistic goal. This perspective encourages us to think about happiness as a by-product of well-being and a journey rather than a final destination. #mindsetmatters

The Value of Rest

Rest comes in many forms. There are different types of rest that our body needs and having a better understanding of what our body really needs will allow us to have a truly rested mind and body. Giving ourselves permission to value and prioritize rest will ultimately enable us to be healthier, happier and more productive.

This article explains the different types of rest that every person needs and this article reminds us of the importance of truly appreciating and valuing rest in our everyday lives. Cozy up, enjoy these articles and then make sure to give yourself some time to truly rest this weekend!

Staying Positive

Shifting our mindset to remain positive can be exhausting and difficult, especially when the world around us is filled with ongoing and at times overwhelming challenges. Some of us may be feeling the fatigue of the last year and it is common to fall into focusing on failure and the negative things happening in our lives.

The articles below offer some tips for remaining positive and embracing and learning from failure during these challenging times. The power of a growth mindset can shift us from a "never" to a "just not yet" outlook and this can make all the difference in our overall mental health and well-being. Mindset Matters, especially when things are hard! 

Five Ways to Stay Positive through Lockdown

How to move on after failure & rebuild your confidence

 Back to School 2.0

As we all prepare to return (yeah!) to a more normal and familiar version of school, it is important to shift our mindset back to a more consistent routine. It might be helpful to think about this as a "Back to School 2.0" to revisit this article that was shared earlier in the year that discussed supporting teens' emotional well-being as they return to the classroom… many of these things discussed are still very relevant!

Here are some other resources that you may find helpful as we pivot once again!

6 Self-care Steps for a Pandemic

 HDSB Well-Being and Mental Health resource page

 Reducing Anxiety, Stress, and Worry

Feeling the winter and lockdown blues? Feeling restless and tired of screens? Feeling like you need to take some time for yourself and your mental health? This article offers some tips and concrete reasons to embrace the winter weather and get outside! Your body and your brain will thank you! 

This is another resource that provides 10 tips and things to do to help you and those around you 'bounce back' and reduce any Covid-related stress and anxiety that might be surfacing.

 You’re Doing a Good Job

Our new 'normal' right now can feel very difficult and monotonous for sure. We are inherently social beings and so this time of social and physical distancing can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. It's important to acknowledge these feelings, while also acknowledging that this won't last forever. Remember that this time apart is so that we can be together again, safely, soon! 

This video serves as a great reminder to all of us that we are all doing "a good job", in all the roles we are playing right now, even when it's hard and exhausting. Enjoy this beautiful song and I really encourage you to take the message to heart...and maybe grab some tissues before watching it!

Remember, your mindset really does matter.

 Growth Mindset

Focusing on a flexible and growth mindset as we face the challenges that lie ahead of us will help us as we respond in times of stress, anxiety and uncertainty.

This article explores the growth mindset and the impact of having a growth vs fixed mindset can have on our overall functioning, well-being and progress. With so much beyond our control right now it is imperative to focus on that which we can influence and change and our mindset is a great example of something we CAN change. Mindset truly does matter and sometimes even the smallest shift in how we view something can have the biggest impact. 

 Beginning 2021 with Realistic and Simple Intention

New Year's resolutions can be a bit of a trap--that which is designed to help us be successful can actually be the very thing that leads to disappointment, frustration, and a sense of failure. It is perhaps better to think of this time of year as a period of refocusing and readjusting of priorities, rather than just a time of reinvention or redesigning.

This article highlights several things that can lead to a healthy "you" and provides the science behind the thought; oftentimes when we understand the "why", the follow through becomes more intentional.

This article similarly outlines ways to reduce stress so that we are able to live happier and healthier lives. There is a lot happening in our world right now and the best way to cope is to practice self-care and self-acceptance daily. Calm and resilience begin at home with our own mindset. Be well and all the best for a mindful 2021.

Tips to Support Your Child’s Mental Wellness and Prepare for the Start of the School Year

Heading back to school is always a time of transition, but this year the changes will be much more far-reaching for most of us. Not only are parents and students being asked to make sense of a whole new set of back-to-school rules: we’re also having to cope with high levels of uncertainty—the fact that there are still so many unknowns. Click here for some tips to support your child's mental wellness and prepare for the start of the school year.

The 2020 Back-to-School List for Teens’ Emotional Well-Being

Back to school and return to routine can bring about a mixture of emotions in the best of times, never mind during a pandemic! Families are likely feeling this back to school season very differently indeed. It is important to acknowledge the impact on our mental health during this time of significant change and to focus on ways to be proactive to protect our well-being. Here are a few resources to help you and your students navigate this new normal together!