To close out Mental Health Week, our school division is taking the opportunity to share resources and information that support student mental health and well-being. Mental Health Week is an important reminder that conversations about mental health matter, and that awareness, connection, and support can make a meaningful difference for children and youth. 

While conversations about mental health issues and suicide can feel difficult, talking openly and compassionately about mental health is one of the most effective ways to reduce stigma, encourage help-seeking, and keep students safe. 

Families play a vital role in noticing changes, starting conversations, and reaching out for support when concerns arise.

Recognizing When a Child May Need Support

One way families can support student well-being is by becoming familiar with signs that may indicate a child or youth is struggling and may need additional support. 

There is no single cause of mental health issues or suicidal thoughts or behaviours, and signs that a child or youth may be struggling can vary from person to person. Families may notice changes in mood, behaviour, or communication that could signal a need for additional support, such as:

Changes in mood or behaviour

• Increased sadness, anxiety, irritability, or anger
• Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed
• Noticeable changes in sleep patterns or appetite
• Loss of interest in school or declining academic performance

Changes in communication

• Talking or writing about feeling hopeless, worthless, or like a burden
• Expressing feelings of being trapped or having no way out
• Saying goodbye in unusual ways or giving away possessions

Risk-taking or concerning behaviours

• Increased substance use
• Reckless or impulsive actions
• Self-harming behaviours

Experiencing one of these signs does not necessarily mean a child is at risk for serious mental health issues or suicide, but multiple signs or significant changes may indicate that additional support is needed.

How Families Can Support Their Child

• Start the conversation. Asking direct, caring questions about how your child is feeling does not increase risk. It can help them feel seen and supported.
• Listen without judgment. Focus on understanding rather than fixing. Let your child know their feelings matter.
• Try to respond, not react. It can be difficult to hear your child share their difficult feelings or big worries, but it’s important to try to stay calm, thank them for trusting you and then find additional help if needed.
• Stay connected. Small, regular check-ins can make a big difference.
• Reach out early. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and seek support.

Support Is Available

Families are not alone in supporting student mental health. Sharing information and resources is one way we can continue working together to support the well-being of all students.

 If you are concerned about your child, consider reaching out to:

• Your child’s school administration, teacher, or school counsellor
• Local mental health professionals or community supports

If you believe your child is in immediate danger, contact emergency services right away.

• Kids Help Phone
  • Phone: 1-800-668-6868
  • Visit kidshelpphone.ca for resources
  • Crisis Support: Text CONNECT to 686868; online messaging is also available on their website
  • To connect with a First Nations, Inuk or Métis crisis responder, text FIRST NATIONS, INUIT or MÉTIS to 686868
• Talk Suicide Canada
• • Call or text 988
  • Visit talksuicide.ca for resources
• 211 Alberta
• • Call or text 211 or visit ab.211.ca for resources or to use their online chat

A Shared Responsibility

Fostering positive mental health and suicide prevention is a shared responsibility among schools, families, and communities. By staying informed, talking openly about mental health, and seeking help early, we can create a culture of care where students feel supported, connected, and hopeful.

If you would like more information about mental health supports available through our schools, please contact your school administration.