Ask the Experts
We got input from CAMH experts about various youth mental health topics. Here’s what they said:
- Dr. Peter Selby, Senior Scientist, CAMH
- Dr. Alexia Polillo, Staff Scientist, CAMH
- Dr. Darren Courtney, Staff Psychiatrist, CAMH
- Dr. Michael Mak, Staff Psychiatrist, CAMH (coming soon)
- Dr. Jonathan Thacker, Scientific Associate, CAMH (coming soon)
Establish a Healthy Sleep Routine
Getting back into a regular sleep schedule can be one of the biggest adjustments when school starts. Sleep and mental health are very closely connected, playing an important role in overall well-being.
As school gets underway, try to:
- Keep a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, including on weekends when possible.
- Create a wind-down routine that helps signal to your brain that it is time to sleep.
- If your sleep schedule has shifted over the summer, gradually adjust it rather than trying to make a dramatic change overnight.
Make Time for In-Person Connection
Going back to school is an opportunity to reconnect with friends, classmates, teachers, and other people in your community. Making time for meaningful interactions doesn’t have to mean filling your schedule with social activities. Even small moments of connection can make a difference.
Try to:
- Look for opportunities to connect in person, whether that’s eating lunch together, taking a walk, or participating in an activity.
- Focus on quality rather than quantity. One meaningful conversation can be more valuable than consistently being surrounded by people.
- Reach out if you notice that you are feeling isolated or having a difficult time adjusting to the new school year.
Make Time to Move Your Body
When school, homework, and other responsibilities start to fill your schedule, physical activity can easily get pushed aside. Movement doesn’t have to mean spending hours at the gym or following a structured exercise routine. Finding ways to incorporate movement into your day can support both physical and mental well-being.
Look for simple ways to get moving:
- Walk or bike to school, when possible.
- Join a school or community sport.
- Choose activities that you genuinely enjoy. Movement doesn’t have to feel like a chore.
Youth-focused Resources
Here are a few resources created for youth, with input from youth with lived experience.
Are you concerned about a friend?
As a young person, it can be hard to find useful answers to these questions. This resource has been developed by youth for youth, to offer some answers that might work for you.
Talk about it
Sometimes asking for help can feel overwhelming. You don't have to figure it out alone. Here are some simple steps to help you start the conversation.
Mental Health: What you should know
Mental health challenges can look different for everyone. Knowing what to look for can help you recognize when someone may need support.
