As we enter the back-to-school season, we understand that some parents and families may be experiencing stress or anxiety. CAMH is Canada's largest mental health hospital and research centre, and has compiled resources informed by clinical and research expertise about youth mental health, many of which have been co-developed by youth, for youth. We hope these will be helpful in starting discussions at home about mental health and the pandemic, and can provide support for your families and children.
If you or a loved one are concerned about your child’s mental health, please see a family doctor.
For more information about COVID-19, or resources related to managing mental health during the pandemic, visit the CAMH COVID-19 Hub.
Resources for Parents
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Back to school during COVID-19: Helping with children’s anxiety Because of COVID-19, many children are experiencing higher levels of worry and distress about going back to school. This information sheet presents some strategies to help you identify your child’s level of anxiety, and support their mental health as they prepare to return to school in person. |
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Back to school during COVID-19: Tips for parents’ well-being With most children returning to the classroom in September for at least part of the week, there will be changes to daily routines that may present challenges for children, parents and the family as a whole. This information sheet includes tips to help make the transition smoother, and strategies to support you as you prepare for your child to return to school in person. |
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Talking to children about COVID-19 and its impact This time may be very challenging for children and adolescents, and they may have questions about the pandemic, school closures, and information that they may hear from other sources that can cause anxiety and alarm. This information sheet contains tips on how to have open, honest, informative conversations with your kids about COVID-19. |
COVID-19 Resources for Youth
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Coping During COVID-19: Virtual Resources for Youth This information sheet provides tips to help young people find mental health services, along with a list of resources they can use to support themselves. |
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Coping during COVID-19: A resource for youth The information sheet offers ways for young people to take care of themselves and focus on their mental health, from stress-beating strategies to staying connected and informed. |
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ABCoping with COVID-19: A resource for youth An A-to-Z list of ideas to help young people keep occupied when at home, self-isolating, or during times of lockdown. |
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Reflection Exercise: Cup of Gratitude This worksheet teaches young people a mindfulness and reflection exercise to support their mental health during COVID-19. |
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Coping with COVID-19: A resource for trans and non-binary youth This info sheet, by and for trans and non-binary youth, offers tips, validation and resources to help with coping during the pandemic. |
General Mental Health information
For general information about mental health, check out Game Changers – a CAMH program sponsored by Hudson's Bay designed to promote discussions around mental health among children and youth. Aside from youth-focused resources, Game Changers also promotes mental wellness through virtual presentations and classroom discussions in schools.
Click here to learn more about Game Changers.
Here are a number of resources created for youth, by youth as part of the Game Changers program: