Mental Health Week is held during the first week of May with an emphasis on children’s mental health.
Prior to the COVID-19 crisis, demand for kids’ mental health services was high, with a Province-wide wait list of 28,000.
Since the advent of COVID, these can be particularly challenging times for kids with mental illness.
It’s important to recognize when to seek help.
Watch for physical signs that manifest with stomach aches, nausea, difficulties breathing, a faster heartbeat, muscle tension, sweatiness, shakiness, dizziness, and headaches. Anxiety can also affect a child’s behaviour by causing increased irritability, sleep challenges, or difficulties separating from parents.
If your child has shared thoughts of suicide or self-harm, seek immediate help.
The Phoenix Centre for Children and Families reminds families that it remains open to provide mental health services in our community.
Go online to phoenixctr.com or call 613-735-2374.
