Mental health and well-being has always been a priority for the Southeast Cornerstone Public School Division.
“Our understanding of mental health has improved so much in recent years,” the Division said. “It wasn't so long ago that mental health was synonymous with mental illness, and mental health problems carried so much stigma that they were rarely talked about. Today we know that everyone has mental health, and it influences every aspect of our lives - things like our physical health, our work and learning, and our relationships. The more we understand about mental health the more we can take proactive steps to improve it.”
They note that mental health is similar to your physical health, mental health is something that needs to be attended to.
“We all get sick sometimes. A cold or the flu can mean we don't feel our best and need to take care of ourselves. That might include visiting a health care professional and drinking lots of fluids or getting extra rest. Some of us live with chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes. We might take medications or eat a special diet or work with someone who specializes in the condition to help manage symptoms. Generally, with the right treatment, people with chronic conditions can still live a relatively healthy life. The same is true for mental health and mental illness. It's normal to have ups and downs and to need support from time to time. Most people who have mental health problems can recover fully with the right support, and for those with chronic conditions, a treatment plan can manage symptoms and help people to achieve overall mental health while living with mental illness.”
They also noted that there are times that mental health issues can be more serious, leading to everything from irritability or hopelessness to negative coping skills, such as drug and alcohol use, withdrawing from possible support and even suicide. It’s important that everyone be aware of how mental health issues may be affecting those around them.
“There are often clues when someone is experiencing mental health problems. These typically look like behavior changes - big changes in mood, changes in sleep or eating habits, alcohol or drug use, risk taking behavior, or withdrawing from people or activities they'd previously enjoyed. You might also notice your child suddenly struggling in school or experiencing new struggles with friends. You might hear them expressing a sense of overwhelm, hopelessness, disconnection, anxiety, or depression. They may even have thoughts or actions of wanting to hurt themselves,” they noted. “If you notice any of these things, the best thing you can do is encourage your loved one to seek help, or if it's a child in your care, reach out for support on their behalf. If their behavior or words cause you to be concerned about their immediate safety, if they disclose thoughts or attempts at self
harm, it's critical to access immediate support. Your local emergency room, EMS or Police are great resources. These professionals are trained in intervention techniques and can provide immediate assessment and safety planning.”
SECPSD also added that sometimes it’s the younger generations who might notice these changes first and it’s important they know what to do in these situations.
“If you're a student who is worried about a friend, talk to a trusted adult (a parent, coach, teacher, counsellor etc.) right-away and tell them what's happening, even if your friend doesn't want you to. Thoughts or attempts at self-harm are not safe secrets to keep. SECPSD has adults trained in mental health first aid who can support students and their families to access help. Students can also access Student Services counsellors or get a referral to another agency for counselling support when they experience mental health problems.”
SECPSD added that, while the world has come a long way in understanding mental health, there is still a stigma that exists, and it can directly affect a person’s willingness to seek help. As such, it’s important for everyone to check in on those they think may be struggling and encourage open conversations and seeking help.
“Reaching out for support is the first step and might take a few tries to find the resource that’s best for you. Fortunately, here in southeast Saskatchewan we have many resources that support mental health and well-being.”
South East Cornerstone Public School Division is encouraging everyone, parents, students, teachers and staff, to always reach out if they need help.
“Resources are available, help is accessible and, there are people who care and want to help. Reaching out is a sign of strength.”
All the resources listed below are places and people who want you to reach out if you or somebody you care about are struggling:
-Emergency Supports - If you are unsafe, go to your local emergency room or call 911.
-Crisis Support:
-Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text "CONNECT" to 686868
-Suicide Crisis Helpline: Text or Call 988
-Hope for Wellness Helpline: 1-855-242-3119
-Farm Stress Line: 1-800-667-4442
-SHA Mental Health and Addictions Services
-Weyburn/Estevan Area: 306-842-8665 or 1-800-216-7689
-Yorkton/Moosomin Area: 306-786-0558 or 1-800-989-4447
-Envision Counselling and Support Centre
-Estevan: 306-637-4004
-Weyburn: 306-842-8821
-Carlyle: 306-453-2405
-Oxbow: 306-637-4004