World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day, a global initiative started by World Health Organization, is recognized annually on October 10th. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness, encourage open conversations, reduce associated stigma, and highlight the importance of accessible mental health care for everyone at home, in schools, workplaces, and across our different communities.
This year’s theme, “Mental Health in Humanitarian Emergencies,” reminds us that there is no health without mental health and that people affected by crises often face significant barriers to accessing the support they need.
Research shows that while one in five people living in conflict-affected areas may experience a mental health condition, nearly everyone affected experiences emotional distress and disruption to community connections.
This year’s campaign teaches us that meaningful mental health support in emergencies means:
- Protecting Vulnerable Populations: Focusing on the mental health needs of communities and individuals directly impacted by disasters and humanitarian crises.
- Improving Access to Care: Advocating for increased access to mental health services, training local professionals, and integrating psychological support into emergency response efforts.
- Building Resilience: Highlighting the role of mental health support in helping individuals and communities recover, rebuild, and become more resilient in the long term after a crisis.
- Reducing Stigma: Promoting open conversations about mental health during difficult times to help people seek and offer help without shame.
In our district, we recognize the importance of mental health every day, not just today. From counsellors on school sites to our wonderful partnership with the Integrated Child and Youth Team (ICY), along with a wide range of online resources, we are committed to nurturing a supportive environment that promotes well-being for students, staff, and the broader qathet School District community.
Additional Resources
erase (Expect Respect and a Safe Education)
Government of BC: HelpStartsHere
Mental Health & Substance Use Resources for Students, Adults, and School Staff
How to Talk About Mental Health With Children and Youth
First Nations Health Authority - With Open Arms: Supportive Conversations Among Friends
+ Downloadable Toolkit for Keeping Friends Close in Conversations About Substance Use
Government of BC: Virtual Mental Health Supports
Kids Help Phone:
Get 24/7, immediate counselling, support, information and referrals. Youth can call 1 800 668-6868 or text TALK to 686868.
Y Mind: YMCA mental wellness programs
Free online programs for young people aged 13 to 30. The YMCA of British Columbia’s Y Mind program helps young people cope with stress, worry and anxiety.
Here2Talk
Confidential, free counselling and referral services by app, phone or online chat for all registered post-secondary students. Here2Talk is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
LGBTQ2S+
Gender and sexuality alliance meetings that take place online and over the phone. Find resources on SOGI 123, by educators for educators, to support students looking for a safe place to share.
310Mental Health Support
Call 310-6789 for emotional support, information and resources specific to mental health
1-800-SUICIDE
Call 1-800-784-2433 if you are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including thoughts of suicide
KUU-US Crisis Response Service
Call 1-800-588-8717 for culturally aware crisis support for Indigenous peoples in B.C.