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Mental Health Awareness Week

Mental Health Awareness Week

Mental Health Awareness Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of mental health and well-being. This year’s theme, “Come together, Canada,” reminds us how everyday moments of connection can strengthen resilience and support the well-being of students, staff, and families within our school district’s community.  

Connection matters because it helps reduce isolation, builds a stronger sense of belonging, and supports positive mental health. Below are a few small, everyday actions that can help others feel supported, included, and valued.

  1. Reach out  
    Connection often starts with something simple. Saying hello in the hallway, checking in with a colleague, or taking a moment to connect with a student during the school day can make a meaningful difference. This can help build a caring school culture and remind others that they are not alone.  
  2. Check in with yourself 
    Pause for a moment and notice how you’re feeling. Do you need rest? A break? A conversation? Taking time to notice how you are feeling throughout the school day and reaching out for support when you need it is an important part of caring for your mental health. 
  3. Come together in everyday moments 
    Connection doesn’t have to be big to matter. Starting a conversation at lunch with a classmate or walking together during a break are simple ways to strengthen relationships. These are everyday actions we can practice every day that help build a supportive school community. 


In Our District

A great example of connection in action in our district is the work of the Brooks Mental Health & Advocacy Group. Earlier this year, students applied for and received a McCreary grant, which supports student-led projects focused on improving youth health in school communities. With this funding, the group developed a survey on substance use, with 400 students in Grades 8-10 participating. Using the data, they organized a week-long question contest focused on substance use and available supports. Throughout Mental Health Awareness Week, students will have a chance to respond to a “question of the day” by scanning a QR code. Open to all students at Brooks Secondary, the contest encourages connection and conversation around topics that can sometimes feel stigmatized. Participants are also entered into a draw every time they submit an answer to win a prize basket. 

Another example is the upcoming qSD Grade 7 Mental Health & Wellness Conference that’s on May 12th. This annual event brings together Grade 7 students from across the district to connect, talk about all things mental health, and gain practical tools and ideas as they prepare for high school. Stay tuned for more on this next week! 

In qathet School District, we recognize the importance of mental health every day, not just during Mental Health Week. From counsellors in schools to our partnership with the Integrated Child and Youth (ICY) team, along with access to a variety of online supports and resources, there is an ongoing commitment to creating environments that support the well-being of students, staff, and families.  


Check out the resources and supports available: 

 Crisis and Immediate Support: 

  • Kids Help Phone: Call 1-800-668-6868 or text TALK to 686868 
  • 310 Mental Health Support: Call 310-6789 (no area code required) 
  • 1-800-SUICIDE: Call 1-800-784-2433 
  • KUU-US Crisis Line (Indigenous support): Call 1-800-588-8717 
  • Here2Talk (post-secondary students) 
  • Y Mind (YMCA BC) 
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