Amid the transition from summer break back to school, BC Children’s Hospital is shedding light on the pressing issue of severe anxiety and mental health challenges affecting children.
Dr. Tom McLaughlin, an acute care pediatrician, emphasizes that returning to school can be a significant source of stress and change for kids. While most children navigate the school year with the aid of their parents and teachers, some may require emergency room visits.
McLaughlin underscores the importance of monitoring children’s well-being, particularly focusing on physical health through exercise and sufficient sleep. Adjusting from a relaxed summer routine to an earlier bedtime can pose difficulties for some.
Highlighting the significance of early intervention, experts stress community support as the primary defense mechanism before resorting to hospital care. Foundry BC, a support group offering confidential health and wellness assistance for youth aged 12 and above, aims to prevent school-related challenges from escalating into emergency situations.
Steve Mathias, co-executive director of Foundry, underscores the organization’s accessibility, with services available both in-person at 20 centers across the province and online, emphasizing the need for timely assistance without the crisis threshold.
Encouraging open dialogue within families, McLaughlin advocates for addressing daily stressors and anxiety directly. He emphasizes the importance of initiating conversations about emotions and mental well-being without reservation.
Foundry also extends support to caregivers, providing guidance on communicating with teenagers effectively.
For those seeking immediate mental health or crisis support beyond Foundry’s scope, relevant helplines are available:
– Suicide Crisis Helpline (24/7): Call or text 988 for suicide prevention assistance.
– Mental Health Crisis Line (24/7): Dial 310-6789 for emotional support and resources.
– Kids Help Phone (24/7): Text “CONNECT” to 686868 or call 1-800-668-6868 for crisis counseling.
Keyphrase: children mental health.
