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General Access
Q: Who do I contact if I need help with my child’s well-being or mental health?
A: Start by speaking with your school’s guidance counsellor, learning support teacher, or school social worker. They can help assess needs and connect you with appropriate school-based or community supports.
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School-Wide & Classroom-Based Supports
Q: What wellness supports are available in classrooms and across schools?
A: SRSD uses a whole-school approach to wellness, which includes:
- Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) embedded in classroom instruction using the CASEL framework
- Restorative Practices to build respectful relationships and resolve conflict
- Safe and Caring School Committees in every school to lead wellness planning
- School-wide campaigns (e.g., Pink Shirt Day, Mental Health Week)
- Clubs, GSAs, and peer mentorship programs to promote belonging and leadership
- Nutrition programs to support healthy lifestyles
- Identity-affirming spaces that reflect diverse student backgrounds and experiences
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School-Based Mental Health Services
Q: What supports are available within SRSD schools?
A: Students have access to:
- School Social Workers for emotional, behavioral, and family support
- School Psychologists for assessments and consultation
- Learning Support Teachers for academic and emotional regulation strategies
- Occupational Therapists for sensory and self-regulation needs
- Sources of Strength, DBT, and Safe Talk programs for mental health and resilience
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Community Supports
Q: What community-based mental health programs are available?
A: SRSD partners with several organizations:
- Strongest Families Institute: Virtual coaching for families and youth with mild to moderate behavioral or emotional concerns
- Shared Health Child & Youth Services: Includes Early Response Service (ERS) and CBTm for Youth
- CBTm for Youth: A 5-week virtual program teaching mindfulness, coping skills, and stress management for youth aged 12–17
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Early Response Service (ERS)
Q: What is ERS and who qualifies?
A: ERS provides brief virtual therapy (6–8 sessions) for students in Grades 7–12 with mild to moderate anxiety, depression, or substance use concerns.
Eligibility:
- Not in acute crisis
- Not currently receiving other mental health/addictions services
- Parental consent required
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Parental Involvement
Q: Do parents need to be involved in accessing services?
A: Yes. Most services require parental consent. School staff will guide you through the referral and consent process
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