Mental Health

At the OCDSB, we understand that mental health and well-being are important  to student success, affect academic achievement, and social-emotional development. We strive to promote student mental health by creating safe, caring and inclusive learning environments where diversity is recognized, respected and celebrated, and where every student is engaged, empowered and feels valued.   Students who  experience mental health difficulties can access mental health support.  Resources available at school include:  classroom teacher, early childhood educator, educational assistant, learning support teacher/learning resource teacher, guidance counsellor, student success teacher, vice-principal and principal.   There are additional central supports including: specialized teams (e.g., Behaviour, Autism, Early Learning), instructional coaches, re-engagement coordinators, psychologists, social workers and speech & language pathologists. School and central staff can also facilitate access to resources and community mental health services that are culturally sensitive and responsive.

To guide the work in mental health the OCDSB has developed a three year mental health strategy. The OCDSB Mental Health Strategy (2019–2022) builds on the previous strategy and aligns with the OCDSB 2019-2022 Strategic Plan  It was informed by provincial and local data and OCDSB staff, student, and parent voices. The Mental Health Strategy focuses on building and sustaining mentally healthy schools through capacity building for staff, meaningful youth and parent engagement, and collaboration with community partners following an evidence-based, tiered approach to intervention to support students.   

In an immediate crisis, call 911 or go to a hospital.


Resources
Mental Health in Action: Parents
Mental Health in Action: Students

supports and services within the OCDSB

Ministry of Education Resources

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