How to get support for family mental health in Hamilton

Hamilton Public Health Services together with the Lynwood Charlton Centre have created an online resource designed to support to child and youth mental health during COVID-19.

Everyone's mental health has been affected by the pandemic and our usual face-to-face connections, such as with family and friends, or at school and extracurricular activities, are limited, the City of Hamilton said in a press release.

The mental health needs of children, youth and families continue to increase through this pandemic. It is normal to experience increased stress and anxiety during times of crisis. Families are encouraged to ask for support and use the website to find mental health services in Hamilton," said Jen Vickers Manzin, director of public health's healthy families division.

The new child and youth mental health web page is a resource that provides useful tips for youth, families and caregivers, as well as clear information about where to find help for their mental health concerns.

The website includes information about recognizing the signs of a mental health concern, mental health services, substance use services and resources, and more. It is hoped young people who are feeling disconnected or in need of support are able to learn about and access resources available to them, the release said.

Some of the ways in which families can help support mental health include: listening to your child's questions and concerns; validating and supporting your child in a calm manner; being patient with yourself and your child, and knowing that it is normal to have many emotions; helping your child to focus on what is within their control; and having a routine at home that includes time for fun.

For the Child and Youth Mental Health During COVID-19 resource page, visit www.hamilton.ca/CYmentalhealth.

Jennifer Moore is an editorial assistant at The Spectator in Hamilton. Reach her via email: jmoore@thespec.com