Mental Health Services for Children and Teens

It is important to develop good mental health in children from their very first days. Parents play a big part in the development of sound habits in their children. That role continues into their teen years, an important stage in the life of a child, when they find themselves undergoing tremendous changes, both emotional and physical. Their priorities change, and may conflict with those of their parents. They want to be heard and to express themselves, which sometimes leads to clashes when it comes to making decisions. Questions about sexuality, the environment and lifestyles, as well as their physical development, may require support at some point.

There is no miracle formula for developing good mental health. However, you can help your child in different ways. For example, don’t hesitate to encourage them and help them with their different cultural, social, sports and educational activities. There, they will meet people of their own age who share their interests.

• Help children build healthy relationships with the people close to them.
• Children have to feel good about themselves. Help them develop good self-esteem.
• Give children the space they need to express themselves. Listen to them and respect their feelings.
• The family must be a safe, reassuring and positive place.
• When children come up against challenges, give them advice rather than try to take care of things for them.

We offer individual and family counseling services, as well as group services. The topics of discussion change in response to the family’s needs. The following is a non-exhaustive list of topics that may be covered:

• Mourning.
• Managing emotions.
• Family relations.
• Questions about sexual identity.
• Social relations.
• Anxiety.
• Suicide risk.
• Depression.
• Hyperactivity.
• Etc.

The Rockland & Prescott-Russell Youth Wellness Hub
Immediate help is available for youth between 12 and 25 years of age for mental health, addiction, primary care, education, employment and training, housing and other social and community services. The Rockland & Prescott-Russell Youth Wellness Hub provides services from the main location in Rockland and two outreach sites in Hawkesbury and Embrun. The Cornwall Community Hospital, Valoris for Children and Adults of Prescott-Russell and the Hawkesbury and District General Hospital worked together with youth in the local community, their children and service providers on designing the hub. Visit their website for more information.

One Stop Talk
One Stop Talk is a free, confidential service that lets children and youth aged 0-17 years call or connect online from anywhere in Ontario to get brief mental health services. Visit the website for more information.