School Mental Health Ontario's new resources to support a mentally healthy return to school

School Mental Health Ontario supports a mentally healthy return to school
This is a back-to-school like no other. More than ever, this fall, students need:

• Schools and classrooms that are safe – physically and emotionally – and where they feel welcome, included, heard, comfortable, and confident
• Skills and tools for self-care, managing stress, nurturing relationships, and enhancing their sense of strength and identity
• Caring adults who notice when they may be struggling, and who provide knowledgeable responsive support
• Encouragement to seek additional help when they need it, and guidance towards appropriate support
• Quick access to the right level of service (in schools or community mental health)

In response, School Mental Health Ontario produced a Mentally Healthy Return to School Framework to guide Ontario school boards. This framework includes three priority supports:

• A comprehensive Mentally Healthy Return to School Toolkit
• Extensive training for school mental health professionals in prevention services
• System partnerships to streamline transitions to more intensive services

The Mentally Healthy Return to School Toolkit has practical, evidence-based resources to promote and protect mental health at school. Visit the COVID-19 and Return to School section of SMHO's website for more information and resources, including: 

• The First 10 Days (and Beyond): Creating Caring Connections and Supporting Student Mental Health and Well-Being During the Return to School
• A tip sheet for staff to support positive mental health for all students
• Info sheet on how to notice mental health concerns for your child
• New student resources for anxiety management and mental health literacy