0343 - FREE - Introduction to Children and Youth Mental Health: Skills for Educators
Course Description
Public and private school educators are often the frontline responders to growing mental health needs among children and youth*:
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Since the pandemic began, rates of psychological distress among young people have increased. 39% of students feel the pandemic negatively affected their mental health "very much" or "extremely."
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1.2 million children and youth are affected by a mental illness, but less than one-third connect with a mental health professional.
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Studies in Canada indicate a $6-$16 return per $1 invested in school mental health. Investments in school mental health also yield cost savings in other sectors like health and justice.
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Research shows supporting mental needs through early intervention is associated with social, emotional and academic student success.
*Source: Student Mental Health Ontario
About the Mental Health Skills for Educators micro-credentials
This series of micro credentials equips educators and those who work with children with much needed tools to support young people experiencing mental health challenges. You will develop new skills, practices, and ideas for supporting positive student mental health from a proactive and preventative perspective.
Each of the seven micro credentials in this series prepares you to support children and youth experiencing the most common and serious mental illnesses and disorders.
In this free introductory module, participants will:
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Gain a foundational understanding of the current state of youth mental health in Canada
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Discover the role teachers, administration, and support staff can play in recognizing and supporting student mental health needs
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Join a continuing education community of hundreds of educators to discuss adapting learning and preventative approaches for the specific needs of your classroom
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Leave with takeaway PDFs and resources to solidify learning and share with your colleagues and principals
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Explore other micro credentials in this series to choose your best path forward for addressing the specific mental health needs within your classroom
The introductory module is free and available to participants at any time. The online module is self-paced, with no deadlines or submission requirements. Typically, this module can be completed in less than 6 hours.