Approximately 1 in 5 children and youth in Ontario have a mental health challenge. About 70% of mental health challenges have their onset in childhood or youth. That’s why early identification and intervention is so critical and can lead to improved achievement in school and better health outcomes in life.
Kids Help Phone offers direct and free counselling support to children and youth in need at 1-800-668-6868. They also provide educational resources and tools designed specifically for young people who need help.
Ontario is investing in a mental health and addictions services that puts children and youth first.
Services and supports for children and youth and their families include:
This includes a youth suicide prevention plan which helps communities to better respond to young people in crisis.
Find free child and youth mental health services across Ontario through Health Care Options.
The Canadian Mental Health Association provides information for parents to better understand the symptoms and conditions of children and youth mental health illnesses. This includes:
Watch these videos featuring Dr. Ian Manion, Executive Director of the Ontario Centre of Excellence for Child and Youth Mental Health at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario.