With the Day of Truth and Reconciliation approaching, I felt it was important to provide some resources about how to talk to kids and address some commonly asked questions as a starting point to the journey of reconciliation. Please find below some considerations:

Building on last week’s post about suicidal thoughts in teens https://www.mindfulhealingjourney.ca/1-minute-help/supporting-your-teen-to-cope-with-suicidal-thoughts#/. Self-harm is also prevalent among youth, and the rates of female youth engaging in self-harm in Canada have risen alarmingly in the past decade. Self-harm is often seen as one in the same with suicidal ideations, however that is not the case. Self-harm can lead to suicidal ideations, and a person can use self-harm to cope with existing suicidal thoughts, but youth can also experience self-harm without having an suicidal thoughts and vice versa. Self-harm has often been explained as a way to externally feel pain to numb deep internal pain. It is often used as relief or release of emotions. It is important to know with the right resources and support youth can overcome their urges to self-harm and find alternate methods of coping. Please find below some important considerations.

​Suicide is a prevalent issue with teens, Stats Canada reports more than 1 in 5 teens have suicidal thoughts. Many parents are shocked when they find out their teen is struggling, and it can be difficult to know what to do next. There are many resources out there, I have included some key resources below that I find helpful in supporting teens struggling with suicidal thoughts. 

​Are you feeling stressed about the new school year starting? Are you worried about your child making friends in their class and liking the teacher? Many parents feel the pressures of the transition to back to school. Below are some considerations to support you through the transition: