Mental Health

Here’s a list of initiatives and programs the EMSB has implemented to support students’ mental health:

1. Mental Health Professionals in Schools
The EMSB has mental health specialists such as psychologists, guidance counselors, and social workers available in schools to provide support, counseling, and crisis intervention for students.

2. Anti-Bullying and Anti-Violence Programs (ABAV)
EMSB schools have implemented comprehensive anti-bullying programs to foster a safe and supportive environment, addressing issues like harassment, cyberbullying, and violence, which can significantly affect mental health.

3. Mindfulness and Stress Management Programs
Mindfulness and stress management techniques have been introduced in various schools to help students manage anxiety, stress, and emotional well-being. Programs like “Mind Up” teach students practical ways to handle stress and improve focus.

4. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Programs
SEL programs are designed to help students develop skills like emotional regulation, self-awareness, empathy, and relationship-building, all of which are essential for mental health and well-being.

5. Partnerships with Mental Health Organizations
The EMSB partners with organizations such as AMI-Quebec, the Douglas Mental Health Institute, and community mental health centers to offer specialized mental health services, workshops, and seminars for students, parents, and teachers.

6. Student Services Helpline
The EMSB provides helplines and online resources for students who need immediate mental health assistance, offering guidance, counseling, and referral services.

7. Workshops on Mental Health Awareness
Schools within the EMSB regularly hold mental health awareness workshops for both students and staff to promote understanding of mental health issues and reduce stigma around seeking help.

8. Crisis Intervention Teams
Trained professionals are available for crisis intervention in cases where students are experiencing acute mental health challenges. These teams provide on-site support and referrals to more intensive care when needed.

9. Wellness Spaces and Mental Health Days
Some EMSB schools have implemented “wellness spaces” or designated mental health days to offer students a break from academic stress and provide opportunities to engage in calming and therapeutic activities.

10. Teacher Training in Mental Health First Aid
Teachers and staff are trained to recognize signs of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges, and to provide appropriate support or refer students to mental health professionals when necessary.

11. Suicide Prevention Programs
EMSB offers suicide prevention programs, including awareness campaigns and intervention strategies, to support students in crisis and help prevent tragedies. This includes working closely with specialized mental health professionals and community organizations.

12. COVID-19 Mental Health Support
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the EMSB rolled out specific mental health supports to help students cope with isolation, anxiety, and the challenges of remote learning. This included virtual counseling services, wellness check-ins, and expanded online mental health resources.

13. Peer Mentorship and Support Programs
Peer mentorship programs are in place to encourage students to support each other, providing a sense of belonging and shared experiences that can positively impact mental well-being.

14. Specialized Programs for At-Risk Students
EMSB offers tailored mental health support for students at higher risk of mental health challenges, including those facing socio-economic hardships, students with learning disabilities, and those from marginalized communities.

15. Parental Support and Engagement
Recognizing the critical role of parents, the EMSB offers workshops and resources for parents to help them understand and support their children’s mental health. This includes strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and promoting resilience at home.

16. Access to External Mental Health Resources
EMSB works closely with external mental health organizations to provide students with access to additional mental health services, whether it’s individual therapy, group counseling, or specialized treatments.

17. Mental Health Awareness Week
The EMSB participates in annual events like Mental Health Awareness Week, promoting mental health literacy and offering activities focused on well-being, self-care, and stress reduction.