Dozens of events are planned across the County for Children’s Mental Health Week taking place May 6th – 10th. In partnership with schools and community groups, New Path Youth and Family Services is hosting events ranging from yoga to stress ball making activities all aimed at raising awareness about the importance of child and youth mental health across the County. Green ribbons in support of child and youth mental health are also being distributed across the County by the organization. You can show your support by picking up a ribbon at New Path location at the Barrie Common Roof at 165 Ferris Lane and at Orillia Common Roof located at 169 Front Street South.
“Children’s Mental Health Week in Simcoe County is our opportunity to raise awareness of the mental health challenges facing our children and youth, and to ensure timely access and support for those seeking help,” says Glen Newby, CEO, New Path Youth and Family Services. “Research clearly shows that early intervention is key to successful outcomes. Because mental health can’t wait New Path Youth & Family Services provides a full range of child and youth mental health services throughout Simcoe County, when and where you need them.”
As many as 1 in 5 Ontario children and youth has a diagnosable mental health concern and that’s why the child and youth mental health services offered by accredited, community-based mental health agencies such as New Path Youth and Family Services are crucial to helping children and youth in our communities overcome their challenges.
QUICK FACTS
- No referrals are needed for most programs and services are provided at no cost. In Simcoe County, New Path offers a range of child and youth mental health services when and where they’re needed, including at home and in many elementary and secondary schools.
- Visiting a child and youth mental health walk-in clinic for a counselling session will get you help right away and can be your first step to accessing additional services available at New Path, including child and youth and group counselling.
- Children’s mental health disorders can be difficult to diagnose. The symptoms of a disorder in children are often different from the symptoms experienced by adults. It is important that your child receive an accurate diagnosis.
- 70% of mental health problems have their onset during childhood or adolescence.
- 17% of children ages 2-5 years meet the diagnostic criteria for mental health problems.
- Canada’s youth suicide rate is the third highest in the industrialized world.
(Statistics Source: https://www.cmho.org/education-resources/facts-figures)
About New Path Youth and Family Services of Simcoe County
New Path Youth and Family Services of Simcoe County is a government supported, registered not for profit charitable organization. We are an accredited children’s mental health agency providing a range of innovative and accessible services for children, youth and their families throughout Simcoe County. We are the Lead Agency in Simcoe County for Moving on Mental Health (MOMH) committed to leading system change in the County. As Lead Agency, New Path seeks to enhance the experience and outcomes of children, youth and their families seeking assistance with mental health and wellness.
To learn more about New Path Youth and Family Services, to donate, or get involved please visit www.newpath.ca, follow us on social media Facebook: New Path Youth & Family Services Twitter: @NewPathYFS Instagram: @NewPathYFS or sign up for our TrailSigns Newsletter