🗓️ October 10: World Mental Health Day

Caring for Ourselves and Each Other

On October 10, World Mental Health Day reminds us that our minds need care and attention, just like our bodies. At Sudbury Catholic Schools, we encourage students, staff and families to take time to check in with themselves and one another, talk about mental health and remember that it is okay to ask for help.

Rooted in our Catholic values of compassion, dignity and care for others, this day is an opportunity to consider how we can help every student feel supported, connected and valued. A kind word, a listening ear or a conversation with a trusted adult can be a meaningful place to start.

Building awareness through everyday learning

Age-appropriate activities offer opportunities for students to explore feelings, practise coping skills and learn how to seek support. Educators and families can use the following ideas to begin these conversations:

• Kindergarten–Grade 3: Read stories about feelings, try a simple feelings check-in, create a kindness jar or practise breathing by imagining “smelling a flower and blowing out a candle.” Explore School Mental Health Ontario’s Grab & Go Tools.
• Grades 4–6: Discuss what helps us feel calm, create a personal coping toolkit poster or write encouraging notes to classmates. Explore stress-management and coping activities.
• Grades 7–8: Reflect through journaling, discuss healthy ways to manage stress or create a mental health awareness display. Explore Connect Quest.
• Grades 9–12: Open conversations about mental health and stigma, develop student-led awareness materials or explore strategies for managing stress. Access School Mental Health Ontario’s Secondary Virtual Field Trips.

Support is available

Students and families do not have to navigate mental health concerns alone. Speaking with a trusted adult at school can help start a conversation and connect students with support. Families can also explore these resources:

• School Mental Health Ontario: Mental health information and practical resources for students, educators, parents and caregivers.
• Compass: Child and youth mental health services for families in the Sudbury and Manitoulin districts.
• Sudbury Youth Wellness Hub: Mental health, substance-use and wellness supports for youth ages 12–25. Call 705-280-7581 or visit 65 Larch Street, Unit 103B, Sudbury.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call Health Sciences North’s Crisis Intervention Services at 705-675-4760. For suicide crisis support, call or text 9-8-8. Both services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

This World Mental Health Day, let’s continue building caring school communities where asking for help is encouraged and everyone knows they have someone to turn to. Be kind, be patient and care for yourself and others—today and every day.

If You Need Support

You are not alone. If you need support, please reach out to your doctor, family member or a trusted adult. You can find a variety of mental health and well-being resources and supports available at school and in the community highlighted on the Mental Health and Well-Being section of our website.

Mental Health Hub

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Safe & Accepting Schools

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Mental Health Newsletter

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