This is Mental Health Week and this year’s theme is “unmasking mental health.” According to the CMHA, “Living with mental health challenges often forces people to hide behind a ‘mask’ to protect themselves from judgment and discrimination. But the heavier the stigma, the heavier the mask becomes, and the more isolated we feel.”
For those who identify as part of a marginalized community, the mask can be even heavier. For example, youth who are part of the 2SLGBTQAI+ community are almost twice as likely to have a mental health or substance use disorder, compared to their cisgender, heterosexual counterparts.
Today, May 7, is also National Child and Youth Mental Health Day, which emphasizes that “when young people feel seen, heard, and supported, their mental health improves.”
How CHV Helps to Unmask
Many of the youth who access our programs and services, have experienced distressing life events, such as violence, poverty, abuse, and other forms of trauma, all which can negatively impact their mental and physical health, and lead to depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Mental health challenges can be both a cause and a symptom of homelessness. It is close to impossible to improve your mental health when your basic needs — access to shelter, food, and clothing — are unmet. The need for mental health supports among youth experiencing homelessness is significant.
CHV offers a wide range of supports designed to address the mental and emotional well-being of youth, to remove barriers and foster resilience, and to help youth navigate their mental health journeys.
Here’s how we deliver these essential services:
One-to-One Counselling and Evidence-Based Therapies
CHV’s Registered Clinical Counsellors offer free, personalized sessions that are tailored to meet each youth’s unique needs. These sessions provide a safe space for youth to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Our counsellors use evidence-based therapies, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), to help youth reframe negative thoughts and manage intense emotions.
Physical Health and Mental Well-Being
Recognizing the strong connection between physical and mental health, CHV offers a fully equipped gym and fitness room. Regular physical activity helps reduce anxiety, improve mood, and build self-confidence. Our staff and volunteers support youth in developing fitness routines tailored to their preferences and goals. Additionally, we offer recreational outings like hiking that may otherwise be inaccessible to youth, due to financial constraints. These activities foster peer connections and promote mental well-being.
Creative Outlets: Art and Music Therapy
Creative expression is a powerful mental health tool. CHV’s art therapy sessions allow youth to explore their emotions and express themselves in a safe environment. In the music room, youth can play instruments, write songs, and experience the healing power of music. CHV works with the VSO to offer regular musical training, as well as private tutoring.
Spiritual Care Services
Many youth who have experienced significant loss may struggle to find meaning and purpose beyond day-to-day survival. CHV’s Spiritual Care team provides inclusive support for youth of all faiths and traditions, to give youth the option to explore their spiritual, religious, and cultural identities. If desired, our team can connect youth with safe spiritual, religious, and cultural communities. The team also offers compassionate support during times of grief and loss.
Partnerships for Comprehensive Care
When specialized care is needed, CHV works closely with trusted community partners to provide seamless support. We facilitate access to psychiatric care, treatment centres, and other essential services. We advocate for youth by ensuring that they are connected to the right resources and that clear communication with our partners is maintained throughout the process. We also assist with logistical details such as getting to appointments (we will attend with youth if they desire), and by providing reminders. By working together, we create a holistic approach to mental health that addresses both immediate challenges and long-term wellness.
Today, and moving forward, help young people feel seen, heard, and supported. Take the time to learn more about the causes of youth homelessness, who it can affect, and the mental health impacts on vulnerable youth. By understanding the challenges and impacts, we can remove the stigma around youth homelessness and mental health, act more compassionately, and make society more inclusive and supportive.
Together, we can make an impact.