For 24/7 crisis support, call Here 24/7 at (844) 437-3247
For 24/7 crisis support, call Here 24/7 at (844) 437-3247
To support suicide prevention efforts and mental health literacy in schools, WRSPC offers three main services:
In Ontario, school boards and school authorities are directed under Policy/Program Memorandom 169 (PPM 169) to “provide culturally responsive, evidence-informed student mental-health promotion, prevention, and early intervention services”. The topics of mental health, wellness, and help-seeking are included in the Ontario Health and Physical Education curriculum, for grades 7 to 12.
School Mental Health Ontario is a provincial organization which works to support the implementation of PPM 169 throughout Ontario school boards. They offer information and resources to school administrators, teachers, community organizations, as well as parents and caregivers.
Our Youth Suicide Prevention and Awareness presentations provide an overview of mental health and suicide. With a focus on building resiliency, youth learn how they can build their own ‘seatbelt’ for life, how they can connect to help, and how they can support a friend who might be struggling. The presentation content has been informed by the Ontario Health and Physical Education curriculum, as well as best practices for mental health promotion.
Currently, a standard version of the presentation is facilitated for gr.7 students through partnerships with WRDSB and WCDSB. We also support presentations at local, independent schools as requested.
We develop and publish suicide prevention resources on an ongoing basis. Currently, we offer the following resources for youth and students:
We provide consultation, information, and resources to school staff and student leaders who are planning mental health and/or suicide prevention awareness events. Our staff frequently hosts information booths at school events; contact us for more information!
