2.  Is a behavioural, emotional or cognitive pattern of functioning in an individual that is associated with distress, suffering, or impairment in one or more areas of life – such as school, work, or social and family interactions.  biological factors – e.g., genetic influences, chemical imbalances, exposure to environmental toxins  negative early life experiences – e.g., abuse, neglect, death of a relative or other losses and trauma  individual factors – e.g., self-esteem or way of thinking  current social circumstances – e.g., school, work, financial, relationship or family stress, or negative life events - Courtesy of Children Mental Health Ontario 2011

3. What are the Indicators that someone may be experiencing a Mental Health Issue?  Withdrawn or isolate self  Loss pleasure in activities  Mood Swings/ elevated mood  Anger or increased aggression (verbal or physical)  Inability to concentrate/ Lack of Focus/ energy & motivation  Bizarre Behaviour  Poor Hygiene/ Eating/ Sleeping  Disorganization in thoughts or expressions  Unexplained absences from school or work  Substance use  Other factors could be related to psychosocial stressors like family, relationships, and poor coping skills

4.  Anxiety Disorders Anxiety Disorders  Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder  Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Autism Spectrum Disorder  Behaviour Disorders (Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Conduct Disorder (CD)) Behaviour Disorders  Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder (Manic-Depression)) Mood Disorders  Eating Disorders Eating Disorders  Schizophrenia Schizophrenia  Substance Abuse Substance Abuse  Tourette Syndrome Tourette Syndrome

5.  Frequency  Intensity  Duration  Developmental Age  Family History  If you or your family notice these changes consult with your family doctor  IF the child is experiencing difficulties at school; consult with guidance, principal, or mental health professional (CYW, Social Worker)

6.  If your child is in crisis call 911. In some areas of the city the police work with mental health professionals.  Youthdale Mobile Crisis  Peel Children Centre Mobile Crisis  Hospitals (St.Josephs, William Olser, South Lake, HRRH, NYGH, TEGH, Rouge Valley, Oakville Trafalgar)  CAMH  Kids Helpline  www.kidsmentalhealth.ca www.kidsmentalhealth.ca