Young People

Mental Health Care and Youth

Initially, it was hard for Ryan and his family to find supports and services after Ryan came out as trans and wanted to transition. Having the right pieces in place made all the difference—supportive family and access to service providers who understood the bigger picture. However, many young people, including in Ryan’s life, who experience complicated challenges around mental health and gender identity aren’t receiving the care and support they need.

Crossing the Bridge

Anita entered government care at 13, when it wasn't safe to be at home. They dropped out of school—less than half of foster kids graduate—and battled depression. Mental illness was a monster, and Anita was scared to ask for help. The care system leaves people on their own too early, and youth in care need more. Now, Anita uses their experiences and insights to fight for others, advocating for better support for foster kids aging out of care.

Stigma, Resilience and Health Care for Marginalized Youth

When young people experience trauma, abuse, abandonment, or other difficult experiences, the system labels them "at risk" or "vulnerable" and makes it sound like the youth themselves are the problem. But the real problem is in the stigma and discrimination that excludes and marginalizes youth who are just trying to survive the best they can. When we build positive relationships with youth and offer inclusive and non-judgemental support, we bring people into our communities rather than push them aside.

Youth and Alcohol

 

Author: Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research

 

@youngpeople benefit from having caring adults to talk with about their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

Youth need support and guidance in navigating a culture where alcohol is widely advertised, socially acceptable, and commonly used by adults.

Tips for Communicating

If you have a family member who has a mental illness, it can sometimes be extremely difficult to communicate with them. This is because mental illnesses may affect their ability to think clearly or concentrate. A person can also be more stressed when they have difficulty understanding what is said or what is expected of them.

For Young Adults

Depression and anxiety problems may be difficult, but you don't have to deal with them on your own. In this series, learn more about depression and anxiety, and see how you can find help and feel better.

Stay Connected

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  • eVisions: BC's Mental Health and Substance Use Journal, a theme-based magazine
  • Healthy Minds | Healthy Campuses events and resources
  • Within Reach: Resources from HeretoHelp
  • EmbodyBC updates and news
  • BC Schizophrenia Society's Monthly Newsletter and Youth In Mind Newsletter

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