Services - Programs
Child and Youth Mental Health
The most common mental health problems in children and youth are anxiety and depression. Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety, social anxiety, fears and phobias, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Depression is characterized by feelings of hopelessness, changes in appetite and sleep and, in extreme cases, suicidal thoughts and attempts. Conduct disorder and other serious behaviour problems are more common among boys and often manifest as frequent temper outbursts, defiance and disobedience, aggressive behavior or bullying, delinquent behaviour, and poor academic performance. Other conditions such as eating disorders and early psychosis are less common but can have a devastating effect on youth and their families.
Mental health problems that begin in childhood or adolescence are often the beginning of difficulties that continue into adulthood. The good news is that the majority of children can be helped early and effectively, avoiding lifelong hardship and disability.
CYMH programs focus:
- Risk reduction for children in distress
- Treatment for children by a mental health professional
- On-going support for children and their families
For more information call 250.357.2277 or click here.
