B.C. announces further funding for mental health support in schools

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Schools and districts can use this one-time, pandemic-related mental health funding for a variety of programs and supports to help build resilience and emotional, physical, and mental well-being. For example, funds may be used to support compassionate-systems leadership and trauma-informed practice training for educators, additional mental health resources, and increased access to experts.

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Students can experience increased opportunities to connect with Elders and Knowledge Keepers to provide additional social, cultural, and emotional support, peer-to-peer supports, and initiatives using outdoor, natural spaces for lessons.

In May 2021, the Ministry of Education established a Mental Health School Start-up Working Group, including the BC Centre for Disease Control, BC Teachers Federation, First Nations Education Steering Committee, Doctors of BC, and WorkSafeBC. The group worked to identify the impacts of the pandemic and best practices to address those impacts in schools. It also developed a resource: Key Principles and Strategies for K-12 Mental Health Promotion in Schools.

In addition to these new supports, the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions launched a website this week focused on supporting British Columbians’ mental health and well-being. The website includes a youth mental health resources hub with links to access free counselling, legal help, resources, and always available confidential support lines. To learn more, visit: https://wellbeing.gov.bc.ca/

“The pandemic has been so hard on the mental health of B.C. students and educational staff,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “As we prepare for the beginning of the school year, we are expanding mental health supports so that B.C. schools have the resources they need to foster well-being. We are directing funding to local programs, so schools and districts can better provide the supports students and their educators need most.”

More mental health resources are available for students, staff, and families through Erase (expect respect and a safe education), a program focused on building safe and caring school communities. The Erase site offers tools to empower students, educators, and families dealing with complex issues like mental health, racism, substance use, and bullying. The site also includes connections to mental health services and resources.