In Canada, between 15 and 20 percent of youth suffer from a mental health issue that impacts their day-to-day functioning in the classroom. As an educator, you are likely one of the first people to notice that a student may be experiencing a potential mental health problem.

Join over 250 educators who have learned how to respond, support and appropriately refer students who may be struggling with these issues.

Now is the time to learn about Mental Health Issues in the Classroom, join certificate designer and instructor, Carolyn FitzGerald.

Who is this Certificate For?

Those wishing to register in the MHIC certificate must have classroom or administrative responsibilities within the education system, or have their Bachelor of Education. Interested paraprofessionals may contact Carolyn FitzGerald regarding their suitability for the certificate.

You'll learn how to:

• Improve your ability to recognize potential mental health problems in the classroom.
• Develop your skills and strategies to support students experiencing mental health issues.
• Liaise, connect and communicate with resources within the school and school boards, and communicate with community resources when asked.

Modules and Certificate Requirements

All participants must take Module 1 to begin. Participants may complete as many modules as they would like for interest. However, to receive the certificate, participants must complete:

• Module 1: An Introduction to Mental Health Issues in the Classroom
• Module 2: Depression and Other Mood Disorders: When Sadness Takes Over
• Module 3: Anxiety Disorders: Moving Beyond Helping Students Cope with Everyday Stress
• Module 4: Self-Harm and Suicidality: Key Issues in Reducing Risk and Preventing Harm
• Module 5: Body Image and Eating Disorders: When the Mirror Talks Back
• Module 6: The Impact of Addictions on Learning: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Alcohol and Drug Use and Dependence in Children and Youth
• Module 7: Disruptive Behaviour Disorders and Psychotic Disorders: When Challenging Students Challenge You
• Mental Health Issues in the Classroom Workshop

Testimonials

Tracy Eagle

Educational Assistant, Grand Erie and Halton Boards

"I have seen kids struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation and suicidal ideation. Mental health greatly impacts their daily functioning and can have a significant effect on their school attendance and performance."

Alysa Vanka

Elementary Teacher, Brantford

"This course has opened my eyes to the many struggles our students face as well as how their illnesses affect their abilities to function in the classroom. Working through the certificate, I feel much better prepared to meet the needs of my students, both academically and emotionally."