Navigate mental health and trauma #youthincare

This Byte was created by people with experience as youth in the child welfare system in Canada.

This Byte is here to help youth in and from care go from surviving to thriving with helpful ideas and resources.

Oftentimes, youth don't reach out to their support networks with their mental health concerns for several reasons. But it's important to remember that you're not alone in the situation you're facing.

Whether it's your therapist, social worker, doctor, or friend, having someone you can talk to is the first step in your journey to bettering your mental health.

Photo by Zachary Nelson on Unsplash

Community bonds us, gives us purpose, and allows us to know there are other amazing people out there we're destined to meet.

What are some ways you can engage with those around you? We challenge you to look into your social media groups to find opportunities you'd love. Here are some ideas:

1. Networking

   • Learn how to introduce yourself at a networking event

   • Find people in your network who inspire you

2. Children's Aid Foundation connection opportunities

   • Volunteer with CAFC

3. Clubs, teams, or social events

   • How do I create a Meetup group?

   • 5 steps to a great conversation with someone you just met

1. You can get a scholarship! Check out CAFC Scholarships & Clark Bursary.

2. Phones are important! Did you know you can get a phone plan from The TELUS Mobility for Good Program.

3. You can have health care! Yes, even after you "age out". Check out OACAS Aftercare Benefits.

4. Need work experience but don't know where to start? Well, start here: Youth Works Program.

5. Are you in the Greater Toronto Area? Check out PARC , and organization that empowers youth.

1. Do you know what it's like to breathe with intention? All you have to do is take a deep breath. Try some meditation and mindfulness apps for some great breathwork exercises.

2. Your body is beautiful! you are beautiful! Movement comes in all different forms, so discover what moves you. Try:

   • Running apps

   • Home exercise

   • Cold water therapy

3. Diversity means having a seat at the table. Inclusion means having a voice, and belonging is having your voice heard. What makes you feel like your voice is heard? Check out these Bytes to learn more:

• It feels like no one understands me. What can I do about it?

• 3 ways to communicate more effectively with your friends

4. For many of us, writing in a journal, recording our own podcast, painting, creating a piece of music, or any other form of self-expression is a beautiful and powerful way to better understand who we are and how we're feeling. Check out these Bytes for some creative ways to connect with yourself:

• Develop self-awareness through journaling

• Decorate a room with a color palette

• Learn to play a musical instrument

What do you need to do to feel safe, secure, and ready?

1. What is your professional support network? Do you have access to a social worker, a counselor, or a family doctor?

2. What is your personal support network? Do you have friends, family, or coworkers you can talk to?

Here are some resources to better understand trauma and healing:

• The Body Keeps Score

• Attachment styles

• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)

Stay on top of your mental health by following this checklist!