Understanding Big Feelings and Mental Health

The Regional Children’s Centre is a friendly place where people help kids and families.

• Before you come, bring something that makes you feel comfortable, like a toy or a book.
• When you arrive, a kind person called a social worker will meet with you and talk about how you're feeling.
• During your appointment, you might play games, draw, or tell stories to help share your feelings.
• Your parents or caregivers will talk to the social worker too. Everyone has a role to play in making things better.
• After the appointment, you, your parent or caregiver, and the social worker might come up with ideas to try at home or school to help with big feelings.

Things can get better!

Each family has different goals. To help you, you might meet with one or more of our team members.

Receptionist 

They are one of the first people you'll meet when you arrive. They welcome you, help your family check in, and make sure you know where to go. 

Social Worker/Counsellor

They talk to you about your feelings and help you solve problems. They use fun activities to help you express yourself.

Child and Youth Worker

They help with your feelings and join you in fun activities, like games or school projects.

Psychologist

They help you understand how you think and feel. They might give you puzzles or games to figure out how your mind works and help you feel better.

Nurse

They take care of your health and make sure you're feeling well. They’re great at helping you feel safe and comfortable.

These helpers work together to support you and help you feel your best!

Just like we take care of ourselves by eating good food and moving our bodies, we need to take care of our minds too. Here are some fun ways to do that:

• Take deep breaths
• Close your eyes and think about a place that makes you happy
• Squeeze all the muscles in your body, and then let them relax
• Pay attention to things around you (what you can see, hear, and smell) instead of only your thoughts

Remember, big feelings don't last forever. Talk to someone you trust or use some of these ideas to help you feel better.

We are a group of kids (ages 8 to 12) and adults working together to help other kids get the mental health support they need!

We’re here to make sure kids have a voice:

• To help improve mental health services for children and youth
• To help people know it's okay to talk about mental health and ask for help
• To encourage everyone to feel good and stay healthy

Together, we can make sure every kid gets the help they deserve!

Learn more on our Child and Family Engagement webpage.