Our Projects
Community Mental Health Training
One of the gaps identified during data collection was the need for more youth service providers, youth front line workers (coaches, employment counsellors, youth leaders, youth counsellors, instructors), and parents, to be more aware of and educated in youth mental health challenges and, especially, on how to support them. It was also identified that youth needed more support and training in speaking to other youth about mental health. CBYF looks to mend this gap by offering training and education on addressing mental health challenges and overall day-to-day stresses youth might face.
Communities Building Youth Futures is partnering up with Canadian Mental Health Association Thames Valley Addictions and Mental Health Services to host a mental health learning series for Oxford County. We are excited to announce a three-part virtual Public Learning Series covering major current topics in mental health:
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General mental health and resiliency (October 18, 2023 from 5:00-6:30PM)
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Trauma informed environments (November 8th, 2023 from 5-6:30PM)
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Understanding substance abuse and addictions (January 17th, 2024 from 5-6:30PM)
You are able to sign up for these virtual training sessions using the following link: https://forms.gle/GtqpPSVnH5Bjtmti7. You must be able to attend live as a recording will not be sent out.
You are able to sign up for all training sessions or only for the ones you’re interested in. Anyone above the age of 15 is welcome to attend.
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If you have any questions, please feel free to contact nethnie.nandadasa@spcoxford.ca.
Keep reading for more details information about the topics:
General Mental Health and Wellness
In this session we will build an understanding surrounding Mental Health and recognize the signs and symptoms when there may be a decline in our own, or someone else’s mental health. It is important that we take the time to define our own protective factors and discuss strategies for supporting resilience to foster positive emotional well-being. We will also discuss how we can create a culture of support in our workplace and our communities by supporting those around us. Resources will be provided at the end of the presentation on ways to connect to professional and self-directed help.
The General Mental Health and Wellness training will occur on October 18th, 2023 from 5-6:30 pm
Violence and Trauma Informed Environments Training
Trauma is prevalent in our world and impacts all of us – our friends, family, colleagues and those accessing our services. Trauma often shapes our interactions and relationships at home and at work.
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Trauma-informed workplaces understand the presence of trauma, acknowledges the role trauma can play in a person’s life, and promotes work environments that support the individual and collective well-being of all staff and those accessing services. They create a sense of belonging, connection and safety through their attitudes, policies and practices.
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As a result, organizations that are trauma-informed are more resilient and better able to achieve their missions. Every workplace, in every sector can benefit from becoming trauma-informed.
This training will provide an overview of trauma and its impact on individuals and communities
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types of traumas
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trauma responses
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trauma as a risk factor
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psychological impact and impact on behaviors - “all behavior has meaning”.
It will provide distinctions between Trauma-Specific Services and TVIC Informed Services, and it will outline the principles of an TVIC approach and the implications for practice within an organization
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principles to be applied across all levels of the organization
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how to create a supportive welcoming environment
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including supporting staff with vicarious trauma/compassion fatigue
The Trauma-Informed Environment training will occur on November 8th, 2023 from 5-6:30 pm
Understanding Substance Abuse and Addictions
When people experience mental health and/or substance use problems, their lives are significantly affected—and they are not alone in their experiences. The impact of mental illness and addictions extends beyond the individual to family members, friends, co-workers and others. It is important to understand the impact of these issues on you and other family members and the role you can play in recovery.
Having a good understanding of substance use problems and the experiences of your loved one will help you to be supportive. In this session, we will explore terminology related to substance use and addiction. We will also look at why people use drugs, the risk factors and causes of addiction and how to recognize the signs of substance use problems.
The Understanding Substance Abuse and Addictions training will occur on January 17th, 2024 from 5-6:30 pm.
