A new school year begins next week in Newfoundland and Labrador. This is an exciting time for students, teachers, staff and parents.
The Provincial Government wants to remind people about the free e-health services available at http://www.bridgethegapp.ca/ to help build effective coping skills.
These include:
- Bridge the Gapp for youth and adults;
- BreathingRoom™;
- MindWell-U 30-Day Mindfulness Challenge;
- Strongest Families Institute’s anxiety and behavioural programs for ages 3-17;
- Strongest Families Institute’s I CAN (Conquer Anxiety and Nervousness) program for ages 18-30; and,
- Therapy Assistance Online (TAO).
People can also call 811 to speak to a registered nurse or dietician with their questions.
Open communication between parents and children is important. Regular conversations are a good way for parents to find out what exactly is on their child’s mind. It lets them work together on problem solving and planning. Establishing morning, eating and bedtime habits are also encouraged as they help create a daily routine for children.
Quotes
“Summer is almost over and next week a new school year begins. We want our students, parents, teachers and staff to have a positive year. The free tools available at bridgethegapp.ca are proven resources that can help support positive mental health.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Communities Services
“The beginning of the school year is an exciting and busy time. Everyone is looking forward to meeting new friends and learning new things. Sometimes a little apprehension accompanies this excitement, which is a normal reaction to new situations. I encourage everyone to focus on renewing and building new relationships which supports healthy schools and students, and promotes student success.”
Honourable Brian Warr
Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development
“We understand that returning to school after summer vacation can be a difficult time for both parents and students. School-related anxiety increases, especially worries around performance, separation and social situations. It is a challenging transition for many people. Strongest Families’ Anxiety programs equip families with proven skills to conquer anxiety with a 90 per cent success rate.”
Dr. Patricia Lingley-Pottie
President and CEO, Strongest Families Institute
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Learn more
Bridge the Gapp Online Resources
Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL, @HCS_GovNL and @EDU_GovNL
Media contacts
Tina Newhook
Health and Community Services
709-729-1377, 728-2837
tinanewhook@gov.nl.ca
Tina Coffey
Education and Early Childhood Development
709-729-1906, 687-9903
tcoffey@gov.nl.ca
Stacie Corrigan
Strongest Families Institute
902-442-9521
scorrigan@strongestfamilies.com