Mental Health & Well-Being - Anxiety

Together for Mental Health: Everyone, Everyday
Developing positive mental health is important to academic achievement and overall well-being.

Did you know that everyone experiences anxiety from time to time? Anxiety alerts us to threats, protects us from danger and helps us reach important goals. For example, it is normal to feel anxious when encountering a bear on a hike, or even before taking an important test or exam. Anxiety is not dangerous, and small doses of anxiety in certain situations are useful. It is helpful to think of anxiety like fog: if it covers everything, makes it hard to see, stops you from doing what you usually do, and generally gets in the way, then it has likely become a problem. If you feel that way, make sure you tell a teacher, parent or caregiver or another trusted adult. They can help you get the support you might need.

Families are invited to explore School Mental Health Ontario's By Your Side, a free online resource hub for Ontario parents and caregivers, designed to support mental health learning and well-being for every family.

This resource hub was developed with input from Ontario parents, caregivers, and school mental health professionals, and features practical tools, including videos, info sheets, and webinars on topics such as managing anxiety, understanding mental health, navigating digital technology and more.

Visit the School Mental Health Ontario website to learn more about By Your Side.