OCEA - Part Two - Dealing with sensitive issues

If you are worried it’s ok to ask - i.e. do you have suicidal thoughts?
You WILL NOT put an idea of self harm into a student's head by asking direct questions.

I loved the discussion around this point ... people brought up great points about using understandable and clear language

Early treatment can be critical - if you think something is up but can't deal with it yourself for some reason - bring the matter to someone else's attention!

Be calm and caring - non judgemental and supportive is really important

Encourage professional help - we are NOT experts and the most appropriate fcourse of action is to refer the student to a pro!

OCEA notes PART ONE

links you may find helpful:

www.ontario.cmha.ca

www.kidsmentalhealth.ca

www.thekeltyfoundation.org

(as discussed in the presentation)

some others I have used or printed material off for students in need:

www.sheenasplace.org
(eating disorders)

www.heretohelp.bc.ca
(bipolar/self mutilation and more)

www.depressioncanada.com
www.mooddisorderscanada.ca
(depression)


Thanks so much for being such an excellent audience - I look forward to constructive feedback to improve the next presentation ;)

more of the actual notes will follow once I'm back at school