Mental Health Action Plan

Mental Health and Well–Being Policy

Resources

Mental Health Awareness Week

ADHD Awareness Month

October is ADHD Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects up to 12% of children. Children with ADHD may experience challenges with focusing attention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity. Many individuals with ADHD continue to face these challenges into adulthood, often alongside co-occurring conditions such as learning disabilities, mood disorders, and behavioural difficulties.

Early identification, treatment, and support can significantly improve the ability of children with ADHD to manage their symptoms and lead successful lives. Without appropriate interventions, children with ADHD may experience academic struggles, relationship difficulties, and other challenges.

We encourage families to explore the resources below to learn more about ADHD and how to support children at home:

• Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)

• Centre for ADHD Awareness, Canada (CADDAC)

Additionally, children with ADHD often benefit from support in developing social-emotional skills, such as executive functioning, managing emotions, and perseverance. Families are encouraged to try these easy and fun mental health activities at home to foster skills related to the six areas of social-emotional learning.