May 1st, 2026

Since 1951, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) has hosted Mental Health Week during the first week in May. Mental Health Week is a Canadian tradition, with communities, schools and workplaces rallying to celebrate, protect and promote mental health.

Mental Health Week in the WRDSB

Next week, the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) is marking Mental Health Week alongside CMHA. Mental health is an important component of the overall well-being of students and staff. We continue to recognize and create environments that provide the support and resources we all need to thrive.

Mental health affects everyone. We recognize the importance of ensuring that we are providing resources that are relevant and responsive. We are also mindful that our approach to supporting mental health and well-being needs to be:

  • Identity-affirming
  • Inclusive of all WRDSB students and staff

Stronger Connections, Better Mental Health

Our theme this year is Come Together, WRDSB: Stronger Connections, Better Mental Health. 

This Mental Health Week, CMHA is inviting us to connect with ourselves and one another. Mental health is strengthened through connection, which reduces isolation, increases belonging, and supports well-being. 

Need Help Now?

Find immediate support and resources on our website: Need Help Now?

If your matter is urgent, please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.

Community Resources 

Visit our website to find community resources, including: 

Mental Health and Addictions Strategic Plan (MHASP)

Each school board is required to develop a Three-Year Mental Health and Addictions Strategy to address the priorities and needs of every student. From these strategic plans come annual Action and Implementation plans, which identify the steps to be taken that year to move forward towards the vision.

We are committed to co-creating mentally healthy schools that are:

  • Identity-affirming
  • Culturally responsive
  • Supportive of the individual needs of all learners

Last year, 2,500 WRDSB parents, families and caregivers responded to a survey that, alongside staff and student data and perspectives, helps us to shape our approach to supporting student mental health and well-being. Thank you to the many parents and caregivers who took the time to share their perspectives!

Learn more about our plan to support student mental health and wellbeing.

Categories: Principal's Message