Post by Scarborough Health Network Foundation (SHN Foundation)

More young people in Scarborough are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, and emotional distress, and a first-of-its-kind mental health program at SHN is helping youth get support before they reach a crisis point. Today, on National Child and Youth Mental Health Day (May 7), we’re sharing the impact of The Slaight DBT Program at SHN. Made possible through the generosity of The Slaight Family Foundation and delivered in partnership with Strides Toronto, the program provides specialized Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), a skills-based approach that helps young people better manage overwhelming emotions, reduce harmful behaviours, and build healthier coping strategies. Since launching in 2024, the program has received more than 350 referrals and connected with more than 300 youth and young adults across Scarborough. Early results are already showing meaningful impact, including significant reductions in emergency department visits and inpatient admissions among participating youth. Every young person deserves access to mental health support close to home, and this program is helping make that possible in Scarborough. Pictured: Emily Crocker, Social Worker and DBT Therapist, SHN. Read the story: https://lnkd.in/e5Gg3gGy #NationalChildAndYouthMentalHealthDay #MentalHealthWeek #LoveScarborough #YouthMentalHealth #Scarborough