New identity-affirming school mental health frame offers areas for reflection and action
When identities are affirmed and celebrated, when students feel a sense of belonging, purpose, meaning and hope, they are more likely to feel a strong sense of positive mental health, well-being and connection at school. In contrast, when their intersecting identities are ignored, excluded or misunderstood, or when they experience racism or oppression in its many forms, students can suffer emotionally and have to work much harder than others to gain a sense of wellness.
The Identity-Affirming School Mental Health Frame expands from the centre of the three-year school mental health strategy. It provides areas for reflection and action as school boards introduce and expand identity-affirming and differentiated mental health supports that wrap around every student.