Mental Health Conference in Dryden

First hand accounts from youth living with a mental health disorder touched a packed audience at last Friday’s Youth Mental Health in Schools Awareness Symposium in Dryden.
A youth panel provided their thoughts on mental health issues in area schools.
The day-long event also featured keynote speaker Dr. Michael Stambrook who stressed the importance of early detection.
He stresses that Northwestern Ontario has a significant proportion of children who are affected by parental substance abuse.
Stambrook says teachers must have their eyes more wide open to identify students at risk and provide referral to Mental Health Agencies.
The issue of depression was brought up during discussions.
Stambrook stresses the issue doesn’t get the attention it deserves and notes more support services are needed for those living with depression.