Parents Confident in Spotting Youth Mental Health Issues, Survey Reveals

A recent survey conducted by **Harris Poll Canada** reveals that while a significant majority of parents feel confident in identifying early warning signs of mental health challenges in their children, many lack awareness of the local support programs available to assist them. The survey indicates that **90 percent** of parents believe they can recognize these signs, yet **44 percent** reported being unaware of early intervention programs in their communities.

Maureen Brennan, director of **IWK Mental Health and Addictions**, emphasized the importance of these available resources during an interview with **95.7 NewsRadio**. “There are a number of programs available at the IWK and **NS Health Mental Health and Addictions Program** for youth who are struggling with mental health issues,” she stated.

Brennan elaborated on the services offered, mentioning the presence of ambulatory community mental health and addictions clinics that cater to youth. She said, “We have clinicians across **Nova Scotia** schools. We have prevention and promotion services that go out into the community to support families and caregivers.” In addition to these general services, specialized programs are also available, ensuring that youth and their families receive well-rounded support tailored to their needs.

The survey highlights a crucial gap in awareness that could hinder timely intervention for youth experiencing mental health challenges. Parents, while confident in their ability to identify issues, may find themselves at a loss when it comes to accessing necessary support.

For those seeking more information, Brennan encourages families to visit the websites of **IWK** and **NS Health** to familiarize themselves with the programs that can provide essential assistance.

Recognizing the signs of mental health issues is the first step in addressing them effectively, but understanding how to access support remains equally important. Increased awareness of local resources could enhance the ability of parents to seek timely help for their children, ultimately promoting better mental health outcomes across communities.