Sudbury students unite to promote mental health

The HEADSTRONG Summit is an initiative focused on youth mental health and well-being in Sudbury. Nearly 100 students from CSC Nouvelon, Conseil scolaire du Grand Nord, Sudbury Catholic District School Board and Rainbow District School Board will come together to reflect on mental health. (Supplied) On Oct.

21, students from Conseil scolaire catholique Nouvelon secondary schools will take part in the HEADSTRONG Summit, an initiative focused on youth mental health and well-being. The annual event takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Collège Boréal. Nearly 100 students from CSC Nouvelon, Conseil scolaire du Grand Nord, Sudbury Catholic District School Board and Rainbow District School Board will come together to reflect on their well-being, develop their leadership skills and connect with their peers in an inspiring environment.

Through icebreaker activities, breakout sessions and keynote presentations, participants will also have the opportunity to hear from community partners and local leaders who will share their experiences and insights. “The HEADSTRONG Summit provides our students and staff with a meaningful space for open dialogue and learning,” Valérie Larivière, mental health and well-being lead at CSC Nouvelon, said in a release.

“This experience helps them deepen their understanding of mental health issues, which empowers them to become positive agents of change, and to play an active role in building more inclusive and caring school communities. The day also helps foster lasting support networks for our youth.

Created by the Mental Health Commission of Canada, HEADSTRONG is a national program that aims to raise awareness about mental health among youth and reduce the stigma surrounding it. Through interactive activities and meaningful discussions, young people aged 12 to 18 gain practical tools to promote mental health and well-being, while developing and implementing initiatives within their secondary schools. sud.editorial@sunmedia.ca Bluesky: @sudburystar.bsky.social X: @SudburyStar READ NEXT