Breaking the Waitlist Cycle: Supporting Families Facing Childhood Mental Health Struggles
As we turn our attention to Mental Illness Awareness Week (#MIAW2024), we are reminded that
Canada’s mental health crisis is deeply affecting families. With young people and families
experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and stress; disruptive
behaviours like tantrums, not listening, arguing and aggression; and other common childhood
issues such as nighttime bedwetting., The emotional toll on young people and families is
undeniable. Yet, despite the rising demand for mental health support, many families face lengthy
waitlists for critical services, leaving them without immediate access to the help they desperately
need.
The Waitlist Dilemma
In Canada, waitlists for mental health programs can stretch from months to years. Families with
children experiencing anxiety or disruptive behaviours are often left navigating these issues
without professional support. This can further strain family dynamics and increase stress levels
for both parents and children not only now but into the future. We know that untreated childhood
mental health problems can evolve into more serious issues in adolescence and adulthood.
The Impact on Families
When children struggle with mental health disorders, it doesn’t just affect the individual—it
disrupts the entire family unit. Anxiety and its effects are emotionally draining for parents, who
often feel helpless in managing their child’s needs. Parents may also experience their own
mental health challenges, such as anxiety or depression, as they juggle between their child’s
care and the well-being of the entire family.
Without timely access to mental health programs, families are left to manage their child’s
emotional and behavioural issues without guidance. This delay can worsen the situation,
increasing tension, frustration, and burnout in parents.
A Path Forward
Programs like Strongest Families’ clinically proven, free, bilingual e-mental health solutions fill
the gap. With Strongest Families, there is no wait! These timely, accessible, and family-centred
mental health programs offer immediate support—without the waitlists—through Telephone
Support Coaching and valuable coping skills. Over 80,000 families across Canada have found
that these programs not only alleviate childhood anxiety, depression and stress, but also
promote positive parenting practices that restore balance and harmony in the household.
There is no need to travel, miss time at work or school and coaching calls are scheduled at
convenient times for families. Strongest Families program skills have been shown to overcome
childhood mental health issues. At the end of the programs, most children, youth and families
report life-changing results, including improved grades and school attendance, gain sense of
confidence, stronger relationships with peers and family members and reduced stress.
Parent Quote: Chase Worries Away
“It helped us to all be on the same page with expectations. My child’s personality grew and he
felt more confident and felt like he was able to do things that would otherwise make him feel
anxious.”
Act Now – Your wait is over!
If your family is facing the challenges of childhood anxiety, depression, or stress, disruptive
behaviours, or even nighttime bedwetting, you don’t have to wait to get help. The waitlists for
traditional services are long, but Strongest Families can provide immediate support, paving the
way to a happier, healthier path forward.
Explore our award winning programs today to access timely mental health support for your
child. Don’t let the waitlists stop you from getting the help your family needs. Break the cycle
now and start building a stronger, more confident family.