OACAS is pleased to announce the launch of Healthy Minds, Healthy Lives, a new learning series for caregivers in child welfare.
Developed in collaboration with provincial partners and experts, the Healthy Minds, Healthy Lives series was created specifically for foster, group, kin, adoptive, and customary caregivers. The series focuses on helping them to understand the types of mental health challenges faced by children and youth in the child welfare system, so that they are better equipped to help them.
Some of the topics in the learning series include signs and symptoms of mental health concerns; trauma, attachment, and mental health; supporting youth with risky behaviours; and supporting the mental wellness of Indigenous, Black, and LGBT2SQ+ youth. There is a particular focus on identities that are overrepresented in the child welfare system and the impacts that racism, oppression, and discrimination against these groups can have on their well-being. It also includes self-care strategies and practices to encourage caregivers to prioritize their own health and emotional well-being.
What you need to know about the Healthy Minds, Healthy Lives learning series:
- It’s for foster, group, kin, adoptive, and customary caregivers.
- It’s available for free.
- All the content is available in French and English.
- It can be done independently and at your own pace. There are no pre-requisites.
- New course content will be rolled out every two weeks over the summer, so stay tuned!
Interested in learning more? Click here.
The first course of the Healthy Minds, Healthy lives learning series is available for immediate registration on the myOACAS Learning portal.
Don’t have a myOACAS Learning account? Email HealthyMinds@oacas.org.
