A series of ten videos helping children learn how to cope in times of crisis

Last week, the BC Schizophrenia Society (BCSS) launched its “Caring for You” video series as part of the Kids in Control program. These videos will help children learn how to take care of themselves by bringing topics from Kids in Control to families in their own homes. These are difficult times for everyone, mostly due to circumstances out of our control. But by learning ways to take care of themselves and their feelings, children can feel a sense of control again.

These videos are free and geared towards children aged 8 to 12. Through this series, children will learn about feelings, healthy ways to express their feelings, and coping strategies. They will gain a better understanding of mental illness, what it means when a loved one has a mental illness, and skills to take care of themselves. Families are encouraged to watch these videos together.

“When I was young, I didn’t feel like there was anything I could do, I felt powerless,” says Rachel Phillips, manager of the BCSS’ Kids and Teens in Control programs, on having a family member with mental illness. “I wish I had Kids in Control, because the tools and information provided through the sessions—and now the videos—would’ve helped me understand that yes, some things might have been out of my control, but I still had control over how to take care of myself.”

“So many of us are experiencing mental health challenges during these unprecedented and unpredictable times. And when one person in a family is struggling, everyone—including children—can be affected,” said Judy Darcy, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “These videos are a great way to empower young people to express how they are feeling, learn how to care for themselves, and ask for help when they need it now and throughout their lives.”

“During this time of physical distancing, we at BCSS are always looking for different ways to get tools and information into the hands of family members,” says Faydra Aldridge, chief executive officer of the BC Schizophrenia Society. “And these videos are one way we are adjusting our Kids in Control program to reach children and youth with parents or siblings who live with mental illness.”

Funding for this project was generously provided by the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions.