Coping with Trauma, Stress, and Racial Injustice
Access to: Individual Counselling
Many young Black individuals and their families face emotional challenges due to intergenerational trauma, systemic racism, discrimination, and cultural stigma. In response, HSDE Canada offers the Youth Empowerment – Mental Health & Wellness program, a free, confidential, and culturally sensitive counselling service available in French and English.
This program supports youth , and special Black, African, and Caribbean youth (ages 12–29) through participating in individual and/or sessions with family:
– Trauma-informed care from culturally competent professionals with lived experience
– Support to build self-esteem, strengthen conflict resolution skills, and enhance resilience
– Safe spaces to explore identity, culture, and belonging in the face of systemic barriers
Sessions are available in-person, virtually, or by phone, offering flexible access tailored to each individual’s concerns that may include :
Mental Health Stigma and Lack of Awareness
Access to: Informational Resources
Mental health stigma in Black communities often prevents open dialogue and timely access to care. HSDE Canada addresses this by offering bilingual educational materials and awareness initiatives that empower individuals and families to understand, discuss, and prioritize mental well-being.
We provide:
– Educational brochures and toolkits on topics like anxiety, trauma, and stress management
– Provide mental health literacy
– Community workshops and webinars to raise awareness and encourage early intervention
– These tools help dismantle stigma, foster mental health literacy, and encourage proactive care-seeking behavior.
-Accessing community resources (e.g., food security, housing, education, employment, health care, income support, legal and social/recreation)
Isolation, Disconnection, and Identity Struggles
Access to: Group Support Programs
Young Black individuals often experience feelings of disconnection, identity conflict, and social isolation. To address this, HSDE Canada facilitates peer support groups and community-based mental health circles, providing culturally safe environments for healing and empowerment.
Led by trained facilitators and mental health professionals, these sessions focus on:
– Coping with racial trauma and life transitions
– Parenting and family wellness
– Youth identity, self-worth, and resilience (ages 12–25)
– Healing from grief, loss, and emotional wounds
These group spaces foster trust, reduce isolation, and build community-based strength and solidarity.
Our Commitment
At HSDE Canada, we are dedicated to creating a mental health care environment that is inclusive, affirming, and accessible for young Black people and their families. Through counselling, education, and community support, we promote healing, resilience, and well-being.
Together, we are building a future where mental health care is a right not a privilege for every Black youth and family.
