Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board

During Mental Health Week (May 4–10, 2026), the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board is joining communities and workplaces across Canada to celebrate, protect, and promote mental health.

This year’s theme, “Come Together, Canada: Stronger connections, better mental health,” highlights the importance of connection to our overall well-being. At a time when many continue to experience loneliness and isolation, even small, everyday moments of connection can make a meaningful difference.

Reaching out, checking in, and simply being present for one another helps foster a sense of belonging and support, strengthening both individual well-being and the health of our community.

This message is especially meaningful as Mental Health Week coincides with Catholic Education Week, themed “Pilgrims of Hope: On the Path to Holiness.” As pilgrims of hope, we are called to walk together in faith, supporting one another with compassion, care, and understanding, and ensuring that no one walks alone.

“Mental health is deeply rooted in connection. Within our Catholic school communities, we are called to walk together with compassion and hope, creating spaces where every person feels seen, supported, and valued. By nurturing relationships grounded in empathy, faith, and care, we honour the dignity of the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and ensure that no one journeys alone.”
— Jenny Athanasiou Malisa, Sr. Manager of Student Mental Health Supports and Services

Rooted in Gospel values, our Catholic school communities recognize the importance of caring for the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. Through connection, kindness, and faith, we can support one another in building resilience and well-being.

“Supporting mental health is a vital expression of our Catholic faith—rooted in compassion, dignity, and the belief that every person deserves to feel seen, supported, and loved.”
— Caitlin Jones, Mental Health Lead

Staff, students, and families are invited to come together in solidarity, helping to build environments where all individuals feel seen, valued, and supported. Together, we can strengthen mental health and build more caring, inclusive communities.

Throughout Mental Health Week, schools will engage in activities that raise awareness about mental health and encourage connection across the school community.

The Resource Kit provided to all schools includes activities for students such as Christian Meditation, Prayer Jars, Wellness Bingo, Kindness Missions and Kindness Chains, Affirmation Cards, and more.

To learn more visit CMHA Mental Health Week

You can also explore mental health supports, resources, and information available to students and families through the HWCDSB Mental Health and Well-Being page.