Third installment of Vital Perspectives series explores impact of belonging and well-being in youth

A new installment in Southwestern Public Health’s Vital Perspectives storytelling series focuses on the importance of belonging in schools and its impact on youth. Featuring voices from students, educators, and public health staff, this third episode in the four-part series highlights how meaningful collaboration between school communities and public health can foster safer, more inclusive environments where student well-being can thrive. 

“Belonging is not just a feeling – it is a social determinant of health that is associated with improved mental health, decreased risk of problematic substance use, and decreased likelihood of youth involvement in crime,” says Erica Arnett, Manager of the Healthy Schools Team at Southwestern Public Health. “We work closely with schools to deliver programming that helps students gain a positive sense of belonging, because when youth feel like they belong, they are more likely to do better academically, socially, and emotionally.” 

According to the 2019-20 Canadian Community Health Survey, seven in 10 youth age 12 and older reported a strong or somewhat strong sense of belonging to their local community. Youth who feel a sense of belonging are more likely to develop confidence and self-identity.

The Vital Perspectives series uses storytelling from public health, community partners, and people with lived experiences to shed light on important public health issues impacting the community. The series launched in 2023, with the opioid crisis, climate change, belonging, and income identified as the four annual topics the series will explore. 

“Vital Perspectives is an opportunity to tell the stories of how public health works with partners to achieve a more vibrant, healthier community,” says Cynthia St. John, Chief Executive Officer at Southwestern Public Health. “This is about strong partnership in action, with collaborative programming with school boards to ensure youth are supported, both inside and outside of the classroom.” 

Vital Perspectives: Belonging is available on our website. Educators, families, and community partners to encouraged to explore the stories and consider how we all contribute to building a sense of belonging for youth.