Moving to a new country is more than just a change of address. For a child, it means losing their familiar surroundings, severing social ties, encountering an unfamiliar language and culture, and often—the burden of past fears if the move was forced. Psychologists agree: any move, regardless of the reasons, is a significant source of psychological and emotional stress for a child. When this change occurs in the context of war, evacuation, and loss—the level of stress increases many times over.
For parents who have recently moved to Edmonton, one of the biggest challenges is talking to their child about what’s going on inside. How do you explain to a toddler why they’re crying for no reason? How do you talk to a teenager who has withdrawn and doesn’t want to hear anything? Should you even talk about “mental health”—or is it better to just give them time? There are no one-size-fits-all answers to these questions, but there are proven approaches based on research and the practical experience of specialists who help families in the process of emigration.
Edmonton offers not only theoretical support for this but also a whole network of practical resources—school programs, free clinics, helplines, and community organizations specifically geared toward the needs of newly arrived families.
Why Children’s Stress Looks Different from Adults’
The first step toward talking to a child about mental health is learning to recognize how they express their inner distress. Children rarely say, “I’m anxious” or “I miss home.” Instead, they show how they’re feeling through their behavior—and parents often mistake these signals for tantrums, disobedience, or discipline issues.
Preschoolers and early elementary school children may experience sleep difficulties, bedwetting (even if this issue was resolved long ago), increased clinginess toward parents, refusal to eat or participate in favorite activities, or complaints of stomachaches or headaches for which there is no medical explanation. For schoolchildren aged 8–12, stress may manifest as a decline in academic performance, outbursts of aggression, or, conversely, unusual quietness, nightmares, or feelings of guilt over what has happened.
Teenagers react differently. Since peers are a central focus in their lives, the loss of their usual social circle is particularly painful. Those who were previously sociable may suddenly withdraw. Cynicism, irritability, reluctance to attend school, and intense immersion in social media as a substitute for face-to-face interaction may emerge. Researchers from the University of Calgary and the University of Alberta, who studied the mental health of immigrant children and adolescents in Canada, emphasize that language barriers, uncertainty regarding immigration status, parental unemployment, and the need to adapt to a new educational system are critical risk factors for the mental health of newly arrived children.
At the same time, the researchers identified an important paradox: some immigrant children, despite objectively difficult conditions, demonstrate exceptional well-being and resilience. This is linked to the presence of so-called protective factors—specifically, open communication within the family, the preservation of family rituals, and a supportive school environment.
The First Barrier: The Parent’s Own State
Before starting a conversation with a child, you need to be honest with yourself. Children are extremely sensitive to the emotional state of the adults around them. If a father or mother is in a state of chronic stress, anxiety, or unresolved grief—no conversation technique can replace what the child sees every day.
Psychotherapists who work with families in forced emigration emphasize: the best thing parents can do for their child in the initial stage is to take care of their own well-being. This is not selfishness—it is a necessary condition. A parent who is relatively balanced themselves becomes a “guide” for the child in the new environment, rather than an additional source of anxiety.
Child psychologist Anna Shatalova, who works with displaced families, advises: “Fall in love with the new place and the new circumstances. Show them how interesting and safe it is to explore a new city.” This approach isn’t about pretending everything is wonderful. It’s about consciously seeking out and demonstrating the positive aspects of the new experience to the child, while acknowledging the complexity of the transition.
How to Talk Depending on Age
One of the most important principles in conversations about mental health is matching the language and depth of the conversation to the child’s developmental level. A conversation with a five-year-old and a conversation with a fourteen-year-old are fundamentally different.
With toddlers aged 2 to 5, the most important things are basic safety and the names of emotions. A child may not understand what “emigration” means, but they understand “sad,” “scared,” “angry,” and “happy.” Explanations should be specific and brief: “You miss Grandma—that’s normal, I miss her too,” “You’re angry because everything is different here—I understand.” At this age, picture books about emotions, shared bedtime rituals, and the parents’ physical presence are especially important.
For children aged 6 to 8, you can already explain the connection between the brain and the body—just as the body can get sick, our mood can also “get sick.” You can introduce a broader vocabulary: “anxious,” “depressed,” “lonely,” “overwhelmed.” It’s worth explaining that a psychologist is a “coach for emotions,” not a punishment. If a family member is going through a difficult time, it’s important to say clearly and simply: “Mom is feeling very sad right now because of the move. It’s not your fault, and you haven’t done anything wrong.”
Teenagers aged 9–12 are capable of processing more complex information. You can already talk to them more specifically about anxiety and depression, explain the neurobiology of stress in simple terms, and discuss that “asking for help is a sign of courage, not weakness.” It’s important to talk about the actual prevalence of psychological difficulties: in Canada, one in five young men or women faces mental health issues.
With teens aged 13–18, the conversation can and should be on equal footing. They need to be given more control over the situation—the chance to decide for themselves when and how they want to talk. Effective approach: ask without lecturing. Don’t say, “You need to talk,” but rather, “I’m here if you want to talk—I’ll listen.” Set a personal example: “I’m trying to understand my own feelings right now, and sometimes I see a psychologist—that’s normal.” A teenager is much more likely to accept this idea if they see it in action.
What to Tell Your Child About Relocating and Ukraine
One of the most sensitive issues for Ukrainian families is the question of identity. The word “refugee,” which a child might hear at school or from peers, often carries a stigmatizing connotation—and psychologists advise parents to be cautious with this terminology. Children and teenagers may perceive the word “refugee” as an insult, as a label for someone helpless and miserable—and this has a painful impact on their self-esteem.
For younger children, experts recommend phrasing such as: “We have temporarily left Ukraine,” “We are under temporary protection,” “Our home is Ukraine, and we will definitely do everything we can to support it.” This approach helps the child maintain a sense of belonging, the continuity of their own identity, and a connection to their homeland.
For older teenagers, you can explain the nuances—the difference between the status of temporary protection, displaced person, and refugee in the context of international law. It is important that they do not feel ashamed of their origins, but rather—that they can explain to others who they are and where they come from.
Researchers at the Canadian Family Health Foundation (CRFH) note that the mental health of Ukrainian youth in Canada is under unique pressure: they are forced to adapt to a new environment while the invasion of their homeland continues. This means that for them, processing their psychological experiences is not a completed process, but an ongoing one. That is why regular, open conversations within the family are far more valuable than a single “big talk.”
The Role of Routine and Stability
Scientific studies of children who have experienced migration clearly indicate that restoring predictability is one of the most powerful tools for stabilizing a child’s psychological state. Families that were able to quickly establish new shared rituals after moving—such as family dinners, evening reading or movie time, and Sunday walks—showed significantly better outcomes in children regarding the regulation of anger and stress responses.
This is particularly relevant for Edmonton: winter and an unfamiliar city can exacerbate feelings of isolation. Parents should actively seek out points of stability—whether it’s a regular video call with a grandmother in Ukraine, a traditional Saturday with Ukrainian cuisine, or signing up with their child for a club. Physical activity and participation in extracurricular activities are independent protective factors for the mental health of displaced children.
It is also important to continue maintaining social connections with those who stayed behind—through video calls, messages, or letters. For teenagers who are particularly struggling with the separation from their former friends, this is not just a nice gesture but a real psychological resource.
Edmonton Schools as Partners in the Conversation About Mental Health
Parents often don’t realize that Edmonton schools offer much more than just academic programs. The Edmonton Public Schools and Edmonton Catholic Schools systems have an extensive network of specialists who directly address students’ mental health.
SWIS (Settlement Workers in Schools) is a federally funded program that places specially trained counselors directly in Edmonton schools. They are not teachers—their role is to serve as a bridge between home and school, help parents navigate the education system, resolve cultural and language misunderstandings, and, if necessary, refer children to mental health resources. For a newly arrived family, simply meeting with a SWIS worker at your child’s school is already a practical first step.
Recovery Alberta Mental Health Specialists are present in every Edmonton Catholic Schools campus and have a contract with Edmonton Public Schools. These specialists provide individual therapy, crisis intervention, and prevention programs directly on school grounds. A referral from parents or teachers isn’t always necessary—often, it’s enough to speak with the homeroom teacher or school counselor.Edmonton Public Schools regularly holds free online sessions for parents as part of the Mental Health Parent and Caregiver Learning Series. During the 2025–2026 school year, these sessions cover topics such as “Understanding Mental Health and the Brain,” “Emotional Literacy: Helping Your Child Understand Their Feelings,” “Understanding Anxiety,” and others—all free of charge and available online. These sessions are held twice a month at different times of the day to accommodate parents with varying schedules.Enhanced Settlement Workers in Schools (ESWIS) — a more intensive program from the Newcomer Centre designed for students in grades 7–12 who are at risk. It provides personalized support to teens facing challenging situations: unstable housing, tension at home, or the risk of dropping out of school. The program is available to permanent residents and recognized refugees.## Where to Find Help Specifically for Children and TeensEdmonton and the rest of Alberta have several specific resources geared specifically toward young people and children.Kids Help Phone — Canada’s largest free, 24/7 mental health support service for youth aged 5 to 29. Starting in 2022, thanks to $2 million in funding from the Government of Canada, the service offers counseling in Ukrainian and Russian via an interpreter. Call: 1-800-668-6868, or text “CONNECT” to 686868. This is a confidential service, meaning a child can call on their own, without their parents’ knowledge.Kickstand Connect — a free virtual clinic for young Albertans aged 11 to 25. No doctor’s referral, health card, or payment is required. Same-day sessions (or with an appointment booked a week in advance) with a licensed therapist, peer support worker, or employment specialist. Additionally, there is a physical Kickstand center at the West Edmonton Mall. For teens who aren’t yet ready to see “official” psychologists, this resource can be an important first point of entry.Recovery Alberta — Centralized Intake for Children and Youth — a service you can contact without a referral at (780) 342-4415 to find appropriate mental health support services for children in Edmonton.Edmonton Newcomer Centre (formerly the Mennonite Centre for Newcomers) offers therapy and counseling for children, youth, couples, and families—free of charge, in a confidential setting. The staff takes into account clients’ cultural backgrounds, immigration circumstances, and gender expectations.
Conversation Practice: Specific Words and Approaches
Knowing the theory is one thing; having specific words is another. Here are a few approaches tested by psychologists when working with children after relocation.
Instead of “Everything’s fine, don’t worry,” it’s better to say: “I can see that this is hard for you. It’s hard for me sometimes, too. We’ll get through this together.” The first phrase dismisses the child’s feelings and teaches them to suppress them; the second normalizes the experience and strengthens a sense of togetherness.
Instead of “You should be grateful—we’re safe,” it’s better to say: “I’m glad we’re together and safe. And at the same time, I understand that you’re sad. Both feelings are valid.” Gratitude and sadness can coexist, and forcing a child to choose between them creates internal conflict.
If the child doesn’t want to talk—don’t insist on a direct conversation. For many children, the best conversations happen “on the side”—while playing together, taking a walk, drawing, or cooking. Don’t ask “How are you feeling?” but rather “What surprised you today?” or “What annoyed you today?” Open-ended, specific questions give the child the opportunity to talk about their experiences without labeling them.
For teenagers, watching movies or TV shows together where the characters go through similar situations—moving, adjusting, finding themselves—can be helpful. This provides a safe “third” topic for discussion: “What do you think this character is feeling?” can open the door to a much deeper conversation than a direct question.
Physical care—hugs, eating together, and co-sleeping for young children in the first few months—is an equally important “tool” for supporting mental health, not just a form of affection. A child’s nervous system is regulated through physical contact, and when words aren’t there yet, the body speaks first.
When Professional Help Is Needed
There is a difference between a normal reaction to the stress of moving and a situation that requires professional intervention—and it’s important to be able to recognize it.
Parents should consult a specialist if their child exhibits the following for two or more weeks: persistent low mood, refusal to eat or sleep, developmental regression (for example, bedwetting in a child who no longer had this issue), a significant decline in school performance, or if the child expresses thoughts such as “I wish I weren’t here” or “nobody cares about me.” The latter are signals that require immediate attention.
For teenagers, additional warning signs include self-isolation lasting more than a few weeks, alcohol or substance use, self-harm, or a sudden refusal to attend school. Research shows that fewer than 25% of young people who need psychological support actually receive it—which is why parental attention at an early stage is critical.
In Edmonton, the first step in such a situation could be either a call to Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868), an appointment through Kickstand Connect (mykickstand.ca), or reaching out to a school counselor or SWIS worker—all of these options are free and do not require a referral.## Stigma and How to Talk About ItIn Ukrainian culture, as in many others, there is a certain stigma surrounding seeking psychological help. “We’ll handle it ourselves,” “don’t air your dirty laundry in public,” “a psychologist is for those who aren’t right in the head.” These attitudes can be a barrier for both parents and the children themselves.It’s important to talk openly with children: seeing a psychologist isn’t a sign of weakness or “abnormality.” They are simply a professional who helps make sense of feelings—just as a dentist helps with teeth. When parents normalize psychological support in everyday conversations (“I called a helpline today because I wanted to talk about how I was feeling—it helped”), the child internalizes this attitude as natural.Kids Help Phone emphasizes: for many young people, particularly newcomers, stigma is one of the main barriers to seeking help. That is why the organization has formulated its mission as follows: to provide “a safe space to be heard”—without judgment, without registration, without a referral.## Additional Resources for Parents in EdmontonParents seeking support for themselves regarding their children’s mental health after moving can utilize the following resources:Edmonton Immigrant Services Association (EISA) provides after-school tutoring, mentoring, and social-emotional support to children and teens at dozens of schools across Edmonton. This combines academic and psychological support in one place. Contact: 780-474-8445.United Cultures of Canada Association (UCCA) runs the “Promoting Newcomer Mental Health Through Education and Community Service” program in Edmonton—offering resources, educational events, counseling, and community activities for newcomer families. Address: 810 Saddleback Rd NW #2, Edmonton.Alberta Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2642 operates 24/7 and provides interpreters, including Ukrainian. Parents who are struggling themselves can call anonymously.211 Alberta — by dialing 2-1-1, you can get a list of current mental health resources in Edmonton tailored to your specific situation. The service supports more than 250 languages.
Conclusion: The Conversation Doesn’t End
Talking about mental health isn’t a one-time event—it’s an ongoing practice. Moving to Edmonton for a child is a long process, not a single moment. Psychologists emphasize: you don’t need to have the right words. You just need to be there, be honest, and let your child know that any feelings—sadness, anger, fear, confusion—are acceptable and safe to express.
Edmonton has real tools to support this process: free school programs, children’s helplines in their native language, community organizations that understand the cultural context, and specialists who have gone through the experience of immigration themselves. Using them is not a sign of weakness. Quite the opposite.