Mental Health

Who Cares For The Caregiver?

“Supporting the Unsung Heroes: The Challenges and Mental Health of Caregivers” Caregivers, often unsung heroes, devote themselves to providing care and support to their loved ones. While their dedication is commendable, the journey of caregiving is not without its challenges, and it’s essential for caregivers to receive their own mental health support. Below, we will…

< Read More >

What is Self-Care?

What is Self-Care? Self-Care can be defined as… According to The National Institute of Mental Health, self-care means “taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health.” It may include partaking in steps to stay physically healthy, such as working out, hygiene, and nutrition.…

< Read More >

Couples Therapy isn’t about the Garbage

Anika looked out of the window and saw the garbage crew picking up garbage from every neighbour, but not theirs. She slammed the dishwasher shut hard enough to rattle all the dishes and cutlery, turned round, and screeched at her husband. “You didn’t bother to put the garbage out! Again!” Think about that statement for…

< Read More >

WE’RE MOVING BACK TO IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS!

Some of our therapists now offer in-office appointments again, while continuing to offer video and telephone sessions. Most of our clients have found video and telephone appointments effective and highly beneficial and we will continue to offer them. Some clients prefer in-office appointments and we are pleased to be able to provide them again. Here’s…

< Read More >

Apps That We Recommend For Mental Health

App & Print Resources Psychological First Aid Psychological First Aid The PFA Mobile app can assist responders who provide Psychological First Aid (PFA) to adults, families, and children. This app is helpful in that it talks about trauma in all ages and provides helpful education and links.

< Read More >

Coping with Seasonal Patterns & Bipolar

If you feel a shift in your mood as the seasons change, you’re not alone. Many people, whether they have bipolar disorder or not, are affected by the changing of the seasons. You may notice changes in your sleep, activity level, and mood. While the mechanisms by which these changes occur are still being studied, you may adapt your treatment plan to help cope with these transitions.Many individuals with bipolar disorder experience depression during the fall and winter months.

< Read More >

Harnessing the Power of Stress

Our understanding of stress has come a long way over the last couple of decades; arguably much further than the daily practice of stress management for most people.Harmful effects of stress are well documented in scientific literature. High blood pressure, headaches, stomach problems and a compromised immune system are a few examples of what stress can do to us.Employers and policy makers are starting to pay attention. Stressed workers are more likely to be unhealthy, poorly motivated, less

< Read More >

To Tell or Not to Tell? Disclosing Your Mental Illness to Your Employer

Currently, 1 in 5 Canadians are experiencing a mental illness or addiction and 1 of 2 Canadians will have, or have had, a mental illness by the time they reach 40 years of age1. Although these numbers tell us that mental illness is quite common, the stigma tied to mental illness continues to impact our perceptions of mental illness and our decisions around when or with whom to share our diagnoses—especially when it comes to disclosing to our employer.If you are looking for a cut-and-dry answer…

< Read More >

Over-Scheduling Mental Health Goals

When we begin to feel better, it can often be tempting to take on too many “self-improvement” goals or to try to commit to too many things at once. In this video, Samantha will discuss the importance of choosing 2-3 goals at a time, even if they are considered “small” goals – so movement towards mental health will continue…

< Read More >

Helping Children Through Grief

It is not always easy to know how to support children when they are grieving. Supporting them can become even more difficult when you are grieving yourself. In this video, Samantha will highlight some of the things you can do to support your child and help ensure they experience grief in a healthy way…

< Read More >