How COVID-19 can help us understand psychiatric illnesses
This morning I woke up to find that my nose was running, and I had a cough. Is it the dreaded COVID-19? The common cold? This year’s strain of influenza? Allergies?
Helping kids build resilience to bullying
In Canada, at least 1 in 3 adolescent students have reported being bullied and almost half of parents have reported having a child that is the victim of bullying. Yet, in most cases, bullying stops within 10 seconds when peers intervene, or do not support the bullying behaviour.
Speaking up about student mental health
To say I was not fully prepared for post-secondary studies is an understatement. It was not a question of intelligence or academic ability. It had more to do with my mental health and lack of support. Yet against all odds, I was successful and graduated from university. How did I manage to complete my degree
How to shape your mindset for a positive outlook
Picture yourself on an airplane, rain pelting against the windows as you accelerate down the runway. Its gloomy, wet, and dark. With clouds masking the horizon, you begin to lift off, and as the plane stutters, you continue to climb through the storm. Suddenly, you emerge out of the darkness and into the daylight. Blue skies as far as the eye can see. It’s beautiful, calm and inviting.
A diagnosis does not stop me from following my dreams
I was diagnosed with schizophrenia in 1996. I struggled because I couldn’t find stable employment until four years ago. This is because as a schizophrenic, I was not seen for who I really am and what I can do. I feel that we are seen as incapable and as dangerous. But I am a wife and a mother, and I am now self-employed.
How building a support system helps my mental health
I’m hoping that by sharing some of my personal experiences (because I’m still learning new lessons myself daily), I can help someone else out there.
Seven ways to cope with the winter blues
Winter blues are more common than you might think. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that people in northern climates usually experience during the fall and winter months, when there’s less sunlight.