Jann Arden’s Age of Acceptance
Only a few pages into Jann Arden’s new book, If I Knew Then: Finding Wisdom in Failure and Power in Aging, I am convinced she’s borrowed a tiny piece of my own experience with grief and put it on the page in my stead.
Suzanne Westover
Advancing recovery
Understanding recovery starts with acknowledging that every person is entitled to a satisfying, hopeful, and contributing life, even if they experience mental health problems or illnesses and/or substance use concerns. With that basic right comes a powerful shift to a path toward wellness that is rooted in hope, dignity, self-determination, and responsibility.
Sowing seeds of compassion
The challenges wrought by the pandemic are splashed across the news. They inundate our social media feeds and dominate our conversations (still masked and at a distance) if we run into neighbours at the convenience store or gas station.
Teaching students to be brave, reach out, and speak up about mental health
When much of the world shut down in March 2020, HEADSTRONG program manager Fiona Haynes was heartsick. HEADSTRONG summits are interactive gatherings that give young people the chance to learn about mental health and gain the tools they need to become anti-stigma champions and ambassadors in their schools and communities.
Parenting on mute
There is a “secret society” at the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), just like there is at every workplace across the country. Its members recognize each other through various signs and signals — some subtle, others less so.
Celebrating a behind-the-scenes champion
Phil Upshall, an influential mental health leader who was “ahead of his time”, had a strong impact on many initiatives at the MHCC.
A critical piece of the puzzle
For Dr. Mary Bartram, policy director at the Mental Health Commission of Canada, gaining a better understanding of the realities of those who work in the field of mental health and substance use is key to unlocking improved mental health outcomes.
Talking to Children About a Suicide
How to mentally prepare, what to expect (or not expect), and how to respond with language that is helpful, not harmful.
Supporting women’s mental health in and out of the workplace
Because the effects of the pandemic are not felt equally, the Mental Health Commission of Canada is turning its attention to populations that are disproportionately affected — including women.
