Episodes

  • Episode 13: Managing Your Mental Health

    Episode 13: Managing Your Mental Health
    May 8 2025
    In this episode, hosts Jessica Samuels and Mike Gawliuk unpack what it really means to “manage your mental health” — and how that differs from managing mental illness. Together, they explore everyday actions, habits, and mindset shifts that can help anyone take better care of their mental well-being, with a strong focus on understanding why these strategies work. Key Topics Discussed:Mental Health vs. Mental Illness Learn the critical distinction between having mental health (which we all do) and having a mental illness (a diagnosable condition). You can flourish or struggle with mental health — whether or not you have a diagnosis.Self-Care vs. Self-Soothing Not all “feel-good” actions are created equal. Mike and Jessica break down how to tell the difference: if it leaves you better after the fact, it’s self-care; if not, it may just be a momentary self-soothe.Tips & Tools for Everyday Mental Health From evidence-backed strategies to lived experience, they dive into:Nature and Exercise – How time outdoors and movement regulate stress and mood.Volunteering & Social Connection – Combat loneliness, build purpose, and improve emotional health.Pets – How furry companions promote mindfulness, routine, and connection.Kindness & Gratitude – Backed by science, simple acts can lift your mood and even boost your lifespan.Empowerment Through Action The episode emphasizes that managing mental health is not about perfection but about finding tools that support you — and using them regularly.Key Takeaways:“Mental health is like physical health — we all have it.”“Self-care is not selfish — it’s necessary.”“Seventeen minutes in nature can make a measurable difference.”“Acts of kindness can be more effective than therapy.”**Resources Self-carehttps://www.snhu.edu/about-us/newsroom/health/what-is-self-carehttps://cmha.ca/news/self-care-simplified-why-its-essential-and-how-to-make-it-happen/#:~:text=Regular%2C%20quality%20self%2Dcare%20has,symptoms%20of%20anxiety%20and%20depression.&text=It%20can%20also%20help%20build,life's%20many%20stressors%20and%20challenges.https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/a-deeper-wellness/202302/understanding-the-mental-health-and-self-care-connectionVS self-soothehttps://blog.ab.bluecross.ca/lifestyle/focus-on-you-self-care-versus-self-soothe/https://urbanwellnesscounseling.com/self-care-vs-self-soothing/Naturehttps://namica.org/blog/mental-health-benefits-of-nature/https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2015/06/hiking-mental-health-063015https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4204431/https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/mental-health/the-mental-health-benefits-of-nature-spending-time-outdoors-to-refresh-your-mind/https://www.discoverycollegekelowna.com/courses-workshops/nature-mental-health-part-1Exercisehttps://www.helpguide.org/wellness/fitness/the-mental-health-benefits-of-exercisehttps://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/more-evidence-that-exercise-can-boost-moodhttps://mentalhealthcommission.ca/blog-posts/57251-move-to-boost-your-mental-health/https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/more-evidence-that-exercise-can-boost-moodVolunteeringhttps://cmhato.org/news/7-reasons-why-volunteering-is-good-for-our-mental-health/https://www.nami.org/people/how-volunteering-improves-mental-health/https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10902-020-00242-8https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/the-recovery-coach/202407/the-mental-and-physical-health-benefits-of-volunteeringConnectionhttps://ccare.stanford.edu/uncategorized/connectedness-health-the-science-of-social-connection-infographic/https://bc.cmha.ca/news/social-connection-is-the-cure/https://www.cdc.gov/social-connectedness/about/index.htmlPetshttps://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/pets-and-mental-healthhttps://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/health-benefits-of-pets-how-your-furry-friend-improves-your-mental-and-physical-health/2024/04Pet & Autismhttps://habri.org/blog/the-human-animal-bond-for-autism-spectrum-disorder/https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/nurturing-self-esteem-in-autistic-children/202211/is-owning-pet-beneficial-autistic-childrenGratitudehttps://adaa.org/learn-from-us/from-...
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    23 mins
  • Crisis Response Community Led (CRCL) | Forward Focus #2 | A Way Forward

    Crisis Response Community Led (CRCL) | Forward Focus #2 | A Way Forward
    Apr 30 2025

    In this Forward Focus episode, Jessica Samuels and co-host Mike Gawliuk shine a spotlight on CRCL – Crisis Response Community Led, formerly known as PACT.

    Jessica and Mike break down what CRCL is, how it works, and why this model matters now more than ever:

    What is CRCL?
    CRCL provides community-based, in-person mental health crisis support for individuals 13 years and older. It addresses issues like emotional regulation challenges and substance use crises, offering immediate support, connecting individuals to services, and providing follow-up care.

    Why the name change from PACT to CRCL?
    To reduce confusion with other similarly named programs, and to better align with its Peer Assisted Care Team (PACT) roots—a model recognized globally with over 200 programs in place.

    How is CRCL different?
    CRCL teams combine mental health professionals with individuals who have lived experience navigating mental health challenges. This pairing provides a more humane, empathetic, and relatable response during crises.

    Where is CRCL operating?
    Six CRCL teams are currently active across British Columbia, with a seventh launching soon in Kamloops. The provincial government has committed to expanding to 12 teams, including ones led by Indigenous organizations.

    Will CRCL come to Kelowna?
    Mike expresses hope, noting Kelowna's clear advocacy for a Circle team, especially highlighted in its community safety plan.

    Connect with Us:
    Got questions about Circle or mental health services?
    📩 Email: awayforward@cmhakelowna.org
    🌐 Website: cmhakelowna.org

    A Way Forward Podcast is proudly presented by Beem Credit Union. BlueShore Financial, GFCU Savings, Gulf & Fraser, Interior Savings, and North Peace Savings are trade names of Beem Credit Union
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    5 mins
  • Episode 12: Mental Health & Caregiving

    Episode 12: Mental Health & Caregiving
    Apr 23 2025
    In Episode 12: Mental Health & Caregivers of A Way Forward Podcast | Presented by Beem Credit Union, hosts Jessica Samuels and Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, explore the realities of mental health and caregiving. As millions of Canadians provide unpaid care to loved ones, the toll on caregivers—especially family caregivers—is growing. Jessica and Mike unpack new data, share personal stories, and offer guidance for those dealing with this often-invisible situation. Key Topics Discussed:Who is a caregiver? Defining the broad range of caregiving roles: professional, family, and volunteer caregivers.The unpaid care crisis in Canada 5.7 billion unpaid hours of care are provided annually—valued at over $97 billion.Aging population = Rising demand With an aging demographic, caregiving needs are set to double—impacting both unpaid and professional caregiving systems.Mental health impacts of caregiving Caregivers often experience fatigue, stress, financial strain, and social isolation. Jessica and Mike discuss both the rewarding and difficult aspects of caregiving.Caregiver burnout and what to watch for Learn to recognize early signs of burnout: low mood, sleep issues, appetite changes, and increased substance use.Strategies for self-care & support Tips include accepting help, seeking respite care, connecting with others, and using caregiver assessments to monitor your own well-being.Global examples of caregiver support Countries like the UK, Germany, and Australia offer caregiver allowances, respite care, and training programs—what can Canada learn?Key Takeaways:Caregiving is everywhere – 1 in 4 Canadians are caregivers; this will rise to 1 in 2.Most care is unpaid – Over $97B worth of unpaid caregiving in Canada annually.Older caregivers are rising – Many are 65+ and need care themselves.Canada lags in supports – Other countries offer stipends, respite, training.Caregiver burnout is real – Watch for sleep/mood changes, withdrawal, overwhelm.Marginalized groups hit harder – Racialized, Indigenous, and 2SLGBTQIA+ caregivers face extra barriers.Support is available – Use tools, groups, and respite services to cope.Resources:Caregiver statshttps://canadiancaregiving.org/sage-magazine-fall-2024-issue-caregivers-need-support-now/https://www.statcan.gc.ca/o1/en/plus/2649-more-half-women-canada-are-caregivershttps://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/200108/dq200108a-eng.htmhttps://www.federalretirees.ca/en/news-views/news-listing/november/caregivers-need-support-now#:~:text=Statistics%20Canada%20reports%20almost%20eight,or%20problems%20related%20to%20aging.What it means to be a caregiverhttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9225-caregiver-burnoutImpacts of caregiving https://canadiancaregiving.org/media-release-caring-in-canada/https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-46-on-the-coast/clip/16067739-caregiver-survey-reveals-dire-situation-canadahttps://www.aptnnews.ca/national-news/family-caregivers-say-lack-of-disability-services-leading-to-burnout-in-nunavut-study/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/london/caregivers-accessible-supports-1.7324691https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2791523/https://www.hrreporter.com/focus-areas/compensation-and-benefits/caregiving-responsibilities-holding-back-workers-careers-says-expert/388600https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9225-caregiver-burnoutTaking care of yourselfhttps://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/caregiver-stress/art-20044784https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/Thank you for tuning in to A Way Forward Podcast! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and share it with others who may benefit. Stay tuned for more conversations on mental health in future episodes.Follow CMHA Kelowna:Website: CMHA KelownaInstagram: @cmhakelownaFacebook: CMHA KelownaA Way Forward Podcast is proudly presented by Beem Credit Union. BlueShore Financial, GFCU Savings, Gulf & Fraser, Interior Savings, and North Peace Savings are trade names of Beem Credit Union
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    25 mins
  • Episode 11: Workplace Mental Health

    Episode 11: Workplace Mental Health
    Apr 14 2025
    In Episode 11: Workplace Mental Health of A Way Forward Podcast | Presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Candace Giesbrecht, Director of People, Culture & Engagement at CMHA Kelowna, to explore what it means to have a mentally healthy workplace—and why it's a shared responsibility across the entire organization. They discuss how measuring psychological safety, addressing burnout, and making evidence-informed decisions can drive long-term culture change in the workplace.Key Topics Discussed:1. What Is a Mentally Healthy Workplace?Why it’s more than just a CEO or HR declaration.The role of shared responsibility and leadership buy-in.Importance of aligning actual work with job descriptions and expectations.2. Measuring Psychological SafetyIntroduction to Guarding Minds at Work, a free, evidence-based assessment tool.Explanation of the 13 psychosocial factors that influence workplace mental health.How asking staff for input—and acting on it—can improve trust and engagement.3. CMHA Kelowna’s Journey to Address BurnoutUsing data to identify burnout risk as a key area for improvement.Shifting onboarding practices and job clarity to reduce staff overwhelm.Why meaningful change took two years—and how it led to better hiring, reduced turnover, and deeper organizational insight.4. From Insight to ActionThe importance of going beyond surveys to follow through with transparent communication and real change.The impact of getting senior leaders involved in front-line observations.How even small, focused actions can spark broader transformation.5. Starting the Conversation as a LeaderTips for senior leaders to break the stigma and foster openness about mental health.The power of vulnerability in leadership: "I’m not feeling like myself—anyone else?"Using relevant stats or research to spark meaningful workplace conversations.Key Takeaways:A mentally healthy workplace requires more than intention—it needs measurement, leadership, follow-up, and time.Burnout can be addressed by tackling root causes like onboarding, job clarity, and realistic expectations.Just asking how staff are doing can start a ripple effect—but only if it's followed by action.Leaders set the tone. Courageous conversations from the top can help break stigma and shift culture.Resources:What is MH in the Workplacehttps://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/mental-health-workplace.htmlhttps://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-at-workhttps://cpa.ca/psychology-works-fact-sheet-mental-health-and-the-workplace/https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/psychosocial/mh/mentalhealth_address.htmlhttps://mentalhealthcommission.ca/what-we-do/workplace/ Stats on MH in workplacehttps://cmha.ca/what-we-do/national-programs/workplace-mental-health/takeaways/https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-at-workhttps://www.mhrc.ca/workplace-mental-healthhttps://www.mhrc.ca/psychological-health-and-safety-2024 Burnouthttps://cpa.ca/psychology-works-fact-sheet-workplace-burnout/https://www.apa.org/topics/healthy-workplaces/workplace-burnouthttps://www.canada.ca/en/government/publicservice/wellness-inclusion-diversity-public-service/health-wellness-public-servants/mental-health-workplace/preventing-burnout.htmlhttps://workplacementalhealth.org/employer-resources/infographics/infographic-beating-burnout-at-work Achieving and Maintaining MH in the workplace https://13factors.ca/13-factors#:~:text=13%20psychosocial%20risk%20factors%20were,manager%20mental%20health%20and%20wellbeing.https://mentalhealthcommission.ca/13-factors-addressing-mental-health-in-the-workplace/https://mentalhealthcommission.ca/national-standard/https://www.workplacestrategiesformentalhealth.com/resources/guarding-minds-at-workhttps://www.guardingmindsatwork.ca/https://www.cmhakelowna.com/education-training/workplace-traininghttps://peopleworkingwellbc.ca/https://www.ccohs.ca/healthymindshttps://peopleworkingwellbc.ca/mental-health-for/hospitality-tourism/https://peopleworkingwellbc.ca/mental-health-for/community-social-services/https://peopleworkingwellbc.ca/mental-health-for/healthcare/ Thank you for tuning in to A Way Forward Podcast! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and share it with others who may benefit. Stay tuned for more conversations on mental health in future episodes.Follow CMHA Kelowna:Website: CMHA KelownaInstagram: @cmhakelownaFacebook: CMHA KelownaA Way Forward Podcast is proudly presented by Beem Credit Union. BlueShore Financial, GFCU Savings, Gulf & Fraser, Interior Savings, and North Peace Savings are trade names of Beem Credit Union
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    36 mins
  • Central Okanagan Rent Bank | Forward Focus #1 | A Way Forward Podcast

    Central Okanagan Rent Bank | Forward Focus #1 | A Way Forward Podcast
    Apr 2 2025

    Welcome to the first episode of Forward Focus, our quick-hit, bit-sized episodes that gives you insight and information about the things you want to know.

    Today's episode focuses on the Central Okanagan Rent Bank. CMHA Kelowna believes that everyone has the right to safe and affordable housing. The rising cost of living means that there are many people who are only a paycheque or two away from not being able to pay their rent. When we can remove the stress of choosing between paying rent and paying for life’s necessities like food – an incredible burden is lifted and leaves room for us to move forward in our lives. At CMHA Kelowna we have a mission to create a mentally healthy community, and we believe that having a place to call home is part of the foundation of good mental health.

    The Central Okanagan Rent Bank program helps to increase the housing stability in our community for individuals who are experiencing short-term financial difficulties. The rent bank offers interest–free repayable loans as well as access to relevant support services to eligible renters in the Central Okanagan (Kelowna, West Kelowna, Lake Country and Peachland).

    To learn more about the Central Okanagan Rent Bank, visit https://www.cmhakelowna.com/programs-supports/foundry-kelowna
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    4 mins
  • Episode 10: Housing First & Complex Care

    Episode 10: Housing First & Complex Care
    Mar 26 2025
    In Episode 10: Why Supportive Housing Matters of A Way Forward Podcast | Presented by Beem Credit Union, hosts Jessica Samuels and CMHA Kelowna CEO Mike Gawiuk to discuss the critical role of supportive housing in addressing homelessness and mental health. They delve into key topics such as Housing First, complex care, and the broader systemic issues impacting affordable housing in Canada.Key Topics Discussed:1. Understanding Supportive HousingThe difference between Housing First and complex care.Why supportive housing is a crucial component in addressing homelessness.The role of wraparound services in housing stability.2. Housing as a Social Determinant of HealthHow access to safe, stable housing impacts mental and physical health.The historical recognition of housing as a human right (e.g., UN declaration, Canadian Housing Strategy Act).The significance of federal funding through the Reaching Home initiative.3. The Evolution of Housing FirstOrigins of Housing First: Developed by Sam Tsemberis and the Pathways to Housing model in New York City.The At Home/Chez Soi study in Canada and its impact on policy.Challenges in implementing Housing First effectively, including the need for adequate funding and comprehensive support services.4. Complex Care and Its Role in Supportive HousingThe introduction of complex care by the BC government.Differences between Housing First and complex care, particularly in levels of autonomy and service provision.How complex care supports individuals with high needs, including mental health, substance use, and brain injuries.5. Addressing Misconceptions and Policy ChallengesWhy Housing First has received criticism and how misinterpretations of the model have affected its implementation.The need for a multi-faceted approach ("silver buckshot" rather than a "silver bullet").How systemic issues like housing affordability and the toxic drug crisis impact supportive housing efforts.Key Takeaways:Supportive housing is more than just shelter; it includes necessary wraparound services to ensure stability.Housing First works when implemented correctly, but requires proper funding and comprehensive support.Complex care provides a higher level of support for individuals with severe needs but operates differently from Housing First.There is no single solution to homelessness; a combination of strategies is necessary to address diverse needs.**Resources**Housing – a SDoHhttps://www.cpha.ca/what-are-social-determinants-healthhttps://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/housing-and-health#key-factorsHousing Strategy / Reaching Homehttps://housing-infrastructure.canada.ca/housing-logement/ptch-csd/index-eng.htmlhttps://housing-infrastructure.canada.ca/homelessness-sans-abri/index-eng.htmlHousing First – history and practical applicationhttps://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-36092852https://www.journeyhome.ca/stories/solving-homelessness-it-just-makes-sense/https://homelesshub.ca/collection/programs-that-work/housing-first/https://housing-infrastructure.canada.ca/homelessness-sans-abri/resources-ressources/housing-first-logement-abord-eng.htmlhttps://homelesshub.ca/collection/programs-that-work/housing-first-for-youth/Is Housing First Working?https://canadiandimension.com/articles/view/why-housing-first-failed-in-canadahttps://ciceroinstitute.org/research/housing-first-is-a-failure/https://endhomelessness.org/blog/the-truth-about-housing-first/https://www.city-journal.org/article/states-say-no-to-housing-firstComplex Carehttps://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/managing-your-health/mental-health-substance-use/complex-care-housinghttps://www.kelowna.ca/our-community/social-wellness/complex-careSupportive Housing – here to stay? https://globalnews.ca/news/8824827/homelessness-kelowna/https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2024/01/why-its-so-hard-to-end-homelessness-in-america/https://caeh.ca/six-measures-the-federal-government-can-introduce-in-budget-2024-to-fix-the-housing-crisis-and-solve-homelessness/Thank you for tuning in to A Way Forward Podcast! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and share it with others who may benefit. Stay tuned for more conversations on mental health in future episodes.Follow CMHA Kelowna:Website: CMHA KelownaInstagram: @cmhakelownaFacebook: CMHA KelownaA Way Forward Podcast is proudly presented by Beem Credit Union. BlueShore Financial, GFCU Savings, Gulf & Fraser, Interior Savings, and North Peace Savings are trade names of Beem Credit Union
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    34 mins
  • Episode 9: Exploring Counselling

    Episode 9: Exploring Counselling
    Mar 12 2025
    Welcome to Episode 9: Exploring Counselling of A Way Forward Podcast | Presented by Beem Credit Union. In this episode of A Way Forward, Jessica Samuels and CMHA Kelowna CEO Mike Gawliuk dive into the topic of counselling. They discuss when it might be time to seek counselling, what to look for in a counselor, and share helpful resources for those considering counselling. With personal insights and professional expertise, they explore the value of therapy as a tool for well-being.Key Discussion Points:Personal Journeys with CounsellingBoth Jessica and Mike share their personal experiences with seeking therapy.The importance of recognizing when to seek help.Recognizing When to Seek CounsellingCommon reasons for accessing therapy (e.g., life transitions, grief, stress, or simply feeling “off”).The misconception that counselling is only for crisis situations.The benefits of early intervention and preventative mental health care.Types of Mental Health Professionals & Their RolesPsychiatrists: Medical doctors specializing in mental health; can prescribe medication.Psychologists: PhD-trained professionals focusing on therapy and mental health assessments.Counsellors: Professionals with various designations, all trained to provide mental health support.How to Choose a CounsellorThe importance of finding the right fit.Questions to ask a potential therapist (e.g., experience, specialties, approach to therapy).Understanding different types of counselling credentials in British Columbia.Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) & Other Therapeutic ApproachesOverview of CBT: A structured, short-term therapy focused on thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.The benefits and limitations of CBT.Other therapy types, such as EMDR and somatic experiencing, for trauma-focused work.The importance of selecting the right therapy approach based on individual needs.Preparing for Your First Counselling SessionUnderstanding what to expect in the first session.Tips on how to articulate your concerns and goals.Emphasizing that clients have control over their therapy journey.Key Takeaways:Counselling can be beneficial for a wide range of mental health concerns—not just crises.There are different types of mental health professionals, and finding the right one is crucial.CBT is a widely used therapy but may not be the best fit for everyone.Individuals have control over their mental health journey and can explore different approaches.**Resources Mentioned:When to get helphttps://www.talkspace.com/blog/do-i-need-therapy/https://ancorawellness.com/you-dont-need-crisis-to-see-counselor/https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/what-mentally-strong-people-dont-do/202009/7-signs-you-should-talk-therapist What is CBT https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments/talking-therapies-and-counselling/cognitive-behavioural-therapy-cbt/overview/#:~:text=CBT%20aims%20to%20help%20you,on%20issues%20from%20your%20past.https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/cognitive-behavioural-therapy#:~:text=CBT%20is%20a%20structured%2C%20time,reactions%20that%20cause%20them%20difficulty. Advantages / Disadvantages of CBThttps://www.thecbtclinic.com/pros-cons-of-cbt-therapy/https://mindvoyage.in/why-cbt-doesnt-work-with-trauma/https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/what-therapy-is-and-isnt/202203/cbt-may-be-mistaken-about-mental-illnesshttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3673298/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3584580/How to prepare for therapyhttps://www.sunlife.ca/en/tools-and-resources/health-and-wellness/mental-wellness/what-you-need-to-know-before-you-see-a-therapist/https://taylorcounselinggroup.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-your-first-therapy-session Is my therapist right for me?https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/supersurvivors/201710/five-questions-decide-if-therapist-is-right-youhttps://www.verywellmind.com/7-signs-a-therapist-is-not-the-right-fit-6374190Thank you for tuning in to A Way Forward Podcast! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and share it with others who may benefit. Stay tuned for more conversations on mental health in future episodes.Follow CMHA Kelowna:Website: CMHA KelownaInstagram: @cmhakelownaFacebook: CMHA KelownaA Way Forward Podcast is proudly presented by Beem Credit Union. BlueShore Financial, GFCU Savings, Gulf & Fraser, Interior Savings, and North Peace Savings are trade names of Beem Credit Union
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    45 mins
  • Episode 8: Mental Health in Heavy Times

    Episode 8: Mental Health in Heavy Times
    Feb 26 2025
    Welcome to Season 2 of A Way Forward, presented by Beem Credit Union. In this episode, hosts Jessica Samuels and CMHA Kelowna CEO Mike Gawliuk discuss strategies for managing mental health during turbulent times. With a 24-hour news cycle, social media, and ongoing global events, many people feel overwhelmed, anxious, and uncertain. Jessica and Mike explore how our bodies react to stress and share practical tips for maintaining mental well-being in the face of ongoing uncertainty.Key Discussion Points:1. How Are We Coping in a Heavy World?Mike and Jessica discuss their own experiences with stress and uncertainty.Acknowledging the collective fatigue from ongoing global and local crises.The importance of checking in with ourselves and recognizing signs of distress.2. The Impact of Constant Information IntakeThe human brain seeks information to create a sense of control, but too much exposure can be harmful.The physiological response to stress: fight-or-flight activation, increased adrenaline, and cortisol production.The concept of doomscrolling and how it can negatively reinforce anxiety and stress.The double-edged sword of seeking certainty through news consumption.3. Managing Information Intake for Mental Well-BeingSetting boundaries around news consumption: limiting screen time, turning off background news, and curating information sources.The benefits of reading news instead of watching video reports to reduce emotional impact.Establishing personal limits on conversations about distressing topics.Seeking alternative sources of joy and relaxation, such as nature, mindfulness, and exercise.4. Recognizing When Stress Becomes Too MuchHow to identify when normal stress levels turn into something more serious.Signs to watch for: prolonged changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and increased irritability.The importance of self-awareness and seeking support when needed.5. Practical Steps for Mental Health ManagementSetting boundaries with news consumption: opting for daily email digests instead of real-time updates.Engaging in mindfulness and physical activities to reduce stress levels.Seeking social support and setting personal boundaries in conversations.Understanding when professional help might be necessary and how to access it.Key Takeaways:It’s normal to feel overwhelmed by current events, but we can take control of how we engage with information.The physiological impact of chronic stress underscores the need for proactive mental health management.Simple adjustments—such as limiting news intake, practicing mindfulness, and recognizing stress signals—can significantly improve mental well-being.Seeking professional support is always an option if stress becomes overwhelming.**Resources Mentioned:Impacts of exposure to negative informationhttps://changemh.org/resources/news-consumption-and-your-mental-health/#:~:text=Exposure%20to%20negative%20events%20can,trigger%20a%20prolonged%20stress%20response.https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/mental-health/how-the-news-rewires-your-brain/https://growtherapy.com/blog/is-news-bad-for-mental-health/Fight or Flight Responsehttps://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-the-fight-or-flight-response-2795194https://hr.jhu.edu/wp-content/uploads/JHEAP_Negative-News-Coverage-and-Mental-Health.pdfManaging News Consumptionhttps://insidepsychotherapynyc.com/2024/07/16/navigating-anxiety-the-case-for-lowering-your-news-consumption-during-election-season/https://growtherapy.com/blog/is-news-bad-for-mental-health/https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/emotional-health/Ways-to-Cope-With-the-Newshttps://www.calm.com/blog/news-anxietyThank you for tuning in to A Way Forward Podcast! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and share it with others who may benefit. Stay tuned for more conversations on mental health in future episodes.Follow CMHA Kelowna:Website: CMHA KelownaInstagram: @cmhakelownaFacebook: CMHA KelownaA Way Forward Podcast is proudly presented by Beem Credit Union. BlueShore Financial, GFCU Savings, Gulf & Fraser, Interior Savings, and North Peace Savings are trade names of Beem Credit Union
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    24 mins
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