A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health

De: CMHA Kelowna and Jessica Samuels
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  • Resumen

  • A Way Forward podcast, presented by Beem Credit Union, examines the challenges that can wear down our individual and collective mental health. Host Jessica Samuels focusses on the stressors, the core issues and contributing factors, and the approaches and practices that can help address these issues. Listeners will leave feeling they have the information and tools to better manager their well-being and able to find...a way forward.
    © 2025 CMHA Kelowna and Jessica Samuels
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Ciencias Sociales Hygiene & Healthy Living Psicología Psicología y Salud Mental
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Episodios
  • 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 m
  • 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 m
  • Episode 7: Loneliness

    Episode 7: Loneliness
    Dec 18 2024
    In Episode 7 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels sits down with CMHA Kelowna CEO, Mike Gawliuk to dive into the topic of loneliness—what it truly means, how it impacts us, and strategies to address it. They explore how loneliness isn’t just about being alone but can also occur within social groups where people feel disconnected. They also discuss its severe physical and mental health consequences, such as heightened risk of heart problems, depression, and even a shortened lifespan.The episode touches on loneliness in various contexts, including among seniors, Indigenous and LGBTQ+ populations, and the workplace. They also tackle the role of technology in fostering a false sense of connection and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our social lives. Mike emphasizes the importance of addressing loneliness as a societal issue and offers practical solutions, from building real-world connections to organizational strategies for fostering a culture of connection in the workplace.Key Discussion Points:Defining Loneliness:Loneliness is more than being alone; it’s an emotional experience tied to unmet needs in relationships.People can feel lonely even when surrounded by others if they lack meaningful connections.Health Impacts:Loneliness has been equated to smoking 15 cigarettes a day in terms of its effect on health.Physical consequences include increased blood pressure, heart problems, and a shorter lifespan.Mental health risks include anxiety, depression, and a negative impact on overall well-being.Groups at Higher Risk:Indigenous seniors: Impacted by racism, poverty, and historical oppression.LGBTQ+ individuals: More likely to live alone or experience social isolation.Workplace environments: Employees may feel lonely despite being physically surrounded by colleagues.The Role of Technology:Social media and digital interactions can create a perception of connection but often lack depth.Comparisons on social media can amplify feelings of isolation and inadequacy.Loneliness and the Pandemic:COVID-19 amplified loneliness through enforced social isolation.The long-term societal impacts are still being studied.Workplace Loneliness:Returning to the office doesn’t necessarily reduce loneliness.Building a culture of connection is essential, including socialization opportunities and understanding employees’ needs.Addressing Loneliness Through Connection:Strategies for individuals:Find community through shared interests or volunteering.Reconnect with family and friends beyond digital interactions.Strategies for organizations:Measure loneliness through surveys to identify and address gaps.Foster a culture of connection with meaningful social activities.Navigating Grief-Related Loneliness:Avoid self-imposed expectations about how grief should look.Accept support, engage in activities, and avoid prolonged isolation.Consider professional counseling for additional support.Actionable Takeaways:For Individuals: Build connections through community activities, shared interests, or volunteering. Avoid relying solely on digital interactions for connection.For Organizations: Prioritize creating a workplace culture of connection and measure loneliness among employees to tailor interventions.For All: Recognize loneliness as a significant health issue and take proactive steps to support those around you.**Resources**https://bc.cmha.ca/documents/coping-with-loneliness/https://www.cdc.gov/social-connectedness/improving/index.htmlhttps://www.cdc.gov/social-connectedness/promoting/index.htmlhttps://www.campaigntoendloneliness.org/marginalization-and-loneliness-among-sexual-minorities-how-are-they-linked/https://hbr.org/2024/11/were-still-lonely-at-workhttps://www.hrrv.org/blog/loneliness-griefs-unintended-guest/https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-happens-in-your-body-when-youre-lonely**General Mental Health Resources:**If you or someone you know is struggling, CMHA Kelowna's Find Help Now page has a list of emergency and non-emergency resources for individuals of any age. CMHA Kelowna - Find Help Now
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    25 m

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