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What is Abuse and Domestic Violence?
Abuse is behaviour used to intimidate, isolate, dominate or control another person. It may be a pattern of behaviour or it may be a single incident. Abusive behaviour might involve acts or words or even neglect.
Abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, psychological or financial:
Physical abuse is when someone hurts you physically in any way. It includes hitting, kicking, slapping, pinching, cutting, stabbing, and shooting. All of these examples are assault, which is a crime in Canada and the United States.
Sexual touching or sexual activity is abuse if you do not consent or if ...
David's Story
Up until this school year, David was a regular teen who goes to school and hanging out with his friends. Recently, he's been moody and irritable all the time. His grades have been dropping, and his parents are certain that he's come home intoxicated or high at least a few times. His parents wonder about drug problems, but they just don't know what to do. David's been so irritable and withdrawn that everyone in the family feels like they're walking on eggshells....
What are Alcohol and Substance Use Problems?
Many children and youth have tried drugs and alcohol. Surveys have reported that by the end of high ...
Introduction
Many people who drink moderately put themselves and others at risk of alcohol-related harms. These people often believe that only “alcoholics,” people who are dependent on alcohol, cause car accidents or bar brawls. They believe that because they are not dependent themselves, they can drink freely without worrying about the consequences. But the truth is that moderate drinkers cause as much damage as heavy drinkers.
Many moderate drinkers—particularly those who sometimes drink to the point of intoxication—walk a fine line between living normal, productive lives and living recklessly, wearing down the faith ...
Does any of this sound like you?
Traffic is terrible today! It's making me very IRRITATED.
My tax return is so complicated. It's making me very FRUSTRATED.
I can't believe my mother would say something like that
I'm really ANNOYED that my neighbour's garbage keeps getting strewn all over the alley!
That driver just cut me off. I'm really IRATE about it!
I'm so ANGRY!
Read on to find out if you have a problem with managing your anger and what to do about it.
Anger and Positive Change
ANGER is an emotion that tells us someone or something has interfered with our goals, ...
Do I Have an Anxiety Disorder?
Do you find that that many of the following apply to you...
I am often startled by the smallest thing
I worry that something terrible will happen to me or others
I am easily irritable
I get sudden fears of dying or doing something out of control
I often worry that something has not been done correctly even though I know I completed the task properly
I am extremely worried about disease (e.g. germs, infections, dirt, dust, contaminates, cleanliness)
I need constant reassurance
I often find myself doing things repeatedly (e.g. hand washing, showering, tooth ...
Does Your Child Have..
Does your child have any of the following:
Gets fearful or worried about leaving the home, e.g. school or activities?
Require a lot of reassurance to calm down?
Fears that are so extreme, that it gets in the way of life?
Introduction
Dylan is afraid of the dark. Tricia hates to eat in front of other people. Eric becomes sick to his stomach and throws up if he has to speak aloud in class.
Life is stressful. It is normal to have fears and worries. Being worried about things can help us prepare for potential dangers. E.g. being worried about failing a test ...
Attention Deficit Disorders (ADD/ADHD) in Children and Youth: Information for Parents and Caregivers
What is Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
Everyone has trouble paying attention from time to time, especially during activities that are boring or not enjoyable. But for children and youth with ADHD/ADD, the problems with paying attention and getting distracted are so severe that youth can have problems with school, work and relationships.
There are 3 main types of ADHD:
1. Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
This is the most common type, causing troubles with attention and hyperactivity. Typical symptoms of ADHD:
Attention ...
Inattentive Ivan...
Ivan is a 40-ish-year-old, who despite being smart and funny, struggles with work and relationships. When younger, despite teachers saying that "Ivan has great potential," he found school painfully boring and was relieved when he finally completed high school. He thought things would get easier once he finished school, but as an adult, he faces other challenges:
With work, it's hard to focus on the boring parts of his job. He forgets deadlines, has trouble getting tasks done. As a result, he has had troubles staying in the same field and has been through several jobs while he sees his ...
Notice Any of the Following?
Do you notice of the following in yourself (or your loved one):
Have trouble focusing on things like reading, schoolwork and tasks?
Have troubles paying attention in class?
Have problems getting homework or assignments done?
Get easily distracted?
Often lose things that you need?
Tend to act impulsively or without thinking?
If so, you might have ADD/ADHD, a brain condition that makes it hard for people to focus. If you have ADD/ADHD, there is good news! There are many things that can help you pay attention, and make life easier.
What is Attention ...
Introduction
Sam is a 10-yo who has troubles paying attention in school. He has been diagnosed with ADHD, but treatment with ADHD medications hasn’t really helped. He always needs the instructions repeated in class, and has difficulty focusing in gym class. When alone with the teacher, he tends to understand things, but has troubles with group activities. Music class is tough because he can never understand the lyrics to songs. Since this year, he has a new teacher with an accent, and has been struggling to understand him.
Mary is in her 40’s, married with three children. She had a concussion a few years ago, and now struggles to ...
"Thomas likes trains..."
Thomas is a 10-year-old boy who has always been really interested in trains. He knows so much about trains that he can go on and on with his vast, encyclopedic knowledge. If you wanted to know the train schedule at the local train station, he could tell you. Schoolwork has never been a concern and he has always done well in school with little effort.
Unfortunately, when it comes to anything involving people, he has a lot more difficulties. He just can't seem to relate to others, and has no friends. He doesn't seem to get social cues. He'll talk endlessly about trains without realizing that others are ...
Three Stories
Mohamed is a 4-yo who parents always sensed was different. He seemed more interested in objects than people. They tried putting him into a home daycare, but he was aggressive with the other kids and was thus unable to return. The daycare he attends reports that he is sometimes aggressive toward other children, and his parents are concerned because he only uses 3-4 words to communicate.
Thomas is a 10-yo boy who has always been into science and everything mechanical. He’ll take apart anything mechanical and is like an encyclopaedia when it comes to all things technical. On the other hand, he has trouble connecting with other kids his ...
Introduction
Are you a parent or guardian? Does your child find it challenging when summer is over and they have to go back to school? If so, here are some tips that may help your kids (and you) make an easier transition back to school.
While some children adapt easily to the start of a new school year, other kids might have a harder time adjusting. It’s important to remember that every child is different. Some children will respond well to the strategies outlined in this pamphlet, while others might need more intensive support from their primary care provider.
Tips for parents
In May / June before school ends
If your child has an ...
Definition of bedwetting
Because young children are not capable of staying dry through the night, a child is not considered to have problems with bedwetting until at least age 5.
Children are considered to have bedwetting if:
A child aged 5-6 that has two or more bedwetting episodes per month
A child aged 7 and above that has one or more bedwetting episodes per month
Bedwetting is very common in children who are going through toilet training.
How common is bedwetting?
At age 5, 15-25% of children wet the bed
At age 6, 15-30% still have at least one episode of bedwetting a ...
Introduction
Do you have problems with anxiety, depression or sleep problems? Interested in trying a musical intervention?
If so, then consider bilateral music.
Music and the Brain
Music exists in all human cultures. Modern research confirms that music has powerful effects on the nervous system.
Listening to music is a popular pastime for many people. Many people also find music helpful as a coping strategy. In music therapy, a therapist uses music to help people with various issues.
Music stimulates many areas in the brain, such as the hippocampus, amygdala, nucleus accumbens and the mesolimbic dopamine system. Studies show that in people ...
Introduction
Ever since his mid 20's, a normally shy man gets high energy periods lasting up to several days where he doesn't need to sleep, and where he impulsively goes on spending sprees that put him into severe debt. These high periods are often followed by periods of severe low mood and depression, even to the point where he has thoughts of suicide. What's going on here? Is it normal mood swings, or could it be something else?
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Everyone gets mood swings whereby sometimes our mood and energy is up, and where sometimes our mood and energy is down. But if you have mood swings so severe that it ...
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
All of us have changes and swings in our mood which are normal. There are times when our mood is up, and we have more energy and excitement about things. There are other times when our moods are down, and we have less energy.
However, people with bipolar disorder have periods of extreme mood change that cause serious problems in their lives.
In the classic form of bipolar, people have episodes of depression and of mania, when their mood, energy, thinking and behaviour gets stuck for a period of time at a very low or a very high level. Hence the term, "bipolar", ...
Introduction
J. is a 15-yo teen who believes his hair is "all wrong" despite the beliefs of his friends and family who see none of these 'defects'. But now it's to the point where he refuses to go to school unless he combs his hair for hours.
M. is a 45-yo woman. Her ability to focus on details makes her a gifted and accomplished musician and music teacher. Unfortunately, she has been increasingly obsessed with signs of ageing which she thinks make her nose now appear much bigger. Despite the reassurance of family members, she is so concerned about her appearance that she has been reducing her social contacts to a greater and ...
Introduction
All humans are social, and one of our deepest needs is to attach, or feel connected to others. In fact, we can’t survive without others. When we’re young, our most important attachments are to parents and adult caregivers. As we get older, our attachments change to include friends and peers. In adulthood, it changes to focus on romantic partners.
Because one of our deepest needs is to attach, it is natural then, that one of our deepest fears is lack of attachment, or rejection, or abandonment.
Positives of being sensitive
Being sensitive may mean they can be very thoughtful and conscientious of other's feelings, which ...
Introduction
All humans are social, and one of our deepest needs is to attach, or feel connected to others. In fact, we can’t survive without others. When we’re young, our most important attachments are to parents and adult caregivers. As we get older, our attachments change to include friends and peers. In adulthood, it changes to focus on romantic partners.
Because one of our deepest needs is to attach, it is natural then, that one of our deepest fears is lack of attachment, or rejection, or abandonment.
Positives of being sensitive
Being sensitive may mean they can be very thoughtful and conscientious of other's feelings, which ...
J’s Story
J has had a tough life. Her parents fought constantly, and her father left when she was young. Growing up, she was bullied in school. She tried talking about her problems, but despite seeing many therapists, it never seemed to help. Now in her 30’s, she had another crisis with a breakup of a relationship, and saw another counsellor. Instead of talk therapy however, this counsellor is suggesting she try “brainspotting.”
J. isn’t sure if she should try it or not…
Quote
“Where you look affects how you feel…” -- David Grand
What is Brainspotting Therapy?
Brainspotting Therapy (BSP) is a brain-body based therapy ...
What is Bullying?
Bullying is a form of aggression in which one individual is exposed to deliberately harmful actions by a more aggressive person. Bullying can be physical (e.g., hitting, pushing, tripping), verbal (e.g., name-calling, insults, put-downs), social (e.g., social isolation, rumours) or cyber (e.g., threats or insults spread through the internet or cell phone).
It is also possible for the same child to be both a bully and a victim. There are also "provocative victims" (a term coined by Olweus, 2001) who display negative behaviours that annoy bullies and lead them to take action.
School bullies ...
Case 1
Dave is a 17-year-old with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). He has never liked the fact that his parents set limits on his video games, and as a result, says he will move out so that “then no one will tell me what to do.” Unfortunately, he is not yet capable of managing money nor does he have the skills necessary to live on his own. When younger, he would occasionally run away and police would bring him back. Since he is aged 17 now, the police have told his parents that they will no longer be able to bring him back unless they have a Power of Attorney for him.
What should parents ...
What is Suicide?
Suicide is the act of ending one's life. It is unfortunate, but modern society tends to be stressful and disconnecting, and as a result, some children and youth may think about ending their lives. People may suicidal when they feel disconnected from people or activities that give a sense of belonging, purpose, hope and meaning.
Stresses can contribute, such as:
School stress such as problems with friends, schoolwork, teachers, bullies.Home stress, such as conflict or disagreements with family members. Work stresses such as problems with co-workers, bosses, workload.Modern society, with the way that ...
Dave’s Story
Dave is a 10-yo boy who has started to hear voices. He has always been somewhat quiet, and not been that talkative about his thoughts and feelings. The voices appear triggered when he is under more stress, e.g. conflicts with classmates or not understanding work at school. When he is angry, the voices are angry. When he is feeling good, the voices are nice…
How Common are Voices?
Studies show that voices are quite common, though the exact numbers vary depending on the study:
At a single point in time
About 2-3% of the general population hears voices (Tien, 1991) In children, a study showed that 8% of children reported hearing ...
Many youth will have thoughts of suicide. These thoughts can range from simply wishing for the pain to end, all the way to taking steps to seriously harming themselves. People who have thoughts of suicide often struggle with distress for a long time. They consider death as one option for stopping their pain. Others might have a sudden urge when they live a moment they find difficult to accept.
When we asked youth about suicide:
Guys told us...
1 out of every 7 or 8 guys said they had thoughts of suicide in the past;
About 1 in every 15 guys said they had current thoughts ...
D’s Story, Part 1
D. is a young adult living at home with his parents. When he was younger, he could go to bed by 9 PM and wake up for 6 AM. But ever since becoming a teenager, when 9 PM comes around, he is simply not tired and seems to get a “second wind. Various strategies have been tried, including putting away all electronics by 8 PM and trying calming activities before bedtime. He finally falls asleep at 1 AM. Unfortunately, then he struggles to get up at 8 AM for school, even with multiple alarms and parents' efforts to wake up. He goes to school exhausted, his marks have dropped significantly this school ...
What Is It?
Delirium is a sudden change in how a person thinks or acts.
Delirium can occur in all ages, though the elderly and the very young, are at the highest risk.
It can happen to anyone, however most commonly happens to patients who are already in hospital.
Signs of Delirium
The first sign of delirium is that you notice that your loved one appears to act differently and not as you’d expect. Caregivers often say, “He is not himself… This is not like my child at all….”
Classic signs include:
Confusion and disorientation, such as:Getting confused about the time or dateGetting confused about who he or she is, not recognizing ...
Sally's Story
"I was just going out for a walk..."
Sally is a 75-yo widow, active in her community, with an outgoing personality and a great sense of humor. She lives alone, but her daughter lives in town, and checks in on her occasionally. Over the last few months however, she has become noticeably more forgetful, to the where she has gone for walks while leaving the stove on. Last week, she went out for her usual morning walk, but got lost. Luckily, one of the neighbours that was driving by happened to recognize her, and brought her home.
Is this normal aging? Or is it something else?
What is ...
What is Depression?
Everyone has times when they feel the ‘blues' or when they get sad from time to time. Depression, on the other hand, is a sadness so severe that it can cause:
Difficulties functioning at home, work or school
Changes in sleep, energy, appetite and concentration,
Feelings such as sadness, anxiety, irritability or anger,
Low self-esteem or feelings of hopelessness. When extremely severe, people who are depressed may have thoughts of hurting themselves.
How Common is Depression?
Depression is a common condition that can affect anyone at any age. In any given year, it is estimated that it ...
What is Depression?
It is normal for children and youth to feel sad from time to time. But this sadness doesn’t stop them from going on with their everyday activities. And it goes away on its own. Depression, on the other hand, is a sadness so severe that it interferes with everyday life.
Typical symptoms of depression (aka clinical depression, or major depressive disorder) are:
Feeling sad, worried, irritable or angry.
Lack of enjoyment in life, or troubles enjoying anything
Feeling hopeless and worthless, Troubles coping with everyday activities at home, school, or work
Problems ...
Amanda's Story
I used to be happy go lucky when I was younger. But when I got to be a teenager, things started to get really stressful.
My parents split up.
I got into a fight with some friends on social media.
I felt so alone. I felt like nobody cared about me. I got realy depressed, and at times, I felt life wasn't worth living.
But then I saw a picture of myself with my parents when I was younger -- it reminded me how happy I used to be. I decided to give my mom a chance -- so I told her what was happening and how I was feeling...
What is Depression?
It is normal to feel sad from time to ...
Max's Story
Max has always been clumsy. But it seems that as he gets older, it's not something he is growing out of, and starting to really cause noticeable problems. He is clumsy and spills things at home all the time, leading family members to get upset at him. He is always walking or falling on something leading to frequent bumps and bruises. At school, he struggles to learn how to write. He struggles with gym class, and at recess, wishes he could play with the other kids but he is so clumsy that no one wants to play with him.
Any of the Following?
Does your child seem excessively clumsy, to the point that it causes problems at home, school or ...
What is DBT?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a type of therapy developed to help people regulate their emotions. It was first developed for those with a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder, but it turns out that DBT is helpful for a wide range of conditions.
In DBT, people how to handle intense emotions through various skills such as:
Mindfulness; Interpersonal effectiveness; Distress tolerance; Emotional regulation.
Key DBT Skills
Mindfulness
People can become “stuck” in their intense and distressing emotions, “I feel terrible; I’m such a bad person for feeling this way.”
Mindfulness meditation can help a ...
David’s Story
Dave is a 10-yo youth who has always had a spirited temperament. He is always easily irritated and easily triggered to have tantrums, on a daily basis, several times a day. Triggers for anger include making any sort of requests that take him away from a preferred activity (e.g. if parents ask him to get off the TV and come for dinner), or if he has a wish and parents say no (e.g. he wants to have another cookie and parents say no.) As he is getting older, his tantrums are harder to manage as he gets bigger. He has kicked holes in the walls and broken his door.
Parents have tried various parenting strategies (including ...
Mary's Story
Mary is 30-years old. She lives on her own, and does not have any contact with her family. She has no memory of her childhood at all. She is a gentle person, and works in an office. Sometimes she meets people who say that they know her, however she has no recollection of having met them. What is going on with Mary?
Could I have Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)?
Do you notice any of the following?
A feeling that your sense of self has two or more distinct parts, and that each of those parts has its own behaviours, moods, thoughts, memories, and way of understanding the world
That sometimes you don’t ...
Case: "We need med refills but don't have a family doctor!"
J. is a parent with a 10-yo child who takes prescription medications. Unfortunately, their family doctor unexpectedly retired and closed down the practice. Now they need medication refills, and they simply don’t know what to do.
Introduction
It is always best to have a regular primary care provider, that one can see for health issues and renew medications if necessary. Unfortunately, with the current healthcare shortages, sometimes people can find themselves “orphaned” or without a primary care provider. Fortunately, there are some strategies that may be helpful until ...
Introduction
Interestingly, most (if not all) human societies have societal practices such as drumming, singing or dancing to a beat.
In indigenous society, drums are sacred, representing the heartbeat of people, animals and Mother Earth herself.
Many of us may still be able to remember how we sang, dance or clapped in preschool or kindergarten.
Modern understanding of neuroscience is now confirming what many people intuitively know. That there are brain benefits from many of these traditional activities.
Singing, dancing and clapping in synchrony with others is not simply fun. Such rhythmic movement activities in preschool can support the ...
Introduction
Everyone has times when they don't eat normally; sometimes we eat less, sometimes we eat more. But when a person has such extremes of eating that it causes problems, it may be an eating disorder.
These extremes may range from purposely starving oneself and trying to not eat in order to lose weight, to the opposite extreme of binging or overeating. At either extreme, there are usually feelings of extreme distress or concern about body weight or shape.
A person with an eating disorder may have started out just eating smaller or larger amounts of food than usual, but at some point, the urge to eat ...
What are Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders are a group of potentially fatal conditions where people experience severe problems with their eating, which affect them physically and emotionally.
Things may start off as a diet, where your child is doing something to try and feel better about him or herself. From there, however, it can quickly escalate into a dangerous, life threatening eating disorder.
On the outside, you may notice the visible signs of an eating disorder in your child, such as not eating, binge-eating on food, vomiting, or being obsessed with how his or her body looks. On the inside, your ...
What are eating disorders (EDs)?
Eating disorders are different types of unhealthy eating patterns. Statistics tell us that EDs happen more often in girls and young women, but we're learning that more and more boys and men experience EDs too. For the most part, they involve eating either too much or too little. Other behaviours can also come along with disordered eating, like exercising too much, obsessing about food, throwing up, or taking laxatives to get rid of food you've eaten.
What types of eating disorders are there?
The most common types are:
1. Anorexia Nervosa
Also known as Anorexia. ...
Introduction
Your child was not born knowing how to control feelings or calm down and needs to learn this from you. You are your child’s first and most important teacher. A loving relationship with your child is the best way you can help them learn to deal with difficult feelings.
Unpleasant Feelings that Your Child May Have
Anger
Anger is a common feeling, and temper tantrums are normal in young children. They are your child’s way of letting you know that they feel angry, upset or frustrated. Try to find out what is bothering your child and respond differently depending on what is wrong.
If your child is ...
What is Soiling (aka. Encopresis)?
Soiling (also known as encopresis) is when a toilet-trained child has bowel movements in places other than the toilet (for example, in their underwear or while sleeping) when they lose bowel control. Constipation is by far the most common cause of encopresis in children.
How Does Soiling (Encopresis) Happen?
Children often put off going for a bowel movement or resist the urge to poop when they are stressed about toilet training or simply busy playing. Over time, this can lead to stool becoming hard, dry, and difficult to pass. By this point, constipation makes bowel movements hurt, and your child will ...
J's Story
J. is a twenty-something who struggles with a fear of vomiting. She remembers the day it started in Gr. 9. She had been sick with the flu and ended up throwing up in class. Since then, her fears of vomiting have been getting gradually worse. She is able to go to her work but other than that, she is not able to leave home. She wishes so badly that she could just go out like others…
What is the Fear of Vomiting (Emetophobia)?
It is normal to dislike the thought of vomiting and in fact, having just enough fear of vomiting can be helpful.
It encourages one to 1) stay away from people who may be sick, and 2) take measures to avoid ...
About the Disorder
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) is an umbrella term that describes a wide range of effects that can occur in a child whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. Prenatal alcohol exposure can cause significant brain damage. The effects of FASD typically include physical, mental, and learning disabilities as well as behavioral deficits and problems with socialization.
FASD includes the following categories:
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)—This is indicated by a pattern of neurological, behavioral, and cognitive deficits along with specific facial features.
Alcohol-related ...
Introduction
Children and youth with special needs have medical, emotional, developmental, mental or behavioural problems that require ongoing help and support.
The federal government has various tax deductions, credits and benefits available to help families and caregivers of children and youth with special needs.
In addition, each province has a number of provincial programs as well.
Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
If you have a child with special needs, the Disability Tax Credit is a non-refundable tax credit that helps people with disabilities or their supporting persons reduce the amount of income ...
Tips for All Canadians
Meet with a Financial Advisor.
Finances are complicated at the best of times, let alone if you have a special needs child. Poor financial planning can be disastrous. Consider seeking a consultation with a financial advisor, who can help look at your specific financial situation, and come up with a financial plan that makes sense for your family. There are different types of professionals who claim to provide financial help. It is best to find a financial planner that you pay directly yourself, as opposed to one that may be biased (e.g. such as receiving commissions from selling you products that you may not need). How to find ...
What are Food Cravings?
Human beings need to eat in order to live, and as a result, our body signals through cravings and urges that we need to eat. For most of human history, humans spent most of their days moving outside, and would expend large amounts of energy in hunting and gathering. Our traditional diet was high in natural grains, vegetables, fruits and lower amounts of meat.
Food cravings helped hunter gatherers survive:
Cravings for sweet foods were a signal that a ripe fruit was ready to be eaten; Cravings for salty foods helped ensure we had enough salt in our diet; for most of human history, salt was extremely hard to find and ...
Introduction
For many people, the sex we are born with (designated at birth) is a good match for how we see ourselves on the inside. But for some, the sex and gender identity don’t match at all. This could mean that:
A child who is born male at birth, feels like a girl on the inside (i.e. gender assigned male, trans female).
A child who is born female at birth, feels like a boy on the inside (i.e. gender assigned female, trans male).
A child or youth does not identify completely as either a boy or a girl.
Gender
While some people see gender as ‘binary’ (either you’re male or female), others see ...
What is Grief?
Grief is the normal response of sadness and other feelings that come from losing someone close to you.
Feeling grief is a natural part of life, because at some point, we will all face the loss of a loved one.
Bereavement is the period after a loss during which a person experiences grief and is in mourning.
What is Normal Grief?
After the death or loss of a loved one, you may feel all sorts of feelings such as feeling:
Sad
Anxious, worried or scared
Empty and numb
Angry
You may find yourself having physical reactions such as:
Problems ...
Introduction
Grounding is a type of coping strategy that “grounds” people in the present moment and is a form of mindfulness.
When you become overwhelmed by flashbacks or dissociation, it is as if the brain forgets where you are, and you become transported to past times when you felt unsafe. Grounding strategies help the brain refocus on the present.
There are two main types of grounding strategies:
Sensory, e.g. Using strong sensory input to bring one back to reality and the present moment (e.g. listening to loud music, biting a lemon, holding a piece of ice)Cognitive, e.g. Doing an activity requiring one’s focused ...
Introduction
Children and youth can have strong emotional reactions (or stress reactions) after a difficult experience. A traumatic event is one that causes a child or teen to react with horror, fear and distress. Events that might cause a stress reaction include:
Being in a car crash
Getting badly hurt
Witnessing violence
Nearly drowning
Seeing another person get badly hurt
How do children and youth react after traumatic events?
Everyone is different, and reactions often depend on a child’s age.
After a traumatic event, children and youth may ...
Introduction
At some point, we all face the loss or death of a loved one. This is a difficult experience for a person of any age, but is particularly hard for young people. Adults may be uncertain on how to respond to the needs of children during this time. They might be overwhelmed with their own grief or have questions about how to explain such a difficult concept in ways that children can understand. Even when adults respond the best that they can, a child may still be overwhelmed by grief issues.
This article describes how children are affected by grief and bereavement, and what family and friends can do to support a ...
Introduction
Eating disorders, now considered the third most common chronic illness among adolescent girls, are serious emotional problems that are manifested through weight and food issues. They can have life-threatening consequences. Behaviors that include dieting, bingeing, self-induced vomiting, using diet pills and laxatives are seen in more than 27% of girls aged 12 to 18 years.
Eating disorders develop in boys and girls for a lot of different reasons. Eating disorders may stem from anxiety or depression, or from feeling a loss of control due to a family situation, trauma, or other stresses. Those who tend to develop eating ...
Introduction
Bob lives in a house, but has collected so many books and newspapers that they have filled his rooms and hallways. Just last week, his wife left him due to the clutter.
Cathy has secretly kept over thirty cats in her small home. Just week, neighbours have complained and she is worried that she’ll be forced to get rid of them.
Introduction
It is normal that human beings need to acquire and use various possessions in order to survive.
Unfortunately, some people end up 1) collecting too many things, and 2) have troubles getting rid of possessions that they no longer need. When severe enough, it may be hoarding ...
Introduction
Perhaps you have always wondered whether or not your child might be gay, lesbian or bisexual. Or perhaps your child has just ‘come out of the closet', and has said that she or he is gay. (Gay, by the way, can refer to a male interested in males, but it can also mean a female interested in females.)
Typical Parent Responses
Dealing with the possibility that your child is gay, or might be gay, can be an extremely stressful time for many parents and families. Some of the possible reactions that families may have are:
Denial: "No, he can't be gay. He's had girlfriends before!" or "No, she can't ...
What is Illness Anxiety Disorder?
On one hand, it is normal to have health anxiety and concerns about one’s health from time to time. On the other hand, sometimes those concerns can become so severe that it causes problems. Illness anxiety disorder, also known as hypochondria or hypochondriasis, is an excessive concern about having or developing a serious, undiagnosed general medical disease.
At What Age Does It Start?
Health illness anxiety can start in children, but usually starts in early adulthood.
How Common Is It?
It is felt that up to 5-10% of the population may have health anxiety disorder.
Terms
Hypochondriasis: Ever since ...
What is Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health?
Everyone has mental health. Even infants and young children!
Infant and early childhood mental health (IECMH) is about an infant and young child’s ability to:
Form safe, secure relationships with adults and peers.Experience, manage and express a full range of emotions.Cope with stresses in life.
Unfortunately, mental health issues are becoming an increasing problem for many of our children.
Since 2010, mental health emergency visits at the Children ‘s Hospital of Eastern Ontario have increased by 75%One in four (26%) children in Ottawa are behind in their development as they enter school. ...
Introduction
Crying is the main way your baby can tell you what he or she needs. How you respond when your baby cries during the first year of life will teach your baby if he or she can count on you.
No one can comfort a baby ALL the time. What matters is that most of the time, you try to comfort him or her.
Three Very Important Times To Pay Attention To Your Baby's Cries
When your baby is sick
When your baby is hurt
When your baby is upset (for example, when he or she is sad, frightened or lonely)
Comforting your baby at these times does not spoil him or her. It makes your baby feel respected and ...
Introduction
It seems like life is getting more and more stressful all the time, with demands for work, school, family and home responsibilities. As a result, we often cut back on the very things that are the most important, like getting enough sleep…
Getting enough sleep is essential. Studies show that getting enough sleep is essential for maintaining proper health. Furthermore, lack of sleep can cause numerous health and related problems. It is a risk factor for mental health problems such as depression, and can also contribute to cardiovascular and other conditions. Being sleep deprived also significantly increases your risk ...
What is Interactive Metronome (IM)?
Interactive Metronome® (IM) is a therapeutic brain training program that helps people improve core, foundational brain skills such as timing, attention, impulse control, coordination and regulation. When these foundational brain skills are addressed, it can help a range of other conditions as well, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Classic Activities that Help with Brain Development
It is interesting that in most societies, there are various activities that are done with children when younger, as well as activities that are done as part of regular societal rituals.
Ask any ...
Are my children at risk of lead exposure?
Are your children:
Living in or regularly visiting a house or day care center built before 1950?
Living in or regularly visiting a house built before 1978 with peeling or chipping paint or recent (within the last 6 months), ongoing or planned renovation?
Living with or regularly visiting a sibling, housemate or playmate with lead poisoning?
Living with an adult whose job or hobby involves exposure to lead?
Living near an active lead smelter, battery recycling plant, or other industry likely to release lead?
Recent refugee, immigrant, or child adopted from outside ...
Lynn’s story
Lynn is a typical 10 year old who likes sports and hanging out with her friends. She is an average student, getting B’s in all subjects, except for math… Math has always been tough for her compared to other subjects. But this year, she’s been failing all her math classes. Even when she asks her teacher for help, she still doesn’t understand. Her dad thinks, ‘Well, I wasn’t good at math either, so that’s why she’s failing’. Her mom thinks that Lynn is being lazy and she should just ‘work harder’. Is Lynn’s trouble with math because she is lazy or because ...
D’s Story
D. is a young adult having problems with stress and anxiety. Unfortunately, she lives in a rural area, and there is no easy access to a mental health professional. She does an internet search on online help, but is overwhelmed by the number of websites that pop up. She decides to see her family physician to asks what apps she might recommend...
Apps
There is a growing number of apps for mental health but it can be challenging to know which ones are reputable, safe and effective. Only a tiny percentage are associated with credible healthcare organizations. On one hand, there are good apps that may be helpful. On the other hand, ...
What is Mental Health?
Mental health (like our physical health) is a resource for living. It allows us to learn, work, play and find enjoyment in life. It helps us through tough times.
From a child or teen’s point of view, mental health means…
I feel like I have things to live for
I feel that people care about me
I feel hopeful and good about the future
I feel in control of my life
I like myself
I’m satisfied, content or happy with life
What is Mental Illness?
People have mental health problems or mental illnesses when problems with thoughts, feelings or ...
Mental Health vs. Mental Illness
Many people talk about mental health and mental illness as if they were the same thing. But they’re not the same thing at all.
For starters, mental health is something we all have. Mental illness only affects some people. Just like physical health, there are some things that you can do to be mentally healthy and reduce your chances of developing a mental illness.
What is Mental Health?
Mental health is your brain’s ability to:
Make sense of and interact with the world around you;
Enjoy life;
Realize your personal ...
What is Mental Health?
Mental health (like our physical health) is a resource for living. It allows us to learn, work, play and find enjoyment in life. It helps us through tough times.
From a child or teen’s point of view, mental health means things such as…
I feel like I have things to live forI feel hopeful and good about the futureI like myselfI’m satisfied, content or happy with lifeI feel that people care about meI feel in control of my life
What is Mental Illness?
People have mental health problems or mental illnesses when problems with thoughts, feelings or behaviours get in the way of functioning at home, school or ...
“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo. “So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
-- J.R.R. Tolkien – The Fellowship of The Ring
Introduction
Dealing with COVID is stressful. For most of us, the measures being taken with COVID have been unprecedented in how disruptive they are to our lives, our families and our friends. On the one hand, it is understandable that anyone would feel stressed out by the current situation. On the other hand, overreacting and coping in negative ways are ...
What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness means paying attention to what’s happening right now. When you practice mindfulness, you turn your attention to your thoughts, emotions and body sensations in the present moment. While doing this, you do your best to accept what you’re experiencing without labelling it as ‘good,’ ‘bad,’ or anything else. This can help you feel calmer and cope better with stress and frustration.
Mindfulness includes ‘formal mindfulness’ such as doing meditation or yoga. Mindfulness also includes anything we do where we are focused on the present, such as going for a walk, cleaning, or having a meal. ...
What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness means paying attention to what’s happening right now. When you practice mindfulness, you turn your attention to your thoughts, emotions, body sensations and experience in the present moment. While doing this, you do your best to accept what happens, without labelling it as ‘good’, ‘bad’, or anything else. This can help you feel calmer and respond in more helpful ways.
How can I be a more mindful parent?
It’s not always easy to keep our minds in the present moment. Our attention often gets pulled away by many things. So we end up not giving our full attention to what ...
M’s Story
M. is in her teens and is so distressed by the sounds of family members eating or breathing that she can no longer tolerate meals with her family. Her family can’t understand why she can’t just have dinner like everyone else.
Is This You?
Do you get upset, irritated or very angry when you hear people:
Eating or chewing with their mouths open?Sniffling?Typing on a keyboard?Making other soft sounds that don’t seem to bother anyone else?
If so, you may have misophonia.
What is Misophonia?
Many of us have had the experience of hearing sounds that make us feel uncomfortable.
For example:
The sound of fingernails scraping ...
Does Any of the Following Apply:
Does the person have any of the following:
An interest in music?Difficulties with Emotions and self-regulation? Communication, social, cognitive, and physical skills? Troubles with stress, anxiety and depression?
If so, then read on to learn more about music therapy.
Introduction
Music is an essential part of all societies.
Most people enjoy making and/or listening to music.
Research confirms that making or listening to music has many positive benefits for health.
Studies have shown that piano training for 1-hr a week for 11-weeks can show measurable improvements in depression, anxiety and stress, as ...
What is a Safety Plan?
A safety plan can help keep you safe, if you are feeling overwhelmed and/or having thoughts of ending your life. During a time when you are feeling calm, try answering these questions that ask about triggers and stresses, and possible ways to cope, so that if you are faced with a stress later on, you will have some ideas to try out. As you learn more about what works or doesn't work, its natural that the safety plan will change and improve over time. Ask your support network (such as trusted adults, parents, relatives) to take a look at the plan, so that they can support you.
My ...
Case
Jennifer is in her 20’s and has extreme problems with sleepiness. This is extremely frustrating, because when younger, she was extremely active and athletic. Nowadays however, no matter how much sleep she gets at night, she is always exhausted. The sleepiness is so bad that she’ll fall asleep on public transit, and even while talking with friends. It is so bad that she couldn’t finish high school, and hasn’t been able to keep any job due to her fatigue and inability to wake up on time for work. She has seen doctors and been tested for hormone, vitamin deficiencies and diet issues, but no one has found anything.
Could I Have Narcolepsy? ...
Introduction
All parents want to raise happy, healthy children, but in spite of our best efforts, many children and youth struggle with physical and mental health problems in today's world.
The good news is that there is an easy way to help our children’s and teens’ physical, mental and spiritual health...
...Spontaneous, unstructured outdoor play!
Spontaneous, unstructured outdoor play is letting kids be kids outdoors, creating on their own without adult interference. It means letting kids:
Be outdoors with fresh air, sunlight and the sounds of nature.
Use their imaginations to ...
J’s Story, Part 1
J. is a young adult who wants to get the COVID vaccine, because she wants to protect her elderly parents. And she needs to be vaccinated to keep her job working with medically ill people. But she has hated needles all her long and she just doesn't know what to do...
Introduction
On one hand, getting needles for immunizations, bloodwork or injections is part of the miracle of modern medicine, which helps people live healthier and longer than in the past. This includes getting needles for the COVID vaccine, which is necessary for herd immunity to overcome the COVID pandemic.
On the other hand, it is understandable that ...
What is Neurofeedback?
Our brains consist of billions of neurons that use electricity to communicate with each other. When our synapses are firing, they create electrical activity that can be measured as “brain waves”.
In many conditions, our brain waves are disrupted and not functioning properly. Thus we can have too many of some types of brain waves or not enough of others.
Neurofeedback is a type of therapy that can help individuals to better control their brain waves, which may thus be helpful for various brain conditions.
What is the Evidence for Neurofeedback?
Evidence suggests that ...
Neil’s Story
Neil is a 3-yo boy who lives with a loving family and enjoys going to his daycare. For the past year however, he’s had “night terrors”. He goes to bed, then has a blood curdling scream in the middle of the night, which has parents quite worried.
What are Night Terrors?
Night terrors are a common sleep disorder seen in children (usually aged 3-5) that are not dangerous, and that usually get better as the child gets older.
Terms
Other names include sleep terrors or pavor nocturnus.
What Does a Night Terror Look Like?
Typically, after going to sleep, the child wakes up with eyes wide open, looks of fear and panic, and may be ...
What is a Nightmare?
A nightmare is a very distressing dream that usually wakes one up, usually causing fear and upset. Nightmares are not real, though they can feel very real.
How common are nightmares?
Most people have experienced a nightmare at some point in their life, but in most cases, they are temporary and do not persist.
However, when nightmares are severe and persist, they can cause numerous problems. They can:
Affect the person having nightmares by leading the person to feel scared, anxious or depressed, and since they can interfere with sleep, can lead to fatigue.Affect family members, especially if their loved ones frequently ...
Jane’s Story, Part 1
Jane is a 25-year-old college student. Her life is busy. She buses to school, so breakfast is usually just a cup of coffee. Lunch is often just a muffin. Because she’s hungry, she often buys snacks from a vending machine. She knows that she’s sleep deprived because she doesn’t feel rested when her alarm wakes her up in the morning. Jane has been feeling stressed, anxious and tired. She reluctantly sees her family doctor, who recommends that Jane start with some changes to her food intake.
Introduction
The bad news: Our modern, hectic lifestyle, being surrounded by unhealthy foods and other factors can make ...
Introduction
Most people have had times when certain thoughts or images get stuck in our head. Like getting a certain song stuck in your head; worrying that we forgot to turn off the stove at home.
But when such thoughts get so extreme that it gets in the way of daily life, it may be the sign of obsessive compulsive disorder...
What is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a condition where people have troubles with obsessions and/or compulsions:
Obsessions are distressing thoughts or images that won't go away, for example, worries about being dirty or ...
"He just can't stop washing..."
Tyrone is a 10-year old who enjoys hanging out with his friends and family, and is a great soccer player.
Over the past few months however, he's been much more concerned about his cleanliness. In the beginning, his parents thought it was great, because he began showering more often. But now he needs to shower several times a day and will actually get upset and angry if he can't have his shower.
In the past few weeks, he's become extremely concerned about germs to the point where he won't even touch door handles. And if he does, he has to wash his hands, and so now it's to the ...
My Story (Part 1)
I’m 15 years old and my OCD began not long after starting high school. I think like most people, I was excited and stressed at the same time. One day, after watching a TV show about germs, I became very worried about getting sick. I became obsessed by the idea that I could get contaminated by these microscopic germs. Every time I met someone, or touched a door knob or heard someone sneeze, I would worry.
I started to worry about bringing these germs back home and harming my whole family. Soon, every time I tried to leave the house, I would panic and need to go back to clean my hands and take a shower. I ...
What is an Operational Stress Injury (OSI)?
An OSI is term used to describe any persistent psychological injury resulting from operational or work-related duties in the military or police service.
What Causes OSI's?
Many situations may cause an OSI, which include:
Being involved in combat
Witnessing atrocities
Coming close to death
Being assaulted
Seeing someone killed or killing someone
Being held hostage
Natural disasters
Handling injured bodies and human remains
Canadian Forces and law enforcement personnel are regularly exposed to extreme situations beyond the experience of ...
Introduction
Coronavirus (COVID-19) has been extremely stressful for us as caregivers and parents. We have the responsibility of supporting our children and youth during this time. And we have the stress of having to manage finances and work responsibilities.
The good news is that there are many healthy strategies that we can do to support our kids, and survive as parents during this stressful time.
Looking for Basic Needs?
Do you need a food bank?
Call 211 (http://211.ca/) or Food Banks Canada (https://www.foodbankscanada.ca/utility-pages/find-a-food-bank.aspx)
Do you need shelter and housing?
Call 211 ...
Penny’s Story, Part 1
Penny has always been a bit of a worrier, but now she’s started having periods “out of the blue” where she feels suddenly anxious, along with shortness of breath, feeling sweaty. The periods are so severe, that it feels like she’s having a heart attack. Worried that she might be having a heart attack, she goes to the Emergency Department at her local hospital. Good news, she finds out it's not a panic attack. But the bad news is that she keeps on having these attacks, and just doesn’t know what to do. What advice would you give Penny?
What are Panic Attacks?
Panic attacks are periods of intense fear ...
Petra's Story
Petra is in her last year of high school. Unfortunately, it has been a stressful year -- there have been difficulties with peers, and the work has been very hard as well. Now she’s having periods out of the blue where she feels panicky and anxious for no reason. During these times, she feels her heart racing, starts sweating and has to leave the room, and ends up hiding in the bathroom until she feels better. Things are so bad that she is starting to skip classes in order to avoid having an attack…
How would you support Petra?
Introduction
Everyone gets anxious from time to time. The ...
What are PANS and PANDAS?
PANS and PANDAS are conditions where people can have sudden, dramatic onset of the following
Classic symptoms:
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Obsessions: Distressing worries, e.g. worries about being contaminated. Compulsions: Repetitive habits, e.g. having to wash repeatedly. Severely restricted food intake Losing interest in food or drink to the point of losing weight, needing reminders to eat.
Other associated symptoms may include at least 2 of the following:
Mood Anxiety, including separation anxiety; fears about food, eating or choking, or selective ...
A's Story: “She used to love being outside!”
A. is a 10-year-old girl who used to enjoy playing outdoors with friends but has become increasingly withdrawn in recent years. Her mother is concerned that her daughter appears anxious. A.’s parents’ divorce and her academic struggles have contributed to her anxiety. Instead of socializing, she spends most of her time alone in her room, immersed in digital screens for comfort. Despite her parents’ efforts, A. finds it challenging to break free from her anxiety and engage in other activities.
What advice would you give her mom?
Introduction
Bad news
As parents and caregivers, we all want ...
Do I Have PTSD?
Have you been through traumatic events (such as violence, crime, combat or abuse) in the past?
If so, then do any of the following apply to you:
As a result of that event, do you avoid being reminded of this experience by staying away from certain places, people or activities? Yes/NoDid you lose interest in activities that were once important or enjoyable? Yes/NoDid you begin to feel more isolated or distant from other people? Yes/NoDid you find it hard to have love or affection for other people? Yes/NoDid you begin to feel that there was no point in planning for the future? Yes/NoAfter this experience were you having more ...
Introduction
Ask any parent what they want for their children, and most will say that they would like their children to grow up safe and happy. Unfortunately, many children and youth end up experiencing stressful and traumatic events in their life.
Examples of trauma include:
“Acute”, single incident trauma, such as being in a car accident; being physically assaulted; experiencing a fire, flood, earthquake or other natural disasters; experiencing war, as a soldier or a civilian. “Chronic”, repeated trauma which happens over and over again, such as: child neglect, physical or sexual abuse, domestic violence; bullying ...
One Mother's Story
"After my first child was born, I started to cry all the time and feel sad. And I felt guilty because you're supposed to be happy about being a new mom and all that. So I hid all of the sadness from everyone else. The funny thing is, that I was doing such a good job at making things look good on the surface, that no one knew I was depressed. But I knew it was time to get help when I started to really resent my child."
"I saw my family doctor, who told me that I had Post-Partum Depression. We started with some counselling but after a few weeks things weren't getting any better, so I ...
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are the live bacteria found in fermented foods (such as yogurt and sauerkraut), which appear to be beneficial for health. Because probiotics are healthy for the brain, some experts also refer to them as “psychobiotics”.
How Do Probiotics Help?
The human gastrointestinal tract (GI tract) is a very complex ecosystem, with more than 1,000 bacterial species. Probiotics help in many ways:
They form a part of the healthy community of microbes (i.e. healthy microbiome) in our body; They make it harder for unhealthy bacteria to survive in our body;Reduce the production of inflammatory chemicals, such as ...
What is gambling?
Gambling involves any activity in which a person takes the chance of losing money or belongings, and when winning or losing is decided mostly by chance.
Gambling is a common activity in our society. Common forms of gambling include buying lottery tickets, playing poker with friends, or going to a casino. When done in moderation, gambling can be a fun activity. But at its extreme, gambling can cause problems such as bankruptcy, loss of relationships, and even lead people to commit suicide.
What is problem gambling?
When gambling becomes so excessive that it starts causing problems, it is known as ...
Does Your Loved One Have Any of the Following...
Does your loved one have any of these signs that might indicate problematic video gaming?
Playing more than 1-2 hrs a day of video games? Spending so much time playing video games that it causes problems with home, school and extracurricular activities? Neglecting sleep, physical activity, and other basic needs in order to spend time playing video games? Gets upset or irritable when it is time to stop playing, or when asked to stop playing?
If your loved one has one or more of these signs, then continue reading to learn more about problematic video gaming and what to do… ...
D’s Story
D. is a 50-year paramedic. After years of exposure to difficult, traumatic situations, he developed PTSD. He has tried various treatments, but none appear helpful. One of his colleagues suggests he try using magic mushrooms.
Introduction
Psychedelics (also known as hallucinogens) are a class of psychoactive substances that produce changes in sensory perception, sense of time, emotions and thinking.
Typical effects include
Euphoria, and a sense of relaxation and wellbeing;Hallucinations such as seeing and hearing things that others cannot.
Some people experience these as pleasant and, as a result, will use psychedelics on a ...
Introduction
When a person has trouble with their feelings, behaviours, learning or function, it may be helpful to see a psychologist for an assessment. Psychologists can do different types of assessments, such a psychological assessment, psychoeducational assessment, and neuropsychological assessment.
Psychological Assessment
When might this be helpful?
Are there troubles with feelings (e.g. depression, anxiety, anger)?
Are there troubles with behaviours (e.g. making unhealthy choices)?
Are there troubles coping with stresses?
What is it?
A psychological assessment is where one meets with a ...
What Is Psychosis?
Psychosis is a serious medical condition in which a person has trouble telling the difference between what is real and what is not real, typically with symptoms such as delusions and/or hallucinations:
Delusions:
Delusions are fixed, false beliefs, which do not have a basis in reality. Types of delusions include Paranoid delusions, where a person may become suspicious of others and worried about being harmed by others. It may include fears of being spied on or being followed. Bizarre delusions, which are delusions that are strange and completely impossible, e.g. believing that one is ...
My Story, Part 1
It all started in college. I began having a hard time with school work, and my part-time job. I just couldn’t focus on anything, and it was like my thoughts were all jumbled. And then I began hearing this really negative voice -- it was quiet at first, then it got louder. I began to feel that everyone was watching me.
Things got so bad, that I had to quit my job and I began skipping classes. I hid this from my parents, but my friends started to worry. I just wanted to hide all day. When I watched TV, I thought the people on the shows were speaking directly to me.
Luckily, I had a ...
Introduction
In our lives, we have many relationships, and all of these make a difference to our mental health. When our relationships go well, it helps our mental health. When we have problems with our relationships, it can cause stress and problems for our mental health.
Perhaps the most important relationship in our lives is our romantic relationship, i.e. the one that we have with our spouse, partner, husband, wife, boyfriend or girlfriend...
The following advice about our primary romantic relationship comes from the Gottman Institute, which is dedicated to the study of marital relationships -- what makes them, ...
Any of the Following?
Do you (or your loved one) have any of the following:
Instead of finding social interaction calming, finding that hearing other people and background noise can be triggering and stressful?Instead of feeling calm and safe, finding that they tend to feel unsafe and on alert?Instead of wanting to connect with other people, finding instead that they prefer being away from other people?
If so, then read on to learn more about the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
Introduction
We use our senses to perceive the world around us. Sound is essential. Our ears allow us to hear sounds, and our brain makes sense of what we hear ...
Introduction
Schizophrenia is a serious brain disorder that causes changes in a person's thoughts, perceptions, emotions and behaviours. It can make someone hear or see things that others cannot see. It can make someone feel unsafe, afraid, and lead to avoiding other people, and loss of function. Without proper treatment, it can cause serious problems with school, work and relationships. Fortunately, help is available for those with schizophrenia. In addition, there are many things that family and friends can do to support their loved ones with schizophrenia.
Do I Have Schizophrenia?
The following is a list of some symptoms of ...
What is Seasonal Depression?
"I used to really hate the winters. I'd get sad and start crying for no reason. I'd just hibernate - stop going out, sleep all the time, and couldn't stop eating carbs, and I'd gain ten pounds every winter. And then I realized that really what I had was winter depression."
Seasonal affective disorder (aka SAD, season depression or winter depression in North America) is a type of depression that occurs in the fall/winter months. It usually begins in late fall or early winter and goes away by summer, and is felt to be due to the seasonal lack of sunlight.
But doesn't everyone get a little ...
“She won't speak to anyone…”
Fatima is a 7 year old girl who plays soccer with her brothers and talks excitedly about her favorite World Cup team. Yet, at recess time, she stands alone watching the other kids play soccer and doesn’t speak when her classmates ask her if she wants to play. And despite the school year being half over, she has not spoken a single word in her classroom.
Fatima's parents have tried everything to get her to talk. They've tried talking to her about her feelings, and asking if she's been bullied. They've tried positive consequences such as rewards for being able to speak. They've tried punishing her for not ...
Samantha’s Story, Part 1
Samantha usually has a good day at work. She’s normally on time, she has a reasonable boss, and her co-workers are pretty easy-going. But recently, she had a very bad day. She was late for work. Her boss was upset. And she had a disagreement with a co-worker.
As a result, a negative, self-critical voice started running in her head: “I'm such a disappointment. Nobody likes me! Why do I even bother? No matter what I do, it’s going to fail.”
Samantha had a rough childhood. She didn’t feel accepted by her parents, and at school, there was a bully who tormented her for ...
Mary's Story
Mary is a 14-yo teenager who has always been somewhat quiet and shy, so her mother was surprised when she found out that Mary started dating a boy this school year. But lately, Mary's been a lot moodier than usual. And just the other day, Mary's mother caught a glimpse of Mary's forearms and saw that they had scratches and cuts all over them. Like most parents would feel in such a situation, Mary's mother felt suddenly scared and confused, and thought to herself "This is terrible! I've no idea how to deal with this! What am I supposed to do!"
What is Self-Harm?
Self-harm is the deliberate attempt to harm oneself and in most ...
What is self-harm?
Self-harm is when people purposely try to hurt themselves. Common ways of self-harm include:
Self-cutting
Scratching or burning one's skin
"Minor" overdosing of medications (taking excess amounts of medications but not enough to kill oneself)
Head banging (banging one's head against a wall).Who Self-Harms?
People of all ages may self-harm, though self-injury behaviours start on average at age 15, and is most commonly seen in teenagers and young adults.
Why do people self-harm?
It is believed that people self-harm in order to cope or deal with some stress. Some of ...
J’s Story
J. is a 7-yo child who chews on everything. At school, he destroys pencils and pens by chewing on them, which leads the teachers to get upset. It makes him shunned by others due to pandemic worries about germs. At home, he chews on his toys, his bedsheets, his clothes.
It is to the point where parents have to constantly replace items at home, causing financial stress on the family.
Parents have tried all sorts of consequences and punishment to get J. to stop chewing things, but nothing seems to work.
What now?
Signs of Oral Seeking
Are there any of the following signs of strong oral needs such as excessive:
Sucking or ...
Introduction
A boy is so sensitive to being touched that he can't stand being hugged or touched, his parents even need to cut tags off his clothing. A girl is so sensitive to noise that when it gets loud, she starts to cry or have tantrums. Another girl needs to move constantly to the point where teachers and other students find her constant moving disruptive. What's up with these children? Are they simply being oppositional or difficult children? Is it bad parenting? Or could it be something else...
Sensory Processing Problems
Sensory processing problems is a complex condition where a person misinterprets information from the ...
What To Do About Weight Gain?
Let your doctor know so that you can talk about various strategies such as the following:
Changes to your diet.
Consider talking with a registered dietician (RD) about changes that you can do to your diet in order to help with your weight. There may be one that works at your doctor’s clinic or hospital. Otherwise, there are registered dieticians that you can pay privately to see for a consultation session. In general, people need to reduce 500–1,000 kcal/daily from their current diet, as well as make sure that less than 30% of calories come from dietary fat.
Consider intermittent fasting
Intermittent fasting ...
Polly's Story: "I just can't stop picking my skin!"
Polly is a thirty-something who can't stop picking her skin. She’s under a lot of stress at home and work. When watching TV in the evenings, she picks on her face and forearms to the point of bleeding. Summers are stressful because she worries about others seeing the scabs and scars on her arms and legs. She'd like to get help with it, but she's so embarrassed that it's hard to talk to anyone.
Introduction
Many people pick at their skin from time to time. People may pick at their acne, moles, freckles, sores, and scabs. They may even pick at things in their skin ...
How Does Sleep Usually Happen?
The brain has an internal clock that tells us when we need to sleep. When it becomes dark outside in the evening, this clock is triggered to make melatonin. Melatonin is a brain chemical that makes us feel sleepy.
When youth reach adolescence, their sleep pattern changes. Their inner clocks shift, making them want to stay up later and sleep later the next morning. This can be difficult if they have an early school start time. Even so, try to accommodate this as far as possible.
How Much Sleep Does My Child/Youth Need?
Age of Child (in Years)Amount of Sleep ...
Introduction
In today’s modern society, more and more people seem to be having problems with sleep problems (aka insomnia).
It was not always this way however. Throughout most of history, human beings were outside during the daytime, and thus exposed to sunlight (from the sky) that would signal our brains it is daytime. And in the evening, as it gets dark, it is the lack of sunlight that is the normal signal for our brains that it is bedtime, and thus our brains make melatonin to help us sleep. Research suggests that blue light (and possibly also green light) are particularly important in suppressing our melatonin production in the evenings. ...
Introduction
Everyone wants to be happy, i.e. have mental wellness, the state of well-being where we feel contentment, love, satisfaction, pleasure or joy. Throughout history, people have struggled to find the secret to happiness.
What’s the Secret to Being Happy?
Is it having fun all the time, like playing video games and watching movies all day?
As it turns out, living a life of leisure does not lead to happiness…
Happiness (and Mental Wellness) is about Belonging, Purpose, Hope and Meaning
Happiness (and mental wellness) is a positive side effect that happens when you live a life with belonging, purpose, meaning and hope (Health ...
What is the Secret to Happiness and Mental Wellness?
Everyone wants to be happy, i.e. have mental wellness, the state of well-being where we feel contentment, love, satisfaction, pleasure or joy. Throughout history, people have struggled to find the secret to happiness.
Mental wellness can be defined as the “state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, and is able to make a contribution to her or his own community” (Health Canada, 2014).
But simply living a life of pleasure is not enough to lead to a life of happiness. A ...
Introduction
It's the adult who has never dated because he's too shy to talk to members of the opposite sex. It's the quiet employee who is under-appreciated by his co-workers and underpaid by his company. It's that great, funny person that you know, but who suffers from loneliness because s/he is too shy unless around close friends and relatives...
Do I have Social Anxiety Disorder?
Do you have any of the following?
Significant and persistent fears of social or performance situations in which embarrassment, rejection, or scrutiny are possible.You either avoid such situations, or endure them with distress (e.g. having symptoms of anxiety)The ...
Introduction
It's the student who struggles at school because she's too afraid to ask questions in class. It's the teenager who suffers from loneliness from not having any friends because he's too shy to talk to anyone in school. It's shyness so severe that it gets in the way of life...
Shyness runs along a spectrum. It is normal for everyone to be shy at certain times. It is appropriate to be more shy in some situations than in others. Some cultures value shyness more than others, especially for children. Social anxiety disorder is more than just normal shyness - it is shyness so severe that it gets in the way of enjoying ...
What is Social Anxiety Disorder?
Many people feel shy or stressed in social situations. But when you feel so anxious that it’s hard to go out and take part in everyday activities, you might have social anxiety disorder (sometimes called “Social Phobia”). People with social anxiety can become very fearful about things like:
Meeting new people;
Going somewhere new;
Speaking in public;
Eating or drinking in front of others;
Making phone calls;
Going to school or work;
Going shopping;
Taking the bus.
Many people with social anxiety ...
About 1 in 5 young people experience a mental illness like anxiety or depression before their 18th birthday. Chances are you probably already know someone with mental illness, like a friend, classmate or teammate. Sometimes, it’s a brother or sister coping with a mental illness. When this happens, it can be hard to know what the right thing is to do or say. It can also be confusing if you don’t have a good understanding of mental illness. This information sheet should help answer some questions for you.
Ways to help your brother or sister
“Do’s”
Some things that could help:
Do be open and ...
(Original title "Learn About... Stress", from the Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division)
Introduction
You have a major deadline coming up tomorrow and you still have a ton of work to do. Your child’s principal called; your child is being disruptive…again. You have 12 people coming over for dinner this weekend and you still have no idea what you’re going to make. On top of everything else, your mother isn’t feeling well but refuses to go to the doctor. Your muscles are feeling tense, you find yourself nervously tapping your feet as you sit at your desk. Your thoughts keep racing around in your ...
Introduction
If someone you love is sick, it can be scary. When they are sick with a mental health issue it can be especially scary. It can be hard to see someone you love in pain and it’s confusing when someone you know well is not acting like themselves. You know how you would take care of them if they had a cold or flu; but what do you do when their illness is a mental one? Just like if someone you love develops diabetes, someone with a mental illness needs extra love and support. You may not be able to see the illness, but it doesn’t mean that you’re powerless to help.
How do I know when to help?
Some signs that a ...
Introduction
Separation and divorce happens.
In North America, close to 40% of relationships eventually end up in separation or divorce within 15-years (Kreider et al., 2002; Department of Justice, 1997).
On one hand, separation and divorce can be extremely stressful for children and youth:
Lack of control: Their family, as they know it, is changing profoundly in so many ways, and they have no control over the situation.Blame, guilt and shame: In order to gain a sense of being in control, some children may blame themselves. Overwhelmed parents may also wrongly blame children when upset. Any of this is a massive burden for a child to take ...
Introduction
Ah, the holidays! They can be a time to celebrate and relax. But holidays can also be difficult and stressful, especially when you feel pressure to have a wonderful, perfect time.
The good news: there are many things you can do to help you and your family members cope with the holidays.
Tips for Surviving the Holidays
Keep up with healthy routines. Holidays can be physically and emotionally demanding. Stick to healthy routines. Try not to overindulge, because it can make you feel even more exhausted and physically unwell.
Get enough sleep. If you don’t ...
What is a Technology Contract?
On one hand, using technology can bring many benefits. Social media offers the promise of connecting people. Video games can be extremely fun and enjoyable to play.
Unfortunately, when used improperly, technology also has the potential to cause great harm to people.
For this reason, it is recommended that parents use a technology contract, to help children and youth make better choices around their use of technology.
There are various websites that have examples of technology contracts
Common Sense Media has technology contracts such as ...
Introduction
Therapeutic tapping is a technique that may be helpful in conditions such as stress, anxiety and depression (Church, 2012; Feinstein, 2012; Clond, 2016).
It involves using your fingers to tap on various points on the head and upper body.
Evidence for therapeutic tapping is still growing. There is less evidence for therapeutic tapping compared to other evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) or medication.
On the other hand, advantages include: It can be easily learnedYou can do therapeutic tapping on yourself or on a loved one (such as a child or youth); IIt ...
Introduction
We all get thoughts in our heads and urges to do things. For example:
You might get an itch inside your nose, and feel like you want to pick it, but you know that if you're talking with your boss, you have to suppress it.
You might see someone really smelly, but you keep that thought to yourself.
Someone is rude to you, and you feel like swearing at them, but you don't actually say anything.
Most of us are lucky because we have "brakes" that keep us acting out every single thought that we have.
But imagine what it would be like if you had ‘leaky brakes' (in the words of Dr. Duncan ...
Christopher's Story, Part 1
Christopher is a 10-year old boy who heard about a recent terrorist attack on the news. Ever since then, he is worried when parents leave the house, and is having trouble sleeping at night. When he expresses his fear, his father tells him not to worry.
His dad reminds him that it’s safe in their home, that they have a security system, and that they can call the police if they have trouble. But Chris is still anxious, no matter how much his parents try to reason with him.
What News Events are Upsetting for Children?
We all want our children to grow up feeling safe. But almost every ...
What is TMS?
TMS is a treatment that directs magnetic energy pulses at specific parts of the brain that are involved in brain conditions such as depression.It is felt that in conditions such as depression, there is an imbalance in brain activity.Magnetic pulses pass painlessly through the skull, and stimulate brain cells, helping with ‘neuromodulation’, i.e. rebalancing healthy patterns of activity.TMS is a relatively new treatment compared to other treatments and requires special equipment. TMS is usually used when other usual treatments have been tried without success (e.g. talking therapy, medication or other ...
What is Trichotillomania?
Trichotillomania (pronounced as "trick-o-till-o-mania", commonly called "trich" or also known simply as ‘hair pulling') is a condition where a person has repeated, uncontrollable urges to pull out hair from their scalp, eyelashes, nose hair, ear hair, eyebrows or other body hair. The term trichotillomania comes from the Greek words trich (for hair), tillo (pulling) and mania (an impulse).
On one hand, it is normal for human beings have grooming behaviours for body function and hygiene, such as pulling out unwanted hair.
On the other hand, pulling out excessive hairs can lead to noticeable bald ...
Introduction
Our brains are wired to require strong relationships, attachments and face-to-face social contact with fellow human beings for happiness and well-being. Good relationships and healthy bonds to others keep us resilient and allow us to bounce back from setbacks. Unfortunately, our technologies and devices are so addictive, that many people are more connected to their devices than each other. The very devices that were meant to make life easier for us are now threatening to disconnect us from one another and thus, damage our physical and emotional health...
Children and youth now use technologies that did not ...
Do you Smoke?
Do you smoke? If so, then replacing cigarette smoking with vaping may reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals. But vaping is not without risks.
Are You a Youth?
Are you a youth? Unfortunately, vaping is not as safe as the marketing would have you believe. Don’t let yourself be manipulated into spending your money that simply ends up profiting big industry.
What is Vaping?
Vaping (also known as e-Cigarettes) is when you puff (breath in and out) a “vapour” (an aerosol). This vapour is produced by a battery-operated e-cigarette device,such as mods, vapes, vape pens, e-hookahs, or tank systems. Vaping ...
Vivian’s Story: “When I read, I get headaches, the light hurts, and the words move”
Vivian is a student who has been struggling for a long time. “I want to learn, but I hate school because there's too much reading. When I read, I get headaches, the light hurts, and the words move..."
When she was younger, she saw many professionals for her reading issues. Her parents were told many opinions including:
"Your daughter is lazy -- you just need better discipline to get her to read."
"She has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and that's why she can't focus" -- yet all the usual ADHD ...
1. Keep in Touch With Your Mental Health Service Provider
Ask to be put on a cancellation list (if your provider has one). This gives you the possibility of being seen more quickly. If another family cancels an appointment, your service provider calls you to see if your child or teen can make the appointment time. If not, you can wait for the next availabale appointment. Make sure your provider has up to date contact information for you, including a number where you can be reached during the day.
Let your mental health service provider (or family doctor) know if your child or teen is getting worse. Your child’s place ...
Introduction
"When my sister got sick she was acting really bizarre and the police had to take her to emergency. It was really scary. My friends didn't understand at first that it was just because her brain was sick, but they do now."
Why is my brother or sister acting this way?
Psychosis is an illness of the brain. It is caused in part by genetic (inherited) brain problems plus stress or street drugs like marijuana and crystal meth. When the brain gets ill, it is hard for the person to know what is wrong. They may make up and believe other explanations for why they feel so weird, and they may act strangely. It will be really hard for ...
What is a Working Animal?
Working animals help people in their day-to-day lives.
There are different types of working animals:
1. Service animal: A service animal, which is usually a dog, is an animal that has been trained to help a person with a physical disability, brain condition, and/or mental health challenge. Service dogs can be trained to help their handler with specific tasks so that their handler can be more independent in their day-to-day lives. Service dogs carry special protections in the law, e.g. they can have access to places that other animals are not allowed to access. Most service animals are dogs:Guide dogs: trained to ...
