The more you know about mental health, the better equipped you are to make a positive impact on your community. Educating yourself on mental health helps you care for your emotional wellbeing and recognize when you need to seek support. Mental health awareness is especially important in rural areas, where these issues often aren’t discussed […]
Mindfulness is a state of mind where you are tuned into your surroundings and your body. When you are mindful, you are absorbed in the present moment and paying attention to what’s happening here and now, rather than thinking about the future or past. You are observing your feelings and thoughts without judging them. Mindfulness […]
Take a moment to visualize a warm summer day where you’re soaking in the sun and spending time in nature. Does this image evoke feelings of happiness and relaxation for you? That’s because sunlight has countless benefits for your mental health! It increases your level of serotonin, a hormone known for its role in emotional […]
As the year approaches its end, the holiday season is soon to be in full swing. For some people, this can be an exciting time. Maybe the string lights, holiday music and the prospect of social gatherings bring a sense of cheer and elation. For others, this time can be incredibly stressful and come with […]
The Stigma-Free Society reached out to Mabe Kyle and asked them to share their experience with stigma and mental health as a rural youth in the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Mabe is a poet and co-founder of the ROCQY (Rural Ontario Community of Queer Youth). Mabe Kyle (they/them) Maker of poetry, pottery, and photography who loves being […]
Mental health is a complex issue. For many people who experience challenges with their mental health, it can be difficult finding the right supports on their recovery journey. For years, the stigma associated with the subject has kept a lot of people suffering in silence. Thankfully things are beginning to change, and the discussion has […]
Stigma-Free Society recently reached out to Meagan Ann Gordon and Kaitlyn Beaulieu from the Rural Ottawa Youth Mental Health Collective (ROYMHC). Keep reading to learn more about the ROYMHC and Kaitlyn’s experience with mental health as a youth living in a rural area! 1. Tell us about the Rural Ottawa Youth Mental Health Collective! Why […]
Ally Waddell is an Instructor at Mental Health First Aid. She holds an Honors Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and Family Studies & Human Development. The Stigma-Free Society had the opportunity to speak with her about the barriers she faced while seeking mental healthcare as a rural resident, and how she is working to fill this […]
Traditional forms of mental health treatment, like psychotherapy or peer support groups, can provide life-changing benefits. However, people living in rural areas may experience stigma that prevents them from seeking treatment. Care farming offers a unique opportunity for rural communities: it incorporates mental health treatment into fun social activities in a stigma-free environment. What Is […]
The Stigma-Free Society recently had the opportunity to speak to Meghan South, a recent participant of our Rural Mental Health Peer Support training program, who shared with us about her experience living in rural Saskatchewan and working in the field of mental health and substance use recovery. She shared with us about her experience with […]
