Blog
Mental Health Stories, Tips and Happenings
Check out our recent articles below to learn how to better manage your mental health, what’s going on around our branch and how you can get involved. Happy reading!
10 Ways to Support Your Loved One Through Psychosis
Five Ways to Care for Your Mental Health as a High School Student
Changing the Narrative: Peyton’s Path to Hope on World Suicide Prevention Day
How To Manage Low Mood and Depression After Being Discharged From the Hospital
CMHA Celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day 2024
Finding Support as a Newcomer to Canada (For Youth)
Tips to shake off the winter blues
As the cold winter days grow shorter, Ontarians may find themselves lacking energy and feeling “blue.” Winter blues is a term that is commonly used to describe a mild form of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or a general feeling of low energy and mood during the winter months. Signs you may be experiencing SAD may include lethargy, irritability, changes in sleep patterns, and a general sense of not feeling your best. In Ontario, research suggests
Canadian Mental Health Association York Region South Simcoe celebrates excellence and innovation at annual Beacon of Light Awards
Blue Door INNclusion Program and mental health advocate, Judy Brunton, among outstanding 2023 Beacon of Light Award Honourees (Newmarket, ON – November 27, 2023) – The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) York Region South Simcoe recently hosted its annual Beacon of Light Awards recognizing the outstanding employees, volunteers and community partners who contribute to CMHA’s culture and strategic growth pillars of access to care, operational excellence and innovation. “CMHA’s Beacon of Light Awards
Tips to Combat Holiday Stress
The holiday season is a time of celebration and joy, but it can also be extremely stressful, which is why it is crucial to prioritize our well-being during this time! In this blog, our amazing Clinical Therapy Program offers four tips to combat stress during the holidays: Practice self-care While the holidays are a time for giving, it’s also important to take care of ourselves. For example, treat yourself to a warm beverage/snack, curl up
10 Ways To Find Motivation While Depressed
Digital Health Week 2023
BounceBack Ontario Youth Mental Health Partnership
Mental Illness Awareness Week
October 1st to 7th is Mental Illness Awareness Week, an opportunity to raise awareness and combat the stigma associated with mental illness. About 1 in 5 Canadians experience mental illness each year, yet there remains a significant gap in understanding mental illness and its impact on individuals’ lives. What is the difference between mental health and mental illness? Understanding Mental Health Mental health describes a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It relates to
Suicide Prevention: Supporting Teens
Reducing the Risk of an Overdose
5 Tips for Transitioning to Back-to-School
Back-to-school season is quickly approaching and as you prepare for the new school year ahead, don’t forget that taking care of your mental health and well-being during this transition period is very important. To help you make this the best school year yet, CMHA’s College of Health and Well-Being team is sharing these five essential tips for a smooth transition into your back-to-school routine: Do some test runs Take some walks around the school and
CMHA York Region South Simcoe’s Mental Health in Motion raises over $166,000 for youth mental health
Photo by Ryan To (Vaughan, ON) – Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) York Region South Simcoe’s largest fundraising event, Mental Health in Motion, raised more than $166,000 for youth mental health services. On Sunday, June 11, 2023, 320 community members came together to support youth mental health and celebrate the unveiling of the next generation of CMHA’s Mobile Youth Walk-In Clinic (MOBYSS). “A decade ago, a dream was born to create an innovative mobile clinic
Tips for Prioritizing your Mental Health
Coping with symptoms of PTSD
CMHA Celebrates Pride
Schizophrenia FAQ – Tips from a Peer Support Specialist at CMHA
Today is Early Psychosis and Schizophrenia Awareness Day. Our H.O.P.E. Early Psychosis Intervention team understands that it can be upsetting or stressful to receive a diagnosis of schizophrenia, however, know that you are more than your diagnosis or a label, and recovery is possible! To help you better understand Schizophrenia and coping strategies, we’ve asked one of our knowledgeable Peer Support Specialists from our H.O.P.E. program to provide their insights: What are the early signs
Participate in CMHA’s Mental Health in Motion and support youth mental health
How to be a safe space for your loved ones to talk about their mental health
Five ways to cope with climate anxiety
CMHA York Region South Simcoe welcomes historic investment for community mental health and addictions in 2023 provincial budget
The provincial government has allocated the largest base funding commitment for community mental health and addictions care in a decade as part of their 2023 budget. The government announced Thursday that it is providing the sector with $425 million over three years for mental health and addictions, including a five per cent increase for base funding of community-based mental health and addiction services. The funding will serve to stabilize the sector, as requests for mental
National Social Work Month 2023
Combat feelings of loneliness this winter
Grants available to improve community safety and wellbeing in Central Newmarket
The Central Newmarket Community Action Table, led by the Canadian Mental Health Association, York Region and South Simcoe is awarding $1,000 Quick Action Grants to residents leading community-driven initiatives. “The Quick Action Grants are an amazing opportunity for residents to be leaders in bringing meaningful and positive change for the safety and wellbeing of their community,” says Shauna Eisen, Manager of Community Engagement, Canadian Mental Health Association. Facilitated by the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan,
Grants available to improve community safety and wellbeing in South-Central Richmond Hill
The South-Central Richmond Hill Community Action Table led by the Canadian Mental Health Association, York Region and South Simcoe is awarding $1,000 Quick Action Grants to residents leading community-driven initiatives. “The Quick Action Grants are an amazing opportunity for residents to be leaders in bringing meaningful and positive change for the safety and wellbeing of their community,” says Shauna Eisen, Manager of Community Engagement, Canadian Mental Health Association. Facilitated by the Community Safety and Wellbeing
CMHA recognizes Men’s Mental Health Awareness Day
The Importance of Gender-affirming Care
National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S)
CMHA celebrates National Caregiver Day
Finding Supports as a Newcomer to Canada
We Stand Together to Support Respect and Safety for Ontario’s Workers Who Provide Care
Statement from Health Service Providers in Ontario’s Central Region: We Stand Together to Support Respect and Safety for Ontario’s Workers Who Provide Care We, as leaders in Ontario’s health care system, recognize every person has been impacted by the pandemic. We thank them for the sacrifices made over the past two years to protect our health care system and its lifeline, health care workers. The pandemic, however, is not over for Ontario’s workers who provide
5 Black Trailblazers
Black History Month is celebrated in February in Canada. In honour of this month, Shon a Case Manager in our Home Now program, provided an overview of why we celebrate Black History Month, as well as five Black Canadian Trailblazers we should know about. Black people become concerned that history, books and schools only focused on things from one perspective and did not consider the history and contributions of Black people. Canadians were and still
Mental Health Impact of COVID-19: CMHA Ontario’s 4th Poll
(Newmarket, Feb. 7, 2022) – New polling data released today indicates that more Ontarians are accessing mental health supports than at any other time during the pandemic. The survey by Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Ontario indicates that one in four people (24 per cent) have sought help for their mental health challenges, a significant uptick from 17 per cent last winter and nine per cent almost two years ago. The data also shows that
CMHA celebrates Black History Month
My Brother’s Loss: Marie
Under the Rainbow Group
Talking about your Mental Health
Starting the Conversation about Mental Health
2022 Job Search Tips
Newcomer Family Workshops
Talking To Your Teens About Their Mental Health
Reader’s Choice Awards
We’ve been nominated for the 2021 Reader’s Choice Awards under the category of Best Non Profit/Foundation in eight York Region area newspapers. Please vote for us and feel free to share with family and friends so they can vote as well. You can vote multiple times! Vote for Us in Each Local Area: Markham Economist and Sun ***Listed as Canadian Mental Health Association Aurora Banner ***Listed as Canadian Mental Health Association-Aurora Branch Newmarket Era/King Connection ***Listed as CMHA
Olympian Paul’s Story
I’m an Olympic Gold Medalist. I never thought I’d be homeless. Training for the Olympics is hard. But being homeless and struggling with an addiction, not knowing where that game will end, that’s harder. CMHA saved my life. I don’t know where I’d be without them. I knew I had mental health issues from a young age. But being a great athlete and having the persona of “the funny guy”, saved me from teen suicide. Athletics was my getaway. I
Become a Mental Health First Aider
Did you know that you can become a certified mental health first responder? Knowing more about mental illness and having a better understanding about mental health means we can better support ourselves, those we love, live and work with, or even people we walk by on the street every day. Not only can you make a difference in someone’s life, but you can potentially save a life with skills developed from Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health Doesn’t Take a Holiday: Michelle’s Story
CMHA York & South Simcoe Recognizes National Addictions Awarness Week
From November 21 – 27, CMHA York Region and South Simcoe will join with the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) and addiction prevention, treatment and recovery organizations across the country to mark National Addictions Awareness Week (NAAW). This years’ theme for National Addictions Awareness Week is Driving Change Together, emphasizing how Canadians can collaborate as a community to create change and shape a brighter future for people who use substances. To help,
Stressed About School? We’ve Got You Covered
It’s important to pay attention to your mental health just as you would your physical health. CMHA Ontario is reminding students to keep their mental health in check with some quick stress-management tips. Those struggling with low mood or anxiety can turn to our free skill-building program BounceBack®: Reclaim your health to learn how to deal with stress, being overwhelmed and worried, and more. Through BounceBack, youth 15 and up will learn practical skills to help improve their mental health. Here are some things to keep in mind: Take care of your body. Mental and physical
Truth and Reconciliation Day
Today we join Canadians across the country in honouring the survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities for Truth and Reconciliation Day. We pledge to act to support Indigenous communities’ calls to action on reconciliation, and particularly those in support of Indigenous mental health, healing, and well-being. Along with wearing orange shirts to stand in solidarity with residential school survivors and their families, CMHA-YRSS will be participating in a workshop today led by the
World Suicide Prevention Day
September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day. Understandably, the topic of suicide is difficult for many. That’s why we’ve created a roundup of all the articles we’ve ever written on the topic to help you learn more. If you or a loved one is considering suicide, please call 911 immediately or proceed to your nearest emergency room. Preventing Suicide Coping With the Death of a Loved One From Suicide Talking to Teens About Mental Health
Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan
Trillium Grant Provided Technology for Online Mental Health Services
MEDIA RELEASE (Newmarket, ON – August 3, 2021) – The Canadian Mental Health Association York Region and South Simcoe (CMHA-YRSS) ramped up its virtual services during the pandemic thanks to a $39,000 Resilient Communities Fund grant that it received from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) in late 2020. The grant was used to purchase technology equipment and licenses to expand virtual delivery of mental health services for clients. “The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant
A Logo for Reconciliation: CMHA Solidarity with Indigenous Peoples
In honour of the children who died at residential schools and in recognition of the survivors and their families, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) will be changing the colour of its logo to orange until Orange Shirt Day on September 30. Beyond the symbolic, the orange logo also signifies our commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in Canada. For too long, First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples have lived the impacts of systemic racism
A Thoughtful Canada Day at CMHA
CMHA York Region and South Simcoe joins many across the country in reflecting on Canada’s past and future this year on July 1. CMHA is deeply troubled by the revelations from investigations into unmarked grave sites at former residential schools in BC and Saskatchewan. We recognize that for Canada’s Indigenous peoples, this is a day of mourning rather than celebration, and extend our deepest condolences to those who are grieving. The physical, psychological and spiritual
Pride Month Statement from CEO Rebecca Shields
Happy Pride everyone! To me, Pride Month is about coming together to show our support for all members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, celebrate how far we have come and to reflect on the work that still needs to be done going forward. Pride means a lot to me, as I have personally been out for a long time. I came out in 1992, but I knew well before then—let’s just say back in the 80’s
Mental Health in Motion: Carol
The staff here at CMHA York Region and South Simcoe believe in our mission and work so much, that many participate in Mental Health In Motion every year. Learn why Carol, Senior Director, Services, Quality and Innovation, has participated in this event for many years. What is your position at CMHA York Region and South Simcoe? Senior Director, Services, Quality & Innovation Why are you participating in Mental Health in Motion? I have been participating in
Mental Health in Motion Virtual Kick-Off Event
Sunday, June 13, 2021 @ 9:00 A.M. Facebook and YouTube Join us for our Mental Health in Motion Virtual Kick-Off Event in support of youth mental health. Tune in to our YouTube and Facebook pages on Sunday, June 13th at 9 a.m. to hear heartwarming personal stories about how we’re making a difference in the lives of youth, do an interactive fitness warmup and more fun surprises. Running virtually until the end of June, Mental
Mental Health in Motion: Penny
The staff here at CMHA York Region and South Simcoe believe in our mission and work so much, that many participate in Mental Health In Motion every year. Learn why Penny, from the Newcomer Health and Well-Being Program, is in motion this year. What is your position at CMHA York Region and South Simcoe? I work as a Nurse Practitioner in the awesome Newcomer Health and Well-Being Program-work I truly enjoy. We seek to support newcomers
Mental Health in Motion: Joshua
Mental Health In Motion is back and this year we are going virtual. Learn why Joshua, who is a member of our Board of Directors, is in motion this year. What is your connection to CMHA York Region and South Simcoe and Mental Health in Motion? Currently I am a member of the board and a proud supporter/fundraiser! Why are you participating in Mental Health in Motion? Mental Health in Motion, in particular MOBYSS
Mental Health in Motion 2021 Ambassadors
We are so happy to introduce you to our Ambassadors for Mental Health in Motion 2021. They have come on board to help raise awareness and funds for critically needed mental health services and supports in our community. To learn more about Mental Health in Motion 2021 or to register (it’s FREE) visit www.cmhainmotion.ca. Lauren is a mom of 2, and a high school English teacher. Her hobbies include spinning, lifting weights, reading, and
Paws in Motion
We are so excited to announce the Paws in Motion Team! Knowing the positive influence that animals have on our mental health and the smiles that they bring to our faces, we have assembled a group of ‘pawfect’ influencers that are encouraging you to get active with your pets, all while raising critically needed funds for youth mental health services and supports. After checking out their profiles below, try out our dog walking BINGO challenge.
Nursing Week: Jennifer
We are so grateful both on Nursing Week and every week for the amazing nurses that make up our team here at Canadian Mental Health Association, York Region and South Simcoe. One of these nurses is Jennifer, who is a Registered Nurse in our Flexible Supportive Housing Program. Learn more about her below. Why did you decide to become a nurse? I have always loved science and had interest in learning the human body.
Nursing Week: Jessica
We are so grateful both on Nursing Week and every week for the amazing nurses that make up our team here at Canadian Mental Health Association, York Region and South Simcoe. One of these nurses is Jessica, who is a Registered Nurse Case Manager in our Early Psychosis Intervention (H.O.P.E.) Program. Learn more about her role as a nurse below. Why did you decide to become a nurse? I started nursing school after high school
Nursing Week: Frances
We are so grateful both on Nursing Week and every week for the amazing nurses that make up our team here at Canadian Mental Health Association, York Region and South Simcoe. One of these nurses is Frances, Vice President of Clinical Operations. Learn more about her journey as a nurse below. Why did you decide to become a nurse? Honestly, it was sort of a fluke. I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to
Social Work Week and Month: Karen
Social Work Month: Kusumam
Social Work Month: Nisha
In honour of National Social Work Month, we decided to share the profiles of some of the great Social Workers that make up the awesome team here at CMHA-YRSS. First up is Nisha, a Social Worker in our Flexible Support Program. 1. Why did you decide to become a Social Worker? I remember doing the test in my grade 10 career studies class and social work was the first profession that came up for me.
Peer Support Specialist: Nicole
This week we are sharing the profiles of two of our amazing Peer Support Specialists and the awesome work they do here at CMHA York Region and South Simcoe. We’d also like to take this opportunity to introduce you to the CMHA College of Health and Well-Being (based on the Recovery College* model), that is aimed at enabling people to become experts in their own self-care and to develop skills and confidence to manage their
Landlords Needed In York Region and South Simcoe For The Homeless
Homelessness is a pressing issue in York Region and something that can happen to anyone at any given time. Homelessness also comes at a cost for the system. According to the Homeless Hub, research has shown that the cost to house someone is significantly cheaper than shelter beds or hospital stays. We are currently looking for landlords that would be willing to house those experiencing homelessness. Along with the opportunity to give back to people in need, both yourself
Why I’m in Motion: Monika
The staff here at CMHA York Region and South Simcoe believe in our mission and work so much, that many participate in Mental Health In Motion every year. Learn why Monika, from the People and Culture Team, is in motion this year. What is your position at CMHA and how long have you been here? I am a recruiter on the amazing People and Culture team (Human Resources). I have been working at CMHA-YRSS for a little over a