Canada’s Student Mental Health Network

⚠️ Trigger warning: Mentions of su***de in this post. This month is Buddy Up Month, a men’s su***de prevention campaign aiming to promote conversation between men and their buddies. Swipe to learn more about what Buddy Up Month is, statistical facts surrounding men’s mental health, ways to get involved and tips for physical and mental wellbeing.

June is pride month! 🌈
Swipe for resources.

🧠 Stress vs. Anxiety: Understanding the Difference 🧘‍♂️✨
Stress is a reaction to a specific situation, while anxiety is a persistent feeling of worry that doesn’t always have a clear cause. Knowing the distinction can help you manage both more effectively!

Today is International Day Against Homophobia, Biophobia, and Transphobia.

Swipe to learn more about National Women’s Health Week and the reason behind it. For more information, check out the Women’s Health Week website to learn how to advocate for women’s health, get involved, and different upcoming events!

Graduation: A Triumph Over Imposter Syndrome 🎓
As we toss our caps in the air and bid farewell to our college/university days, it’s natural to reflect on the journey we’ve taken to reach this milestone. For many of us, it’s been a rollercoaster ride of triumphs, challenges, and moments of self-doubt.
One challenge that often lurks in the shadows of academic success is imposter syndrome. It’s that nagging feeling that we’re not truly deserving of our accomplishments, that we’ve somehow fooled everyone into thinking we’re more capable than we believe ourselves to be.
But here’s the truth: You earned this. Every late-night study session, every paper written against the backdrop of self-doubt, every hurdle overcome — they all contributed to your success.
Imposter syndrome can be particularly insidious in academia, where the pressure to excel can feel overwhelming. But remember, you are not alone. Many of your peers have likely grappled with similar feelings at some point in their academic journey.
So as you don your cap and gown and prepare to step into the next chapter of your life, take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements. You are not an imposter; you are a graduate, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and resilience to thrive in whatever path you choose.
Congratulations, graduates. Today, we celebrate not only your academic accomplishments but also your strength and determination in the face of doubt. Here’s to embracing your success and confidently embracing the journey ahead. 🌟

1. Dopamine:
Activities: Engaging in activities that involve goal-setting, accomplishment, and reward. This can include completing tasks, achieving personal milestones, or pursuing hobbies you enjoy.
What it does: Dopamine is often associated with the brain‘s reward system. It plays a crucial role in motivation, pleasure, and reinforcement learning. It’s also involved in motor control and emotional regulation.
2. Serotonin:
Activities: Exposing yourself to sunlight, exercising regularly, practicing mindfulness and meditation, and maintaining a balanced diet that includes foods rich in tryptophan (a precursor to serotonin) like turkey, eggs, nuts, and cheese.
What it does: Serotonin is involved in mood regulation, appetite, sleep, and social behavior. It‘s often called the ”feel-good“ neurotransmitter because higher levels are associated with feelings of well-being and happiness.
3. Oxytocin:
Activities: Physical touch, hugging, cuddling, spending quality time with loved ones, acts of kindness and generosity, and bonding activities such as playing team sports or participating in group activities.
What it does: Oxytocin is often referred to as the ”love hormone“ or ”bonding hormone.“ It’s released during social interactions and physical touch, promoting feelings of trust, intimacy, and bonding. It also plays a role in childbirth and breastfeeding.
4. Endorphins:
Activities: Aerobic exercise, laughter, listening to music you enjoy, practicing deep breathing exercises, and consuming spicy foods (which can trigger the release of endorphins).
What it does: Endorphins are the body‘s natural painkillers. They are released in response to stress and pain and can induce feelings of euphoria and well-being. They also play a role in regulating appetite and reducing anxiety.
Activating these neurotransmitters through various activities can contribute to overall well-being and mental health. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced lifestyle and seek professional help if you‘re experiencing persistent mood disturbances or mental health issues.

This week join the Canadian Mental Health Association in exploring how compassion connects us all for Mental Health Week. Swipe to learn more!

😂 Happy World Laughter Day! Laughter isn't just contagious, it's crucial for our mental well-being! 😄 Did you know that laughing boosts endorphins, reduces stress, and even improves heart health? Let's spread those good vibes and keep those smiles shining bright!

Happy May! This month is mental health awareness month, let’s all try to spread more awareness and have more conversations about mental health this month 💙

The following information is taken from the NIH Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults: What You Need to Know. For more information, please visit: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/adhd-what-you-need-to-know

People with ADHD experience an ongoing pattern of the following types of symptoms:
* Inattention–having difficulty paying attention
* Hyperactivity–having too much energy or moving and talking too much
* Impulsivity–acting without thinking or having difficulty with self-control
Some people with ADHD mainly have symptoms of inattention. Others mostly have symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity. Some people have both types of symptoms.

Signs of inattention may include challenges with:
* Paying close attention to details or making seemingly careless mistakes at work or during other activities
* Sustaining attention for long tasks, such as preparing reports, completing forms, or reviewing lengthy papers
* Listening closely when spoken to directly
* Following instructions and finishing duties in the workplace
* Organizing tasks and activities and managing time
* Engaging in tasks that require sustained attention
* Losing things such as keys, wallets, and phones
* Being easily distracted by unrelated thoughts or stimuli
* Being forgetful in daily activities, such as paying bills, keeping appointments, or returning calls
Signs of hyperactivity and impulsivity may include:
* Experiencing extreme restlessness, difficulty sitting still for extended periods, and/or wearing others out with one’s activity
* Fidgeting with or tapping hands or feet or squirming in seat
* Being unable to engage quietly in leisure activities
* Talking excessively
* Answering questions before they are asked completely
* Having difficulty waiting one’s turn, such as when waiting in line
* Interrupting or intruding on others

* Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, professors, or counselors for support. Many campuses offer counseling services specifically for students dealing with grief.
* Take Care of Yourself: Make self-care a priority. Eat healthily, get regular exercise, and try to maintain a regular sleep schedule. Taking care of your physical health can positively impact your emotional well-being.
* Allow Yourself to Feel: It‘s normal to experience a range of emotions when grieving. Allow yourself to feel whatever you’re feeling without judgment. Suppressing emotions can prolong the grieving process.
* Stay Connected: Maintain connections with friends and loved ones, even if you don‘t feel like socializing. Having a support system can provide comfort and distraction during difficult times.
* Manage Academic Expectations: Communicate with professors or academic advisors about your situation. They may be able to provide extensions on assignments or make accommodations to help you manage your workload.
* Create Rituals: Establishing rituals or routines can provide a sense of comfort and stability during a time of grief. Whether it’s journaling, attending religious services, or taking walks in nature, find activities that help you feel grounded.
* Join a Support Group: Consider joining a grief support group either on or off-campus. Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can be validating and offer additional support.
* Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Explore mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
* Give Yourself Time: Grieving is a process, and healing takes time. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself to grieve at your own pace. There is no ”right“ way to grieve.
* Consider Professional Help: If you‘re struggling to cope with grief or experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in grief counseling.

Today is the World Health Day — we are all reminded of the fundamental right to health that every individual deserves. This year’s theme, “My Health, My Right,” underscores the importance of access to healthcare as a fundamental human right. Amidst global challenges, this day serves as a rallying call to prioritize equitable access to quality healthcare for all. From addressing healthcare disparities to advocating for health policies that benefit everyone, World Health Day encourages us to stand together in support of universal health coverage. Join us as we celebrate this important day and reaffirm our commitment to building healthier, more resilient communities worldwide. Learn more about World Health Day 2024 and how you can get involved on the WHO website.

April is ! Let’s celebrate, understand, and advocate for neurodiversity 🧠 To learn more, see the last slide for some resources!

April marks Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. Let’s unite as students to amplify voices, support survivors, and foster safer communities. From spreading awareness online to organizing campus events, together we can empower change and prevent sexual violence.

Maintaining balance is key to navigating the dynamic landscape of post-secondary life. As you embark on this journey filled with academic pursuits, social connections, and personal growth, it’s vital to recognize the significance of achieving equilibrium among these facets. Striking a balance between your studies, relationships, and hobbies not only enhances your overall well-being but also fosters success in all areas of your life. By prioritizing academics while also nurturing meaningful relationships and pursuing interests outside of school, you cultivate a holistic approach to personal and academic growth. This balance enables you to thrive academically, maintain strong emotional connections, and cultivate a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Moreover, it equips you with essential life skills such as time management, resilience, and adaptability, which are invaluable assets as you navigate the complexities of your academic and professional endeavors. Remember, maintaining balance isn’t just about managing your time; it’s about investing in yourself and creating a fulfilling and sustainable lifestyle that supports your overall well-being and success.

Today we are educating about bipolar disorder. Highlighting mental disorders is crucial to staying educated and reducing stigma.

Empowering ways to advocate for mental health as a post-secondary student! From organizing awareness events to promoting self-care resources on campus, there are countless ways to make a difference. Let’s break the stigma and support each other’s mental well-being!

Exploring the diverse world of mental health careers! From counseling to psychiatric nursing, there are endless opportunities to make a difference in people’s lives. Which path will you choose?

This week is brain awareness week, a moment to reflect on your brains health. Swipe to learn more about what the various domains within brain health and tips to try this week to promote a healthy brain 🧠

Finding solace in the melody, understanding in the lyrics, and peace within the rhythm. Exploring the powerful relationship between mental health and music. 🎵💖

Gentle reminder to treat yourself with the kindness you show others. Take some time today to appreciate your accomplishments!

Today is International Women’s Day! Celebrate the women in your life and recognize women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. Nothing is out of reach!

Today is World Compliment Day! Help us celebrate by passing along a meaningful compliment to someone in your life.

Did you know that there are over 6000 types of rare diseases? 🦠 They are often overlooked by numerous healthcare professionals and its common symptoms can lead to misdiagnoses.

The Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders (CORD) actively collaborates with policy makers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and organizations such as Pulmonary Hypertension Association (PHA) Canada to develop a Canadian Rare Disease Drug Strategy. Click the link in our bio for more information on how you can help.

To bring further awareness to the hardships that come with eating disorders, today will feature our “Body Image and Disordered Eating” module. Although Eating Disorder Awareness week has already passed, disordered eating and body image are ongoing concerns that must be acknowledged.

This module will help you learn how to differentiate the different types of eating disorders in either yourself or in others around you. You will also learn how to ways on how to support those struggling with an eating disorder. Click the link in our bio for more information❤️

Today is pink shirt day. Victims of bullying should not feel alone. Kindness starts here. Bullying ends here.

Join our team this Wednesday, February 28th, from 3-5pm for our colouring event at Mackintosh-Corry. This event is a great way to de-stress and practice mindfulness. All colouring materials will be provided. We are excited to see you all there!

The “Self Care and Building Resilience” module will introduce you to the concepts of self-care and resilience. These are separate but related concepts, with good self-care practices contributing to building resilience. Self-care reduces stress and anxiety, boosts self-esteem, and builds resilience against difficult situations. This module provides an overview of both these concepts, giving self-care strategies and resources, and information on building your personal resilience. Link to module: https://rise.articulate.com/share/Ws5BCQByZBM_L9q8XhL1K2G5Jhaww-pm #/

Today is Random Acts of Kindness Day! Try to make an extra effort to be kind to the people around you. Simple, small acts of kindness can go a long way.