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ACB Wellness Newsletter

ACB Wellness Project Newsletter (Issue 2)

In this Issue:

  • Issue 2 contributor

  • Signs & symptoms of mental health

  • When to seek mental health suport

  • Where to seek mental health support

About Issue 2

Welcome to the Wellness Newsletter Issue 2 as part of the project whose aim is to increase mental health awareness and systems navigation. In this issue, we have a privilege to have a mental health expert, Noreen Sibanda sharing some insights about mental health. In this issue, Noreen starts by providing a brief background about mental health, explaining some common signs and symptoms and when and where to seek mental health support. Thank you Noreen, for sharing your expertise on this very important public health issue.

We all feel low at times, but how do we know when to seek mental health support? To collaborate and for more information email ACBWellness@norquest.ca.

Issue Contributor: Noreen Sibanda (MA), Registered Provisional Psychologist

 

Noreen is an experienced clinician, speaker, psycho-educational workshop facilitator and a Sessional Instructor at Concordia University. She has presented at local and international conferences and reviewed and developed anti-racism and mental health curricula for organizations and postsecondary institutions.  Noreen is the Executive Director of The Alberta Black Therapist Network (ABTN) https://albertablacktherapistnetwork.com. She is a University of Alberta Alumni, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Women and Gender studies. She also holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and is a practicing Registered Provisional Psychologist and owner at Kaizen Psychological and Consulting.  Noreen has appeared on podcasts, television and radio shows and is the 2022 NBCA Professional of the Year, Momentumwalkin’s 2022 Outstanding Leadership in the Mental Health sector and a 2023 nominee of the Health and Wellness Superlative Awards. In addition, she is a proud executive member of When African Women Talk.

 

Mental health overview

It is widely acknowledged that one in five Canadians will encounter a mental health concern at some juncture in their lives. Access to mental health support can help reduce the symptoms and severity of the illness. It is essential to stay health by exercising, eating well and seeking help when needed. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of mental health is essential. Knowing when to seek help is a sign of strength.  

To collaborate, participate and for more information email ACBWellness@norquest.ca

Common signs & symptoms of mental health concerns
 

  • Persistent sadness or hopelessness:
    • Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless for an extended period or without a significant reason why.
       
  • Changes in sleep patterns:
    • Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping consistently.
       
  • Loss of interest:
    • Losing interest in activities or hobbies once enjoyed.
       
  • Irritability or mood swings:
    • Frequent mood changes, irritability, or outbursts of anger.
       
  • Social withdrawal:
    • Avoiding social interactions and isolating oneself more than your usual baseline.
       
  • Changes in appetite or weight:
    • Significant changes in eating habits or unexplained weight loss/gain.
       
  • Fatigue and low energy:
    • Feeling consistently tired, even after rest without a medical reason.
       
  • Difficulty concentrating:
    • Struggling to focus, make decisions, or remember things.
       
  • Physical symptoms:
    • Experiencing physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or aches
      and pains without a clear medical cause.
       
  • Feelings of guilt or worthlessness:
    • Feeling excessively guilty, worthless, or self-critical.
       
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide:
    • Having thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or expressing a desire not to live.
       
  • Increased anxiety or panic attacks:
    • Feeling anxious, restless, or having panic attacks.
       
  • Excessive worry:
    • Constantly worrying about various aspects of life, including minor issues.
       
  • Changes in behavior:
    • Engaging in risky or self-destructive behaviors, such as substance abuse.

When to seek help

It's essential to seek help when you or someone you know is experiencing the following:

  • Severity
    • When symptoms are severe, persistent, or significantly interfere with
      daily life and functioning.
       
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
    • If there are thoughts of self-harm or suicide, immediate help is essential.
       
  • Physical symptoms
    • When physical symptoms are unexplained, and there is a concern that
      they may be related to mental health.
       
  • Concern from others
    • If friends, family, or colleagues express concern about your mental health.

Where to seek help and some mental health resources
 

Considerations:
  • Primary Care Physician: Start by consulting your primary care doctor, who can assess your symptoms, provide initial guidance, and make referrals if needed.
     
  • Mental Health Professionals: Consider seeing a mental health professional,
    such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, counselor, or therapist. They can offer
    therapy, diagnosis, and treatment options.
     
  • Helplines and Crisis Services: If you're in crisis or need immediate support,
    contact helplines like the distress like line or crisis text lines.
     
  • Support Groups: Support groups, both in-person and online, provide peer
    support and a safe space to discuss mental health concerns.
     
  • Community Mental Health Centers: Local mental health centers often offer
    a range of services, including therapy and counseling.
     

Where to seek mental health support
 

 
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