The Mental Health Podcast

It is perhaps the most prevalent addiction in the world. A Canadian study has found that one-third of the world’s population may be at high risk for smartphone addiction. This addiction has been linked to worsening mental health and well-being, poorer sleep, and lower grades in teens. Seth Fletcher is an addiction counsellor who specializes in smartphone addiction and has great advice on how to un...

Nurses. They are the backbone of health care, standing on the front lines every day. National Nurses Week runs from May 12–18, and in this episode, we celebrate those working in mental health. Our guest, Nate Ballantyne, is more than a registered nurse—he’s also mentor, teacher, and role model.

In a flash, our world has become a lot more uncertain. World order, threats of a collapsing economy, friends become adversaries, adversaries become friends. With the news bombarding us hourly with the next crisis, it is hard not to be anxious. Our mental health is being tested to its limits. In this episode, we speak with two experts, a psychologist and a leading neuroscience researcher, on how we...

A new study from The University of Edinburgh shows that depression speeds up physical illness. We talk to one of the authors of the study to find out more. Also, a wellness expert tells us how just 5 minutes a day could help. Guests: Kelly Fleetwood/Study Co-author-University of Edenborough and Laurie Hales/Wellness Specialist-Ontario Shores

In the second part of our conversation, former Degrassi star Stacie Moana Mistysyn opens up about her journey of overcoming dark thoughts and the importance of focusing on mental health. She shares how she's learned to embrace "glimmers" — moments of positivity — as a powerful tool for her well-being.

Season 2, Episode 2—Stacie Moana Mistysyn was one of the stars of the Degrassi Street franchise, which critics call one of the greatest accomplishments in Canadian television. While her characters were working through serious adolescent issues on screen, behind the scenes, Stacie was living with depression and eating disorders. Discover the strength that lifted her from mental illness into a perso...

One of Canada’s best know sports broadcasters, and now mental health advocate, opens up about his own battle with depression including his darkest day.

A recent survey found that more than half of middle and high school students in Ontario say they’re experiencing a significant level of psychological distress. This is double the number from a decade ago. With limited resources for youth and long waiting lists, parents need to be a mental health advocate for their child or children. But how? Heather Carter is a mental health consultant and has som...

Meditating. Tried it. Didn't work. This is part 2 of our episode on Meditating.  Mindfulness coach Marcelle Hutchins from West Hollywood, California, helps us give meditation another try with a different perspective. Marcelle leads us in an "eyes open" meditation. 

Meditating. Tried it. Didn't work. OK. Maybe you put too much pressure on yourself. We know meditating can reduce anxiety, improve overall health and increase social connections. But still, a restless mind can be discouraging. Marcelle Hutchins is a mindfulness coach from West Hollywood, California, who helps people try meditation again, with a different perspective. Be sure to check out part 2 of...

Here is another in our week of Mindful Minutes hosted by our Psychologists at Ontario Shores. Each morning, get a 2 minute inspirational message designed to start your day off in a positive way.  This episode; Dr. Lorraine Patterson talks about Eyes Wide Open Mindfulness. 

Here is another in our week of Mindful Minutes hosted by our Psychologists at Ontario Shores. Each morning, get a 2 minute inspirational message designed to start your day off in a positive way.  This episode; Dr. Karen Roberts let's us know that being in the present can have a lighter side to it.  

Here is another in our week of Mindful Minutes hosted by our Psychologists at Ontario Shores. Each morning, get a 2 minute inspirational message designed to start your day off in a positive way.    This episode; Dr. Laruen Flavelle has a quick method to reduce tension right now.  

Here is another in our week of Mindful Minutes hosted by our Psychologists at Ontario Shores. Each morning, get a 2 minute inspirational message designed to start your day off in a positive way.  This episode; Dr. Katie Stewart suggests a slight change in your thoughts about what you have to do today. 

We begin a week of Mindful Minutes hosted by our Psychologists at Ontario Shores. Each morning, get a 2 minute inspirational message designed to start your day off in a positive way.  This episode; Dr Vanessa Epp reminding you to take time to breathe. 

It can be just what the doctor ordered when it comes to working on your depression, self-confidence! The doctor in this case is Dr. Ivan Joseph , an expert at coaching and developing individual confidence.   

“Body and Soul” is a 3 part series confirming the fact that our physical health and mental health are one and the same. While mindfulness is essential to healing anxiety and depression, good food, exercise and better sleep are instrumental to improving our mental health. Part 3 - Better Sleep We all know it. A good night's sleep makes us feel refreshed and energetic. It also is vital to good menta...

“Body and Soul” is a 3 part series confirming the fact that our physical health and mental health are one and the same. While mindfulness is essential to healing anxiety and depression, good food, exercise and better sleep are instrumental to improving our mental health. Part 2 - Move it! Movement of your body enhances mental health by releasing endorphins, which act as natural mood lifters and st...

“Body and Soul” is a 3 part series confirming the fact that our physical health and mental health are one and the same. While mindfulness is essential to healing anxiety and depression, good food, exercise and better sleep are instrumental to improving our mental health.  Part 1 – Feeding Your Mind Just what does your stomach have to do with your mental health? Everything! Literally, everything. A...

There are more than 8 million Caregivers in Canada, and that number is rising fast. They save the healthcare system more than $32 billion a year but get little compensation in return. If it weren't for them, the entire Canadian healthcare system would collapse in less than a day. More than half report they are at or near burnout. Our guests discuss how Caregivers don't have to be alone and where t...

This is the first of a recurring segment, Ask The Pharmacist. What does my mental health medication actually do for me? How do I know if it’s the right dosage or even the right type? Our pharmacist, who specializes in mental health meds has the answers. By the way, if you have questions about your prescription, send us an email thementalhealthpodcast@ontarioshores.ca .

While there are no easy fixes for depression or anxiety, there are some hacks to affect quick, temporary change. From manipulating what is sometimes called the "soul" nerve to twisting a certain finger to change your mood. This episode has bio-hacks for your sleep, what you eat and how you move. 

The final episode in a three part series dealing with addictions. Kevin’s guest is Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. He discusses the impact addiction has on our society especially the fact that it is connected with 70% of crime in Ontario. With a background in treating addictions, he has some interesting insights into how we should be dealing with it.

He is the mayor of Ontario's 6th largest city. That is a long way from where he came from. Homeless and addicted to drugs and booze, Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter not only cleaned himself up, he now leads the fight to help others who were just like him. In this episode, he opens up about his journey from Rock Bottom Right to The Top. (This is the second in a 3 part series on addiction)

He helped reimagine morning radio, listened to by millions. However, Humble Howard had a secret...an alcohol addiction. Without telling anyone, he quit the bottle 8 years ago and has been sober ever since. In this episode, he opens up with his deepest dive to date into his addiction. (Part 1 of a 3 part podcast series on addiction)