A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health

By: CMHA Kelowna and Jessica Samuels
Listen for free

  • Summary

  • A Way Forward podcast, presented by Beem Credit Union, examines the challenges that can wear down our individual and collective mental health. Host Jessica Samuels focusses on the stressors, the core issues and contributing factors, and the approaches and practices that can help address these issues. Listeners will leave feeling they have the information and tools to better manager their well-being and able to find...a way forward.
    © 2025 CMHA Kelowna and Jessica Samuels
    Show More Show Less
Hygiene & Healthy Living Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Social Sciences
Show More Show Less
Episodes
  • Episode 8: Mental Health in Heavy Times

    Episode 8: Mental Health in Heavy Times
    Feb 26 2025
    Welcome to Season 2 of A Way Forward, presented by Beem Credit Union. In this episode, hosts Jessica Samuels and CMHA Kelowna CEO Mike Gawliuk discuss strategies for managing mental health during turbulent times. With a 24-hour news cycle, social media, and ongoing global events, many people feel overwhelmed, anxious, and uncertain. Jessica and Mike explore how our bodies react to stress and share practical tips for maintaining mental well-being in the face of ongoing uncertainty.Key Discussion Points:1. How Are We Coping in a Heavy World?Mike and Jessica discuss their own experiences with stress and uncertainty.Acknowledging the collective fatigue from ongoing global and local crises.The importance of checking in with ourselves and recognizing signs of distress.2. The Impact of Constant Information IntakeThe human brain seeks information to create a sense of control, but too much exposure can be harmful.The physiological response to stress: fight-or-flight activation, increased adrenaline, and cortisol production.The concept of doomscrolling and how it can negatively reinforce anxiety and stress.The double-edged sword of seeking certainty through news consumption.3. Managing Information Intake for Mental Well-BeingSetting boundaries around news consumption: limiting screen time, turning off background news, and curating information sources.The benefits of reading news instead of watching video reports to reduce emotional impact.Establishing personal limits on conversations about distressing topics.Seeking alternative sources of joy and relaxation, such as nature, mindfulness, and exercise.4. Recognizing When Stress Becomes Too MuchHow to identify when normal stress levels turn into something more serious.Signs to watch for: prolonged changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and increased irritability.The importance of self-awareness and seeking support when needed.5. Practical Steps for Mental Health ManagementSetting boundaries with news consumption: opting for daily email digests instead of real-time updates.Engaging in mindfulness and physical activities to reduce stress levels.Seeking social support and setting personal boundaries in conversations.Understanding when professional help might be necessary and how to access it.Key Takeaways:It’s normal to feel overwhelmed by current events, but we can take control of how we engage with information.The physiological impact of chronic stress underscores the need for proactive mental health management.Simple adjustments—such as limiting news intake, practicing mindfulness, and recognizing stress signals—can significantly improve mental well-being.Seeking professional support is always an option if stress becomes overwhelming.**Resources Mentioned:Impacts of exposure to negative informationhttps://changemh.org/resources/news-consumption-and-your-mental-health/#:~:text=Exposure%20to%20negative%20events%20can,trigger%20a%20prolonged%20stress%20response.https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/mental-health/how-the-news-rewires-your-brain/https://growtherapy.com/blog/is-news-bad-for-mental-health/Fight or Flight Responsehttps://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-the-fight-or-flight-response-2795194https://hr.jhu.edu/wp-content/uploads/JHEAP_Negative-News-Coverage-and-Mental-Health.pdfManaging News Consumptionhttps://insidepsychotherapynyc.com/2024/07/16/navigating-anxiety-the-case-for-lowering-your-news-consumption-during-election-season/https://growtherapy.com/blog/is-news-bad-for-mental-health/https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/emotional-health/Ways-to-Cope-With-the-Newshttps://www.calm.com/blog/news-anxietyThank you for tuning in to A Way Forward Podcast! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and share it with others who may benefit. Stay tuned for more conversations on mental health in future episodes.Follow CMHA Kelowna:Website: CMHA KelownaInstagram: @cmhakelownaFacebook: CMHA KelownaA Way Forward Podcast is proudly presented by Beem Credit Union. BlueShore Financial, GFCU Savings, Gulf & Fraser, Interior Savings, and North Peace Savings are trade names of Beem Credit Union
    Show More Show Less
    24 mins
  • Episode 7: Loneliness

    Episode 7: Loneliness
    Dec 18 2024
    In Episode 7 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels sits down with CMHA Kelowna CEO, Mike Gawliuk to dive into the topic of loneliness—what it truly means, how it impacts us, and strategies to address it. They explore how loneliness isn’t just about being alone but can also occur within social groups where people feel disconnected. They also discuss its severe physical and mental health consequences, such as heightened risk of heart problems, depression, and even a shortened lifespan.The episode touches on loneliness in various contexts, including among seniors, Indigenous and LGBTQ+ populations, and the workplace. They also tackle the role of technology in fostering a false sense of connection and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our social lives. Mike emphasizes the importance of addressing loneliness as a societal issue and offers practical solutions, from building real-world connections to organizational strategies for fostering a culture of connection in the workplace.Key Discussion Points:Defining Loneliness:Loneliness is more than being alone; it’s an emotional experience tied to unmet needs in relationships.People can feel lonely even when surrounded by others if they lack meaningful connections.Health Impacts:Loneliness has been equated to smoking 15 cigarettes a day in terms of its effect on health.Physical consequences include increased blood pressure, heart problems, and a shorter lifespan.Mental health risks include anxiety, depression, and a negative impact on overall well-being.Groups at Higher Risk:Indigenous seniors: Impacted by racism, poverty, and historical oppression.LGBTQ+ individuals: More likely to live alone or experience social isolation.Workplace environments: Employees may feel lonely despite being physically surrounded by colleagues.The Role of Technology:Social media and digital interactions can create a perception of connection but often lack depth.Comparisons on social media can amplify feelings of isolation and inadequacy.Loneliness and the Pandemic:COVID-19 amplified loneliness through enforced social isolation.The long-term societal impacts are still being studied.Workplace Loneliness:Returning to the office doesn’t necessarily reduce loneliness.Building a culture of connection is essential, including socialization opportunities and understanding employees’ needs.Addressing Loneliness Through Connection:Strategies for individuals:Find community through shared interests or volunteering.Reconnect with family and friends beyond digital interactions.Strategies for organizations:Measure loneliness through surveys to identify and address gaps.Foster a culture of connection with meaningful social activities.Navigating Grief-Related Loneliness:Avoid self-imposed expectations about how grief should look.Accept support, engage in activities, and avoid prolonged isolation.Consider professional counseling for additional support.Actionable Takeaways:For Individuals: Build connections through community activities, shared interests, or volunteering. Avoid relying solely on digital interactions for connection.For Organizations: Prioritize creating a workplace culture of connection and measure loneliness among employees to tailor interventions.For All: Recognize loneliness as a significant health issue and take proactive steps to support those around you.**Resources**https://bc.cmha.ca/documents/coping-with-loneliness/https://www.cdc.gov/social-connectedness/improving/index.htmlhttps://www.cdc.gov/social-connectedness/promoting/index.htmlhttps://www.campaigntoendloneliness.org/marginalization-and-loneliness-among-sexual-minorities-how-are-they-linked/https://hbr.org/2024/11/were-still-lonely-at-workhttps://www.hrrv.org/blog/loneliness-griefs-unintended-guest/https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-happens-in-your-body-when-youre-lonely**General Mental Health Resources:**If you or someone you know is struggling, CMHA Kelowna's Find Help Now page has a list of emergency and non-emergency resources for individuals of any age. CMHA Kelowna - Find Help Now
    Show More Show Less
    25 mins
  • Episode 6: The State of Mental Health in Canada

    Episode 6: The State of Mental Health in Canada
    Dec 4 2024

    In Episode 6 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels sits down with Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, to discuss findings from the State of Mental Health in Canada report. They delve into the report’s key insights, the challenges facing mental health care in British Columbia, and the steps needed to address these issues. From the toxic drug crisis to housing affordability, this episode highlights the pressing need for systemic change while exploring innovative approaches that offer hope for the future.


    Key Topics Discussed:

    • Mental Health in BC:
      BC’s attempt to manage mental health care through a specialized ministry, rather than integrating it into the Ministry of Health, has been described as a "seven-year failed experiment." The challenges of this model and its impact on service delivery are unpacked.
    • Stigma and Discrimination in Mental Health:
      BC has the highest rates of stigma and discrimination related to mental health and substance use in Canada. Mike and Jessica explore the potential causes and implications of this troubling statistic.
    • The Toxic Drug Crisis:
      The ongoing opioid epidemic is discussed as a major issue in BC, underscoring the need for urgent action to reduce overdoses and provide support for substance users.
    • Mental Health Data and Measurement Gaps:
      Questions arise about the accuracy and validity of provincial mental health data. Mike explains how data inconsistencies complicate efforts to measure progress and allocate resources effectively.
    • Innovative Solutions in BC:
      The episode highlights programs like the PACT initiative (Peer Assisted Care Teams), which provides non-police responses to mental health crises. Originating in North and West Vancouver, this program has shown promising results and could expand to Kelowna.
    • Housing and Affordability:
      Housing affordability remains a critical issue in BC, with seniors and vulnerable populations increasingly affected. Despite recent investments, more action is needed to address homelessness and ensure affordable housing for all.
    • National Recommendations:
      The report calls for:
      • Legislating that 12% of provincial health spending be dedicated to mental health and substance use services.
      • Eliminating poverty, recognizing its direct connection to mental illness.
      • Collecting better data to improve service delivery and outcomes.

    Calls to Action:

    • Advocacy: Listeners are encouraged to advocate for increased mental health funding and policy changes.
    • Support Those Affected: Check in with your friends, family, and those struggling with mental health in your life.
    • Read the Report: Access the full State of Mental Health in Canada report here.

    **Resources:
    https://cmha.ca/what-we-do/policy-research/state-of-mental-health-in-canada/

    **General Mental Health Resources:**
    If you or someone you know is struggling, CMHA Kelowna's Find Help Now page has a list of emergency and non-emergency resources for individuals of any age. CMHA Kelowna - Find Help Now
    Show More Show Less
    36 mins

What listeners say about A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health

Average customer ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.

Audible.co.uk reviews

Amazon reviews
No Reviews are Available