The Mental Health Podcast (Ontario Shores Communications)

“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. Almost all of the neurotransmitters in our brains are made in our gut. (Ever heard of a “gut-feeling”?) What we eat, and how we eat, matters to everything from depression to schizophrenia. Leading holistic nutritionist Joy McCarthy discusses the latest research on how we can use our diet as a means to improving our mental health.  She even reveals the order that you eat the food on your plate makes a big difference in controlling your blood sugar. 

Body and Soul - Upcoming episodes; 

Part 1 - Move it!

Part 2 – Sleep Smarter

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 can better cope with the news and seemingly being under attack.

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.

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 person who helps others become stronger.

This episode may contain discussions on mental health topics that could be triggering or distressing for some viewers. If you are in distress, call 9-8-8. Viewer discretion is advised.

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)

When it comes to New Year's Resolutions, we seldom think of making them for our kids, especially around their mental health. Child Psychologist Dr. Khush Amaria joins Kevin to talk about how new "habits" for our children that not only can be achievable, but that will give them coping lessons that will carry them into adulthood. Stay tuned at the end for our regular Coping Segment. 

“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 stress relievers. Physical activity improves sleep quality, which is crucial for maintaining mental well-being. Additionally, exercise fosters social interaction and provides a sense of accomplishment, reducing feelings of anxiety and depression. Guest Julie Thom is a Trauma Informed Movement Coach and shares what movements are best for your mental health. 

Body and Soul - Past and future episodes;

Part 1 - Feeding Your Mind!

Part 3 – Sleep Smarter (release date June 11)

It's supposed to be the "most wonderful time of year". For many, especially those living with depression disorders, it's a time of anxiety. Whether it's because of being lonely, money issues or struggling with family dynamics, some are left wishing for January 2nd to come so it can all be over. In this episode, Psychologist Dr. Lorraine Patterson talks about why we can't find the magic of the season and has some tips on coping with the holidays.  

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.  

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) 

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. 

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 this episode as well where Marcelle leads us in an "eyes open" meditation. 

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

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

It can have the same impact on your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Loneliness is a serious mental health issue, further complicated by the pandemic. Kevin's guests include social worker Loretta Karikari, from The Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, and Michael DiIorio, a Loneliness Life Coach.

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.  

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. 

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. 

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 they can get support. 

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 some good advice on getting ready to go back to school in a more mindful way.

When it comes to mental health, our youth are in big trouble. Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for kids aged 10 to 19 years.  Youth who need mental health services are often not well supported: less than 20 per cent receive appropriate treatment. Why is it worse for youth today than it was years ago? What can we do about it? What should parents know? That is the topic of this episode of the Mental Health Podcast. Kevin Frankish's guests include Stacey Beaveridge, who works with adolescents at Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health, and Mike Foreman, star of an award winning documentary called "When Hope Breaks Through". 

“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 mental health. Sleep guru Alanna McGinn has advice on getting that illusive sleep. 

What better place for a new podcast on mental health to begin than, well, the beginning. Dr Phil Klassen from Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences gives us the basics on depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. Also in this episode, Christina Fuda explains what Mental Health First Aid is and how you can use it with yourself and others. We also have what will be a recurring feature, "Coping", some quick advice and tips for dealing with your own mental health.

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.

As our population ages, the numbers of those living with dementia will increase right along. There is no cure and often the person's lifespan is only between 6 to 10 years. We rarely hear directly from those living with dementia exactly what it feels like. In this emotional episode, Bea Kraayenhof gives a first hand account of cognitive decline with messages for those diagnosed, their loved ones and for the public at large.