Health Promotion, Mental Health and Addictions

We’re equally as happy. The spotlight on the important of mental health, stigma, and language has been in the media and we look forward to the shift as we continue to work towards making Nova Scotia a better and healthier place.

MindWell-U is officially launching two monthly programs, and new weekly classes! For those of you that are familiar with MindWell’s Studio Be, you’ll be delighted to hear that once again, these new programs have applications and benefits across industries and job functions, from executives to the front lines. The question is, are you ready to make a commitment to learning the skills you need to excel in both work and in life?... If so, choose your classes and register now: www.app.mindwellu.com/dropin Don’t yet have an account? Sign Up Here: https://app.mindwellu.com/novascotia

When the Nova Scotia Government announced the state of emergency on March 22, 2020, Nova Scotia Health’s Mental Health and Addictions Program shifted 50 per cent of outpatient visits to be delivered virtually (by phone or video platform ) to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Virtual care has been shown to be as satisfactory as in-person services for clients, patients and their families; however, some patients do require in-person appointments to best meet their needs.

Public Health received reports from two community partners today that a substance being sold as cocaine in the Halifax Regional Municipality and Sydney, Cape Br...eton areas may have been contaminated with an unknown opioid. The substance produced opioid-like effects and required naloxone to reverse the effects. With the possibility of substance contamination, it’s important to reduce the risk of overdose: -- Don’t use alone, if possible. Keep a distance of 2 meters and respect public health measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19 if using substances with others. If you have to use alone, call a trusted support person and let them know you are using alone and provide them with your location. -- Start with a test dose. Start low, go slow. -- Have naloxone available, even if you aren’t intentionally using opioids. Naloxone is available for free from most community pharmacies and other community locations, including needle distribution and disposal organizations. For more information about where to get a free naloxone kit and how to use it, visit http://www.nsnaloxone.com/ -- Call 911 in the event of an overdose. Know your rights under the Good Samaritan Act http://www.nsnaloxone.com/good-samaritan-act.html

Great tips from our friends at Canadian Centre on Substance Use / Centre canadien sur les dépendances on starting your new year ok with some healthy choices.

After a challenging year in Nova Scotia, the Cape Breton Psychiatry Group were compelled to bring some joy to the holiday season. This FREE online event is hosted by Jenn Sheppard with performances from well-known Cape Breton musicians Aaron Lewis, Kimberley Fraser, Jordan Musycsyn with Margaret MacPherson, RoSa (Jenifer and Emily Dingwall), Emma Stevens, Keith Mullins, and upcoming indie pop artist Elyse Aeryn. Check out the event below for more information and how to t...une in tonight for some free PPE positive psychological energy! Nova Scotia Health https://fb.me/e/gM5WitXy5

We have recently received several warnings of contaminated drugs in our province. These warnings were issued under the province's new Drug Harms Alert program, which the health authority said in an email was "designed to establish a flexible, low-barrier, community-driven process for communicating unexpected drug use-related harms observed in the community." Read the article below to hear from advocates, who are concerned for the health and safety of Nova Scotians, and how t...his new Drug Alert System can help. https://bit.ly/2MLacyo

Today is World Cancer Day. There are multiple ways to lower our cancer risk, including stopping the use of tobacco and reducing our alcohol intake. These are small steps to a better, healthier you.

Did you know? A drug alert system has launched to keep Nova Scotians safe.

DRUG ALERT: please be advised. See below for more information. Visit www.nsnaloxone.com to learn where you can get your free kit.

The end of the year is a time of year for remembrance. We take stock of where we came from, and have a moment to think about where we are going, as we pursue the future with hope. May your new year be all that you hope for, and may it be sprinkled with health and happiness. Happy New Year!

DRUG ALERT: Please see below.

New Years Eve is around the corner, what will your resolution be? Practicing mindfulness is great way to start the New Year by de-stressing, easing anxiety, and keeping calm to see what the New Year has to bring! Sign up today through Nova Scotia Mental Health and Addictions at https://app.mindwellu.com/novascotia

Important reminder that Take Home Naloxone Kits are available, free of charge, at your community pharmacy. Visit www.nsnaloxone.com for more information or to find a location near you.

Did you hear? There's a new online tool offered to all Canadians. It's called Breaking Free. This free and confidential app is designed to increase your wellness and sense of control over alcohol or drugs, or anything else that may be causing you difficulties. It is available in English and French. English: https://wellness.breakingfreeonline.ca/home/en... Francais: https://wellness.breakingfreeonline.ca/home/fr

We would like to share our program update with you all. For more information on programs, services, and how to reach us, visit: www.MHAhelpNS.ca

As you move through the MindWell Challenge, you’ll see yourself creating positive habits with mindfulness to help you get through your days. The MindWell Challenge has a community board for users to share their experiences throughout the challenge. See what Sean had to say at his 14 day mark. Join Sean and other MindWell users today by signing up at https://app.mindwellu.com/novascotia

Today's e-mental health tool feature is Therapy Assistance Online (TAO). TAO is an online library of engaging, interactive programs to learn life skills and to help you bounce back from disappointments or stumbling blocks in life. As you watch videos and engage with our interactive components, you'll gain the knowledge, self-awareness, and skills you need to achieve your goals. You can complete TAO at your own pace, whether that's just one session a day, or perhaps two whole... modules. It's entirely up to you. To register for TAO, visit: https://taoconnect.org/what_is_tao/ns/

A very important reminder! Check it out.

Please be aware of recent findings from the RCMP. Read below.

Language matters. Please be aware and considerate of the terms and words you use. #NAAW

Today's e-mental health tool feature is ICAN (Conquer Anxiety and Nervousness). This program provides life-skills to overcome anxiety, help with depression and cope with major life stressors. Those who stick with the program and complete it report life-changing results with improved daily performance, social and family relationships and increased confidence. To register for ICAN, visit: https://login.strongestfamilies.com/folder/1963/

Share the Facts: Cannabis use is on the rise among Canadians 65+. CCSA has A Guide to Cannabis for Older Adults: https://www.ccsa.ca/guide-cannabis-older-adults #NAAW

Wishing you & your's a wonderful Holiday Season. Stay healthy & stay safe!

This week is National Addictions Awareness Week and the Health Promotion team continues to work to eliminate the stigma associated with addictions. Addiction does not discriminateit affects all walks of life. We will be sharing articles, stats, and ways you can help address stigma all week.

The holidays are a time of celebrations, which sometimes include alcohol. Go into the holidays with the right information on alcohol. Take this holiday low-risk drinking quiz! https://ccsa.ca/alcohol-quiz

We would like to share a message written by our friend, Louise Bradley, President & CEO of the Mental Health Commission of Canada Commission de la santé mentale du Canada. Pause, give thanks, and remember: Find new ways to pay tribute this Remembrance Day. To help support veterans and their families, Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) has launched a phone service offering them round-the-clock access to a mental health professional by calling 1-800-268-7708 (learn more on the VA...C website). Additional mental health resources for veterans can be found on the legion’s website. For more of Louise’s message, click here: https://www.mentalhealthcommission.ca//pause-give-thanks-a

In anticipation of National Addictions Awareness Week, check out Canadian Centre on Substance Use / Centre canadien sur les dépendances 's video on the importance of language, education and awareness. https://bit.ly/35Fc3vL

Did you know that we offer free online e-Mental Health and Addiction tools? We'd like to share Mindwell-U with you today. We have partnered with MindWell-U, a Canadian health-tech firm committed to enriching lives, communities and organizations via mindfulness. Mindwell-U has a few options, the 30 Day Mindfulness Challenge is an online, evidence-based curriculum shown by university researchers to lower stress, increase resilience and improve well-being, performance and optim...ism. There are also recorded webinars along with live sessions where you can tune into ...all for free! This tool is jam packed with informative tips on how to keep well. To register, visit: https://app.mindwellu.com/novascotia

Today is Transgender Day of Remembrance. An annual observance on November 20, that honours the memory of the transgender people whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence. These acts of violence are due to stigma and discrimination against their identity and community. Individuals who identify as transgender experience stigma, discrimination and violence, and everyday transphobia. These experiences of discrimination and violence can result in exclusion from social spaces, unemployment, avoidance of health care, and poor mental health. For more information, visit: https://www.glaad.org/tdor

The holiday season can be a stressful and overwhelming time of year. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the holidays, here are some tips to help manage your mental health and holiday stress levels.

Whether it is in person or virtually, we are here to help. https://bit.ly/32UHSPv

We know the holidays can be a tough time. Our Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line is available 24 hours 7 days a week at 1-888-429-8167. Our Intake Line is available weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The toll-free number is: 1-855-922-1122.... Please call us if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health and/or addiction concern. For other program and service information and additional resources, please visit: www.MHAhelpNS.ca Nova Scotia Health

Give the gift of mindfulness this year, invite a buddy to sign up for the MindWell Challenge this holiday season and start your journey together. Sign up today and invite a buddy to join you at https://app.mindwellu.com/novascotia

World Suicide Prevention Day is a chance for everyone to join us in promoting understanding about suicide : those impacted by a suicide attempt or loss, family or friends, charitable organizations, professionals, politicians, volunteers, and community members. Every year on September 10, people in over 50 countries connect to Work Together to Prevent Suicide. Visit: https://suicideprevention.ca/WSPD for more information.... Dont forget, our Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 1-888-429-8167.

Get started on a month of mindfulness! Sign up for MindWellU and the 30-day MindWell Challenge today to enter the New Year with ease. You can sign up for free at https://app.mindwellu.com/novascotia

This year back to school looks a little different. Here are a few ways to help the children & adolescents in your life!

"While Dr. Keith Dobson doesn’t have a miracle cure for the holiday blues, he’s got a prescription for improving our outlook: We need to manage expectations." Click the link to read more on how to beat those holiday blues, by being kind to yourself and others: https://bit.ly/34eIMH7

With the long weekend upon us, please keep the Low Risk Drinking Guidelines in mind. @Canadian Centre on Substance Use / Centre canadien sur les dpendances has developed a great graphic outlining best practices for setting drink limits and when not to drink alcohol. Check out these tips for safer and healthier drinking.

Are you heading back to university? Do you know someone who is? It is an emotional and stressful time for most, but more so this year. Healthy Minds NS offers a variation of online mental health resources to complement counselling services available on campuses throughout the province. https://healthymindsns.ca/

Check out this free webinar that is coming up this Thursday.

Hey parents and guardians! Check out this webinar series.

We would like to congratulate April Crowley and the Mental Health team at Inverness Consolidated Hospital! They received an AA Munroe NS Healthcare Hero award. Click the link below to learn more about the award and to read the nomination. https://www.aamunro.com/stories/april-crowley/

We'd like to share a new program that has launched recently. The Well-being Course is an interactive, online course available through the WELL CENTRAL platform, available for anyone who wants to improve and protect their mental health and well-being. The Well-being Course is for anyone who is dealing with stress, anxiety, low mood or other life challenges and would like to enhance their mental health and well-being.... This strengths-based Course guides each learner on their own personal journey toward improved well-being. Learners set their own goals and learn at their own pace. Visit Well Central and access the Well-being Course at www.wellcentral.ca

New research from Dalhousie University has found that, on average, participants who engaged in strict self-isolation at the onset of the pandemic consumed 20 per cent more cannabis compared to those who didnt.

Have you checked out our COVID-19 Hub? We've put together some important information, tips, and tools to help you during the pandemic. Our 'Staying Well in Stressful Times' webinar series and our online mental health and addictions services can also be found there. ... https://mha.nshealth.ca/en/coronavirus

Today is International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD). Globally, each year, IOAD aims to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of drug-related death. We encourage you to watch this short film, One Decision. It is the heartfelt personal stories of people affected by opioid use. Youll learn about the devastation, tragedy, and hope that resulted from their experiences. Their journeys will inspire you to make more thoughtful decisions about your future or open your ...eyes to the world of addiction. https://www.youtube.com/watch See more

Check out the post below in regards to youth vaping. There is a great list of rearouces for parents, guardians and teachers.

Countdown to #IOAD: Who is your kit for? Remember: Take Home Naloxone kits are free of charge.... https://vimeo.com/300496867

We began offering MindWellU as an e-Mental Health tool for Nova Scotians to use when they need it back in April 2020. Here are what some of our Nova Scotia users had to say about MindWellU on the community board! Sign up today at https://app.mindwellu.com/novascotia and join the conversation.

Countdown to #IOAD: Naloxone is a life saving medication called an opioid antagonist, which is used to counter the effects of opioid overdose. The Take Home Naloxone Program offers free kits to all Nova Scotians. You do not need a prescription, you do not need a health card. All you need to do is visit your local community organization or pharmacy to receive training and your kit. ... To find a participating location, visit: http://www.nsnaloxone.com/where-to-get-one.html

This month, we’re shining a spotlight on MindWell-U, one of our virtual tools. Stay tuned to learn more about this tool as we share some unique features, testimonials, and tips on staying well and calm during the busy holiday season.

Countdown to #IOAD: Do you know what an overdose is? Did you know you can overdose on more than just opioids? Check out these great fact sheets on Alcohol, Depressants, Opioids, and Stimulants to learn about each drug, the signs associated with an overdose, and what you can do to help. ... For more information on overdose basics, visit: https://www.overdoseday.com/overdose-basics/

Wonderful news to hear! A big kudos to the team. We’re proud to have them a part of our program!

Know a first responder? Share this new resource with them!

Countdown to #IOAD: We would like to share some community International Overdose Awareness Day events happening throughout Nova Scotia within the next couple of days. The ALLY Centre of Cape Breton, Northern Healthy Connections Society, POSSE Project

With the increase of COVID-19 cases in our province, we thought it we would share our 'Coping with COVID-19' tips with you. For more tips and information on staying well, visit our website at www.MHAhelpNS.ca .

International Overdose Awareness Day (#IOAD) is a global event held on 31 August each year and aims to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death. It also acknowledges the grief felt by families and friends remembering those who have died or had a permanent injury as a result of drug overdose. IOAD spreads the message that overdose death is preventable.Thousands of people die each year from drug overdose. They come from all walks of life.... We will be sharing information all week about overdose awareness, overdose prevention, and local community events happening in relation to #IOAD. Visit: https://www.overdoseday.com/ for more information.

Share the Facts: 66.2% of Canadian adults participated in some form of gambling in 2018. For more information on gambling, at risk gambling, or problem gambling visit: https://gamblingsupportnetwork.ca/ #NAAW

If you think youre struggling you feel like you might be struggling Youre not sure? Then please reach out and call us. Thats what were here for. You can also visit MHAhelpns.ca, there are free online tools to help you with every day coping. The website offers information on all our programs, community supports, and information on mental health and addictions.

Check this out!

Some of you may know our colleague, Laura. Laura is passionate about many things in her career, but harm reduction is one of her top interests. Check out this article explaining the benefits of harm reduction, how it can impact our communities, and how you can make a difference. ... http://www.nshealth.ca//mental-health-and-addictions-healt

A new month means new programs hosted by Adolescent Outreach Services! These programs are offered in the Eastern Zone.

Share the Facts: This year, between January and March 1,018 opioid deaths occurred. 96% were unintentional. Take Home Naloxone kits are free of charge in Nova Scotia. To find a participating community pharmacy in your area, visit: http://www.nsnaloxone.com/where-to-get-one.html #NAAW

Have you heard? We are expanding our reach with our new website with offering content and tools in French. Visit: www.MHAhelpNS.ca

Did you know that CAMH has a library of online courses and tutorials? It all starts with knowledge. Use this series of free online tutorials as a starting point for learning about mental health and addictions. https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-health-101

Share the Facts: Health Canada has a toolkit for service providers to support people who use drugs to physically distance, self-isolate and stay safe. https://www.canada.ca//substance-use/toolkit-substance-use #NAAW

Often, people who use substances report a loss of social connection and supports and an increase in isolation, fear and anxiety due to the COVID-19 pandemic: https://www.ccsa.ca/impacts-covid-19-pandemic-people-who-us #NAAW

Check out these peer support groups hosted by our friends at Peer Support Nova Scotia. Peer support and connection is an important part of a recovery journey, along as a great support for families.

We ask that you stay safe during the weekend. The Low Risk Drinking Guidelines were put in place to keep us safe and healthy.

Have you heard about our At Work/Au travail program? Spanning from Halifax Regional Municipality to Digby County, we connect unemployed and underemployed people... living with mental health or addictions issue that has affected their employability by connecting them with meaningful employment supports, helping make Nova Scotia a diversified, equitable place for all people to work. Learn more at: https://novascotia.cmha.ca/all-/at-work-au-travail-project/

We are always here to help. https://vimeo.com/404985702 Call us, our Intake Line is 1-855-922-1122. The Provincial Mental Health and Addiction Crisis Line is 1-888-429-8167.... Or visit us: www.MHAhelpNS.ca

#ICYMI Nova Scotia Health rolled out the first phase of a new program earlier this year that allows emergency department staff to provide patients with take-hom...e naloxone kits in the Western Zone (Annapolis Valley, South Shore and South West Nova Scotia). Robert Zwicker, director of health services in the Western Zone, says this program provides an extra layer of patient support by presenting another opportunity to access naloxone kits. In some communities, our emergency departments are the only 24-hour facilities. We know the emergency department isnt necessarily the first spot to access a kit, but we are happy to be part of the availability for people who cant get one because of reduced hours in a pharmacy. Learn more: http://www.nshealth.ca//take-home-naloxone-program-expands #NSHAAGM Health Promotion, Mental Health and Addictions

We have gotten questions regarding which of our programs are available. We encourage you to call our Intake Line, they will help guide you to accessing the service and/or program you require. Our e-Mental Health and Addiction tools are self-referral and you can register online. Visit: https://mha.nshealth.ca/en/coronavirus

Check out this great article about how Naloxone saved a life: https://bit.ly/3hz9X3L Naloxone kits are available free of charge in Nova Scotia to anyone at risk of opioid overdose. Family, friends those who may witness an overdose can also get a kit. You do not need a prescription for a kit and the program is confidential. Learn more here: http://www.nsnaloxone.com/

Check out these great tips for preparing for your upcoming Mental Health and Addictions appointment, whether it is in person or online. Dont forget to visit our website for more COVID-19 resources and tips, along with information on our services and programs: www.MHAhelpNS.ca

Do you journal? Have you considered it? It may be a way to get all of your thoughts, questions, and ideas down in one spot. Think of it as a release!

A reminder that our Provincial Crisis Line is always open and always available for all Nova Scotians. Call us if you or someone you love is experiencing mental health and/or addictions crisis.

Have you tuned into our webinar series called, Staying Well in Stressful Times, hosted by Dr. Jackie Kinley? These webinars are available for everyone, free of charge. In these webinars Dr. Kinley shared useful and helpful information on healthy and adaptive ways to reduce stress, deal with emotions, and remain connected in our personal and work place relationships.... There are three webinars: - Staying well during stressful times: Recognizing and managing stress (https://vimeo.com/423242401) - Dealing with emotions through stressful times: Fear, anger, and loss (https://vimeo.com/423242419) - Working together through stressful times: Staying connected in relationships (https://vimeo.com/423242388)

Our Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line and our Intake Line continue to be available for all Nova Scotians. Please call us if you or someone you love is experiencing any mental health and/or addiction concerns. For other program and service information and additional resources, please visit: http://MHAhelpNS.ca

To cap off our e-Mental Health and Addictions series, wed like to share our new and improved website. It offers more free resources and tools for Nova Scotians. You can find all the services and programs we offer, where they are offered and how to get in touch. You can explore all these features by visiting: https://mha.nshealth.ca/en/resources-and-tools

The third e-Mental Health and Addictions tool we offer is TAO (Therapy Assistance Online). TAO is an online library of engaging, interactive programs to learn life skills and to help you bounce back from disappointments or stumbling blocks in life. As you watch videos and engage with our interactive components, youll gain the knowledge, self-awareness, and skills you need to achieve your goals. You can complete TAO at your own pace, whether thats just one session a day, or... perhaps two whole modules. Its entirely up to you. To register for TAO, visit: https://taoconnect.org/what_is_tao/ns/ https://vimeo.com/400753373

Next up on our online Mental Health and Addictions tools is ICAN (Conquer Anxiety and Nervousness), presented by Strongest Families Institute. ICAN provides life-skills to overcome anxiety, help with depression and cope with major life stressors. Those who stick with the program and complete it report life-changing results with improved daily performance, social and family relationships and increased confidence. To register for ICAN or submit a referral, visit: https://login.strongestfamilies.com/folder/1963/

Did you know we offer three different Mental Health and Addictions tools online? These tools are great to help you or someone you love cope day to day or to simply stay well. Well start with introducing MindwellU. MindwelU is pleased to offer free mindfulness training to Nova Scotiana. There is also the 30 Day Mindfulness Challenge, which is an online, evidence-based curriculum shown by university researchers to lower stress, increase resilience and improve well-being, ...performance and optimism. To register or for more information, visit: https://app.mindwellu.com/novascotia Check out a snippet of one of the timely sessions offered by MindwellU: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4iZMnPGYcM

We are proud to share that this wonderful program is celebrating 25 years of helping Nova Scotians with their mental health. To learn more about the Nova Scotia Early Psychosis Program, check out the article below.

As we have mentioned before, Nova Scotia Health Authoritys Mental Health and Addictions Program continues to offer services to Nova Scotians through these times. Check out the latest update from our program. For more information on our services, programs, and online tools, visit: www.MHAhelpNS.ca

There are thousands of mental health and addictions professionals who provide support, programs, and services to Nova Scotians across the province. You’re not alone. We’re here to help. https://vimeo.com/404985702

The Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For other program and service information and additional resources, please visit: http://MHAhelpNS.ca

When it comes to mental health and/or addiction, there is a powerful tool that is often over looked. This tool is peer support. Peer Support Nova Scotia offers multiple groups. Visit their Facebook page for more information or to register.

Now that you may be attending some appointments in person, or online, we thought we would share some tips on how to prepare for your upcoming appointment. For more information in regards to Mental Health and Addictions and COVID-19, visit: https://mha.nshealth.ca/en/coronavirus We have also included these infographics in French as we feel it's important information for all Nova Scotians (they are located on our COVID-19 page).

Did you know that you have instant access to Mental Health and Addictions tools? Our online mental health and addictions tools are free and available 24/7. To register, follow these links: ... MindwellU: https://app.mindwellu.com/novascotia TAO: https://taoconnect.org/what_is_tao/ns/ ICAN: https://login.strongestfamilies.com/folder/1963/ These tools are to help Nova Scotians, and we are happy to offer them.

Our Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line is available 24 hours 7 days a week at 1-888-429-8167. Our Intake Line is available weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The toll-free number is: 1-855-922-1122. Please call us if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health and/or addiction concern.... For other program and service information and additional resources, please visit: www.MHAhelpNS.ca See more

Have you visited our website? You can find information on programs, services, community resources, and more. Also, you can sign up to use our e-Mental Health and Addiction tools. www.MHAhelpNS.ca ... https://vimeo.com/429690471

On this fall Friday night, grab a cup of tea, get cozy, and tune into this short, but interesting TedTalk by Dr. Jessica Dere. Dr. Jessica Dere explains how culture makes a difference when thinking about mental health and mental illness. Across mental health research, clinical care and teaching, there are profound rewards to be had by truly understanding individuals in context. https://www.youtube.com/watch

In recognition of mental health awareness week October 4-10th, the Public Health Agency of Canada has developed a new infographic on Canadians and Mental Health. This infographic is the first to present information on the prevalence of mental illness in Canada using data from the Canadian Chronic Disease Surveillance System (CCDSS). Visit our website to learn about the services and programs that are available to you: www.MHAhelpNS.ca

Peer Support Nova Scotia 's Thursday night support group ‘From Recovery to Discovery’ is at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom for anyone affected by any mental health challenge. To join go to: www.ssns.ca

Check out this great news!

Are you curious about peer support? Tune into Peer Support Nova Scotia’s session to find out what it’s all about. Or if you’re unable to join in, send them a message or e-mail! Peer support is an essential part of the journey to recovery and general positive mental wellness.

A friendly reminder that our website, www.MHAhelpNS.ca is full of information on mental health, addictions, our services and programs, and community resources. Our Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7, call us if you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health and/or addictions concern. We’re here to help.

Today is World Mental Health Day. the World Health Organization will, for the first time ever, host a global online advocacy event on mental health. At this eventthe Big Event for Mental Healthworld leaders, mental health experts and celebrity guests will join WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, to tell the world what we can all do to improve our mental health and how we can help make sure that quality mental health care is available to everyone who needs ...it. Click the link below to learn more and how to tune in! https://www.who.int//defau/the-big-event-for-mental-health

To wrap up our series of articles this week, meet Laura Miller. She is the coordinator of the Bloom Program. Read more on Laura, the Bloom Program, and it's important role in our communities: https://www.nshealth.ca//mental-illness-awareness-week-blo By creating connections with people, you’re going to promote wellness. And it doesn’t need to be a major intervention that creates that connection; it can be as simple as someone coming in every day for their methadone, and y...ou ask them what book they’re reading, and you get a daily update on their reading status. ... That connection is the thing that the patient takes home with them and promotes their wellness almost better than any other intervention. Learn more about the Bloom Program: https://bloomprogram.ca/

Another one of our awesome colleagues! Liane is a voice for the 2SLGBTQ+ community and shares her thoughts on the struggles this community has faced in the past, and especially recently with the COVID pandemic.

Our colleague Livinus took some time to share his thoughts about stigma, culture, and men's mental health. Read the article below.

We would like to share one of the "Faces" that make up Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health's Faces Campaign for #MIAW Karandeep Gill has struggled with mental health issues since she was 15. At age 24 she was correctly diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type after being hospitalized seven times over the previous decade. Following her last hospitalization for severe paranoia and visual hallucinations, she followed an intensive inpatient and outp...atient recovery program that helped her cope. Karandeep shares her recovery journey through talks and her mental health awareness Instagram account (@livinginpeacee_), inspiring others to know that they are not alone in this battle. Tune in to her story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x55OeWew4dw&feature=emb_logo

This week is Mental Illness Awareness Week. The theme this year is There is no health without mental health. and we support that fully. It is often said that first voice narrative is what people are drawn to most, what they learn most from. This year, the faces of Mental Illness share their struggles and their journey to mental wellness. Click the link below to watch their videos. ... We will be sharing articles, statistics, and videos that will hopefully encourage you to take action.

You are not alone. We are here to help.

We have developed a hub where you can find lots of information in relation to COVID-19, Mental Health and Addiction, and keeping well. There are infographics, webinar series, and links to our e-Mental Health and Addiction tools. Most of this information is available in French. ... https://mha.nshealth.ca/en/coronavirus

We are proud to be an ally to the The ALLY Centre of Cape Breton. We are happy to see more of these kiosks around the CBRM!

Cannabis smoke contains many of the same chemicals (toxins, irritants and carcinogens) as tobacco smoke. Learn the whole story on the effects of #cannabis smoking and #vaping: https://bit.ly/39A2nD7

As some services are being re-introduced, we thought we would share some tips on how to prepare for your upcoming appointment. We have also included these infographics in French as we feel it's important information for all Nova Scotians. For more information in regards to Mental Health and Addictions and COVID-19, visit: https://mha.nshealth.ca/en/coronavirus

While re-developing our website, we wanted to ensure that anyone who visited our website was able to find the information they were looking for. Our wizard tool guides you on a personalized journey. By answering a few short questions about your interest in visiting our website, you will be able to access free resources and tools that can help you (or someone you care for) manage your well-being or help you to the next step in recovery. Check out the screen shots of the wizard tool:

Peer Support Nova Scotia is offering virtual peer support groups, including; - Adult mental health - Youth mental health - Addictions ... Benefits of the groups include connecting with peers, with similar lived experience, in a welcoming, non-judgmental environment facilitated by our experienced Peer Supporters. To register or for more information, e-mail them at [email protected]. Did we mention these groups are all free?! Peer Supporters have the experience and are willing to help you or someone you care about.