Kelly Mental Health
1216 Dawson Road P7G1H7 Thunder Bay, ON, Canada

This is a must read article if you haven’t already. Check it out during your morning tea or coffee. Languishing is a sense of stagnation and emptiness. It feels as if you’re muddling through your days, looking at your life through a foggy windshield. And it might be the dominant emotion of 2021. - Adam Grant We’re interested to know your thoughts and opinions below. Does this resonate with you? Let’s talk it out below.

Just your gentle Tuesday Tidbit Sometimes we focus all of our attention in the wrong places. We become consumed by these things and it can be harmful to our mental wellness without us even realizing it. Take a minute, take a step back, and evaluate where your body and mind are being drawn to right now. Is it a healthy place?

In any relationship, it is important to consider how open and transparent you may want to be within that relationship. Keep in mind that privacy and secrecy are not the same things. Ultimately, it is imperative to respect the transparency and privacy needs of both yourself, your partner, and all others in your life.

We often talk about coping mechanisms for anxiety and depression, but we sometimes forget to discuss the response. How you respond to someone is very important. Sometimes, people can say the wrong things when all they are trying to do is help. Keep in mind that everyone handles things in their own way. Be gentle and be kind. Tell us what works best for you when you feel anxious below.

5 Years. 60 Months. 260 Weeks. 1,825 Days. 43,817 Hours.... 2,629,038 Minutes. 157,742,310 Seconds And still counting... Thank you all for being apart of our journey of growth, dedication, and hard work. Starting KMH is one of the best things I have ever done. In just a few years, we are being recognized more often in the city for the work we do with individuals and families. I have learned that opportunities are there if you’re ready and willing to bet on yourself and the fire that burns within. I’ve also learned that some opportunities will veer you off track, and you must viciously guard your time and energy. When I started Kelly Mental Health, I wanted to help people in a big way. I wanted to resolve the problems in our city, and the way that made most sense was to start with individuals, because one person can change the lives of everyone around them. I can hardly wait to see what the future has in store for us. - CEO Linda Kelly, MSW, RSW.

Happy #wellnesswednesday everyone! We would like to introduce Margo Ayoub, MSW, RSW, who has been with us for sometime now. Margo is a Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, with years of experience. Her areas of interest include grief and loss, addictions, and mental health. She has worked throughout Northern Ontario to support grieving families of MMIWG, and in clinical settings working with clients in the areas of mental health and addiction. Often, people dealing with issues... such as these can feel isolated and alone in their struggle. Using a trauma informed and client centered approach, Margo strives to provide a culturally safe and compassionate environment so my clients feel supported as they explore their issues and challenges. If you would like to book with Margo to start your wellness journey, please call us or book online today! See more

Just your friendly Tuesday reminder.

Too soon? Did the weekend just fly by or did it seem like it took forever? How is your mental health doing during this lockdown? Let us know below.

Weekend Vibes! Put the phones down and spend time with the family, children or yourself. Get outdoors and go for a walk, go sliding, snowshoeing. Relax, read a book, try a face mask, play board games or cards. Have a fun and safe weekend without technology. Can you do it? Try it!

Please make note that our office will be closed on the following days. Make sure to make a mental wellness plan for yourself this holiday season. If you need to talk to someone, contact us today to book your appointment. Let’s talk

New Episode Alert! In episode 3, CEO Linda Kelly sat down with the incredibly talented Michael from Thamichaelated show and had an inspiring conversation about mental health and wellness and how seeking help isn't a bad thing; it doesn't mean you are weak, it means you are human. They managed to fit in over 20 topics in just over an hour. This episode is a must-listen as Linda decided to share a little surprise. Thank you again, Michael, for partnering with us on this; we know how much it meant to you to inspire people to reach out for help. If you would like to be a guest on our podcast, please send us an email at: [email protected]. Let's connect, and let's talk!

During times like these, we sometimes need a little extra help. We offer many free resources, such as informational materials and our podcast, to help with various mental wellness topics. Check out the links below, and if you need to talk, please contact us today to book your appointment. https://www.kellymentalhealth.com/resources.html https://anchor.fm/kellymentalhealth

New Podcast Alert! We're back, baby! CEO Linda Kelly and social butterfly Cassandra Nordal sat down to catch up and chat about their quiet holidays. They spoke about returning to work, co-parenting during the holidays, the lockdown and the pressures of the New Year Resolutions. They even managed to have some laughs at their own expense. (of course)... Please check out this fun episode and laugh with or at us!

With the rising Covid 19 pandemic cases, we’ve noticed that there is a lot of frustration and anger being put out into the social media world. Please try and understand that this anger most likely comes from fear. We are all worried and probably scared right now. In a time like this, we need to remain as positive as we can, and make sure we are doing our part to keep everyone as safe as possible. Before you act with anger, try a few of these positive self-talk affirmations. Stay safe everyone!

Start your morning off right and have a listen to this incredible episode with a little surprise from our CEO Linda Kelly! Thank you Thamichaelated show for having us!

Sending everyone strength and patience this week!

In honour of our new #wellnesswednesday we would like to introduce to you the newest member of our team Carissa Sparrow MACP, RP (Qualifying) Carissa is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), her dedication to the field of mental health comes from personal experience, seeing the challenges of loved ones living with mental illness and personally struggling herself. Carissa uses a person-centered, holistic, and integrative approach in treatment, valuing the connection of mi...nd, heart and spirit. She begins where you are and works collaboratively to tailor therapy to meet your needs, sensitive to cultural identities and lifestyle choices that impact your experience. She is warm and caring, she uses evidence-based techniques including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Emotion Focused and Solution-Focused. Carissa will work with you to set meaningful and realistic goals that will increase your self-worth, confidence and overall wellness. She will available through online or telephone sessions only. If you would like to book with Carissa to start your wellness journey, visit our website! See more

Here are some fun indoor activities for the little ones to do by themselves or with you during winter break in isolation. #kmhtbay

Incredibly brave of this man to share about his journey. Seeking help doesn’t have to come after experiencing the most horrific things imaginable either. It is brave and strong to recognize and work on your mental health, and to encourage others to do the same.

Trauma doesn’t tell time. It can’t tell if we’re 8 or 29, if our kids have the flu or we have a huge project due at work. When it sneaks up on us, it’s easy to think we’re back at square one but the truth is, even when our brain convinces us we are lost, if we try hard enough, our bodies remind us that there is always a way back. It just takes some time. Be patient with yourself, and don't be scared to reach out. Call us today.

Here is the visual episode of Season 3, episode 1. Thank you Dr Meg Van Deusen for your time.

New Episode Alert! In today's episode with Kelly Graham, MSW, RSW is all about the expectations society has for us to feel a specific way, and how we are impacted when reality doesn't really match. From weddings, relationships, losses - all major life events come with this idea of how you're supposed to feel about them. But many of us actually going through these events feel nothing of the sort. We actually feel guilty when we aren't head over heels in love with our partner or our new baby or even our life choices. Some of us feel more anxiety than excitement about taking the next step.

New Episode Alert! Welcome to Season 3 everyone! In our latest episode and first of the season, Linda Kelly, MSW, RSW, TITC-CT, CEO of Kelly Mental Health & Founder of the Kelly Mental Health Foundation sat down with Dr Meg Van Deusen PhD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist & Author based out of Seattle, Washington to discuss her book "Stress in the US" and the stress all around the world during these difficult pandemic times.

What is an Emotional Sponge? Someone who absorbs other peoples’ stress into their own bodies. So what are some steps to take to fix this?... Ask yourself if how you’re feeling is because of what’s going on in your life or others. Take some deep breaths and try and release some negative energy and tension. You may find stepping out into nature may help you. Sometimes you need to walk away from these issues that aren’t yours. You may need to set limits and boundaries with your loved ones or limit access to world news, social media etc. It’s very important that you take care of yourself. You can’t keep your life and your mind clean with a dirty sponge.

We will never forget.

Reality is you can’t pour from an empty cup. Our lives are filled with work, children, errands, cooking, outings, homework, chores etc. It’s consuming and how do you find the time to take care of yourself? When we don’t make the time for ourselves, we start to develop unhealthy coping skills in order for us to function sometimes. This also creates burnout which can be dangerous. So how do we nip this in the butt before it gets out of hand? We take care of ourselves. Schedule... some time, discuss and make a game plan with your partner or with yourself and start making the time. Future you will thank yourself. Self-care isn’t always a quiet bubble bath. Self-care looks different for everyone. So take that nature walk, watch that tv show, read that book, write down those feelings. Do what you need to do to take care of your body and your mind. Remember, things take time. Don’t put so much pressure on yourself. See more

Friday Feels We tend to immediately feel guilty when we cancel plans or have to take a mental health day. Why is that? We can be out in public, having the best day, and the next thing you know we have a panic/anxiety attack. We race to our vehicles in tears, embarrassed, while heavy breathing or struggling to breathe and the pure guilt that this has just happened to us. Why? Things happen, we are only human and we are doing the best we can. We have no control over things that happen to us sometimes. We’re going to have good days and we are going to have bad days. Our mental wellness is important. It’s time we take care of ourselves and it’s time to stop feeling guilty for things we can’t always control.

New Episode Alert! In today's episode, CEO Linda Kelly and Cassandra Nordal, sat down with Mandee Hochins to discuss life during and after addiction. We spoke about her journey of how her addiction began and the steps she took to get to where she is today. From under the rock bottom rock, to climbing to the top and staying there. We also discussed how counselling made an incredibly positive impact on her road to recovery. If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction, reach out to a friend, family, or contact us to speak with our therapists. There are multiple resources we can provide you with to try and assist you on your road to recovery.

We’re not saying it’s going to be easy, we’re telling you it’s going to be worth it. Be safe and if you need to talk, we’ll be here.

Working through addiction can be difficult. Be kind, understanding, respectful, take care, and listen to yourself and your body. If you are in need of support, contact us today. We can try and help you navigate through this difficult time.

Happy Monday! Sending everyone who needs it, positive vibes and strength on this gorgeous day.

A lot of us struggle with Mental Illnesses. The reality is that some of us don’t talk about it because we are scared or embarrassed. The world we live in is a difficult place and sometimes we are made to feel alone. We’re here to tell you that you are not alone. Your mental illness doesn’t define you and you can and are allowed to speak up, and talk about it. We may be able to help you start feeling like yourself again. If you are struggling, you don’t have to do it on your own.

Wow! What a wonderful start to our Thursday! Thank you Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce for this nomination, this means the absolute world to our entire team at Kelly Mental Health. A HUGE congrats go out to all of the nominees! Good luck everyone!

Don’t Forget to Protect that Vibe!

Reminder Take care of yourself first.

Fall is a time to reflect and be grateful for the things that we have in our lives. Especially after the year we have all had. A Gratitude Pumpkin is a great way to help us all remember to be thankful for everything in our lives. From now until Thanksgiving, each members of your household will write something (with permanent marker) they are thankful for on the Pumpkin. When Thanksgiving arrives, this will be a beautiful centre piece for your table and you all can read your pumpkin and reflect together.

Mental Health and Wellness is SO important. When we asked our team about it, this is what they had to say.

New Episode Alert! In today's episode, Kristen Sohlman, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist, shares valuable mental health tips on coaching our children through the return to school, letting go of unfair comparisons as parents, learning how to validate our kids, and understanding how to meet their needs by learning more about who they are as individuals. Special mentions include the Pinterest-worthy homeschooling setups, helping kids with special needs, and role-modelling to p...revent separation anxiety. Check out the link below to have a listen or you can find us on Spotify.

Remember to reach out and check in

Anxiety and stress can present itself in many different ways. Do you see some symptoms here that you’ve been feeling lately? It may be time to talk, and we’re here to listen. #letstalk

Radical acceptance is a skill used to reduce unnecessary suffering and increase our ability to navigate through difficult situations. It means we need to accept what we cannot change or do not have any control over. The starting point of growth is radical acceptance. You can’t grow unless you accept where you’re growing from. We are all a little uncomfortable with things happening all around us. Some of us may be finding it hard to accept the new normal. It’s time to settle in and get comfortable with being uncomfortable together because the trees are about to show us how lovely it is to let things go. Want to learn more skills in this area? Our therapists may be able to assist you. Contact us today!

The return to school can have an impact on everyone. Here are some simple grounding techniques that are great for anyone who is feeling stressed or uneasy.

Daily Reminder: YOU ARE ENOUGH! We will be back in action and resuming our regular business hours on Tuesday, September 8th. Until then, we wish everyone a safe, healthy and good vibes long weekend!