Virtual therapy dogs offer ‘pawsitive’ support during pandemic isolation
Therapy dogs are a valuable mental health support, but the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way this “pawsitive” support is offered. Carleton University and other local institutions are adapting their programs to suit this new virtual format.
Ottawa Public Health provides mental health tips for isolated residents
As COVID-19 continues to shift the way we socialize, Ottawa Public Health provides advice for those who feel isolated during the pandemic.
‘Know that you are special’: Cards, letters deliver powerful message to Ottawa seniors in pandemic isolation
As the temperatures neared the mid-30s on Father’s Day, Debbie Abfalter took a detour on her way to the beach to stop at the Stirling Park Retirement Community. Despite the blistering heat, residents gathered outside of their building — located near the Merivale Mall in west-end Ottawa — to greet her. That’s because when Debbie stops by she always brings...
Mental health misconceptions hinder Black community
In the black community in Canada there is a stigma surrounding mental health concerns.
Erasing stigma key to helping black Canadians who face mental illness, experts say
Black Canadians facing a mental health condition are often battling stigma within their own community.
Recipe for de-stress: Fun, furry, virtual therapy dogs
Carleton's Therapy Dogs usually make themselves available for pats and play in person. That’s obviously out, but their handlers decided the pups are needed now even more than ever.
Planking the COVID-19 curve with online yoga classes
Innergy Corporate Yoga is using the online conferencing platform Zoom to stream live classes to clients.
COVID-19 increasing mental health concerns along with physical damage, experts say
With COVID-19 social distancing in effect, experts say it is important to be mindful of our mental health while in isolation.
The Salvation Army shelter debate enters new phase
Concerned residents challenge the city’s plans for a 350-bed men’s only homeless shelter in Vanier before a provincial tribunal this month.
In ‘Limbo’: One woman navigates the maze of psychiatric emergency care in Ottawa
The pressure on emergency services for those suffering from a mental health issue is increasing.
Twice as many young women as men in Ontario say they have poor mental health: study
A comparison of the perceptions of mental health between young men and women in Ontario and Canada based on a recent study by Statistics Canada.
In wake of officer’s suicide, Ottawa to unveil unique mental health clinic for first responders
The recent suicides of an Ottawa police officer and nine Ontario police officers are highlighting the need for more mental health services for first responders.