Episode
Episode 8: Mental Health in Heavy Times
- Published
- Feb 26, 2025
- Duration seconds
- 1414
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://awayforwardpodcast.transistor.fm/8
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Summary
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 Intake The 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-Being Setting 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 Much How to identify when normal stress levels turn into something more serious. Signs to watch for: prolonged changes in appe…