Summary:

In this episode, Nancy Henderson, a dedicated nurse and harm reduction researcher, joins host Sean Burke to discuss the realities of the toxic drug crisis in Canada. Nancy shares insights from their journey from community nursing to frontline research, reflecting on the struggles of burnout and the critical role of safe supply. Together, they unpack the complex web of policies, personal impact, and community-driven solutions shaping the future of harm reduction.

Nancy Henderson’s work embodies the resilience, advocacy, and personal commitment driving harm reduction forward. With a background in community nursing and a passion for policy reform, Nancy shares their journey addressing the overdose crisis, from the limits of individual care to systemic challenges in healthcare. This episode sheds light on the power of lived experience, the importance of compassionate care, and the potential for a safer future through innovative research and safe supply models.

Content Warning:

This episode includes discussions on sensitive topics, including substance use, the opioid crisis, and the personal impacts of burnout. We recommend listening with care.

Takeaways:

• Safe Supply Saves Lives: Nancy emphasizes that safe supply programs are designed to reduce harm and prevent fatalities—not to enable addiction.

• Systemic Change is Essential: Transforming policies is key to creating long-term solutions in harm reduction and substance use support.

• Lived Experience Matters: Including the voices of those impacted leads to more compassionate, effective healthcare practices.

• Preventing Burnout: In challenging fields, prioritizing self-care and support systems is crucial for sustainability.

• Education and Public Awareness: Informing the public with evidence-based research can reshape perceptions and reduce stigma.

Nancy Bio

Nancy Henderson is a Vanier Scholar and PhD student with the University of Victoria School of Nursing, and a Research Assistant with the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research. Nancy’s work as a community harm reduction nurse has led them to a variety of roles focused on working with the people most impacted by the housing and drug toxicity crises.

Resources:

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SafeCare BC: Your Mental Health Matters

Bounceback (bouncebackbc.ca)

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Summary:

In this episode, Emily Wyatt, a 2SLGBTQIA+ liaison nurse, shares their deeply personal journey of navigating healthcare as both a provider and a patient. From their own healing process to advocating for marginalized communities, Emily reflects on the emotional challenges and triumphs of creating safer spaces in healthcare for everyone.

Emily Wyatt’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and heart. As a 2SLGBTQIA+ liaison nurse, Emily opens up about their journey through nursing and the personal experiences that shaped their dedication to improving care for marginalized communities. They share the struggles of balancing their own well-being while helping others find safety and acceptance in the healthcare system. This episode offers a personal reflection on the impact of inclusive care, the importance of support networks, and how we can all play a part in creating a more compassionate healthcare environment.

Content Warning:

This episode includes discussions about sensitive topics, including self-harm, suicide ideation, substance use, and depression. We recommend listening with care.

Chapters:

• 00:01:20 - Introduction to Emily Wyatt and Their Role as a 2SLGBTQIA+ Liaison Nurse

• 00:03:13 - Recognizing Gaps in 2SLGBTQIA+ Healthcare and Patient Care

• 00:06:11 - Emily’s Personal Story: Transition, Nursing, and Medical Challenges

• 00:09:12 - The Role of Nursing Education in Emily’s Healing Journey

• 00:17:10 - Navigating Work, Burnout, and the COVID-19 Pandemic

• 00:26:42 - Creating and Expanding the 2SLGBTQIA+ Liaison Nurse Role

Takeaways:

• Inclusive Care Matters: Emily Wyatt highlights the critical need for creating healthcare environments that are safe, respectful, and inclusive, especially for 2SLGBTQIA+ patients, to improve overall care quality.

• Lived Experience Enhances Patient Care: Emily’s personal journey as a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community demonstrates how lived experience can bring deeper empathy and more effective advocacy in healthcare.

• Support Networks Are Essential: Emily underscores the importance of strong support systems, both for patients navigating the healthcare system and for healthcare professionals managing their well-being.

• Preventing Burnout is Critical: Emily’s experience during the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care to avoid burnout in high-stress healthcare environments.

• Allyship Transforms Healthcare: Emily stresses the role of allyship, urging healthcare providers to actively listen to and support their 2SLGBTQIA+ colleagues and patients, fostering a more equitable and safe healthcare system.

Resources:

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SafeCare BC: Your Mental Health Matters

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In this episode, Dr. Julie Wilson shares her journey of becoming a physician, building Terranova Medical Clinics, and redefining the future of primary care in British Columbia. From the challenges of establishing a business while managing personal health struggles to creating a unique workplace culture that prioritizes physician well-being, Dr. Wilson gives a firsthand account of the evolving healthcare landscape. She also offers insights into the growing need for collaborative healthcare models and the recruitment challenges within family medicine. Whether you’re a healthcare professional or interested in the future of primary care, this episode is filled with valuable lessons on resilience, leadership, and innovation in medicine.

Summary:

In this episode of the Care to Listen podcast, host Sean Burke sits down with Dr. Julie Wilson, a visionary family physician and co-founder of Terranova Medical Clinics. Dr. Wilson shares her remarkable journey, from navigating IVF and parenthood to reshaping the primary care landscape in British Columbia. Listen as she discusses creating a modern healthcare model, the challenges of building a business, and the importance of balancing patient care with innovative workplace culture. Tune in to learn how Dr. Wilson is leading a new wave of healthcare transformation, inspiring the next generation of physicians, and enhancing the patient experience in BC.

Content Warning:

This episode contains sensitive discussions, including topics such as fertility challenges, IVF, health complications, and personal illness. We recommend listening with care.

Takeaways:

• Workplace Culture Matters: Dr. Wilson emphasizes creating a supportive, flexible, and positive work environment for physicians to reduce burnout and improve patient care.

• Collaboration is Key: By building a team-oriented clinic with allied healthcare professionals, Dr. Wilson shows that a collaborative approach can enhance patient care and streamline operations.

• Innovation in Healthcare: Dr. Wilson’s success in introducing new healthcare models shows that thinking outside the box can lead to significant improvements in healthcare delivery.

• Resilience in the Face of Challenges: Whether dealing with personal health struggles or the complexities of running a business, resilience and adaptability are essential in overcoming obstacles.

• Hope for the Future: Dr. Wilson is optimistic about the future of primary care, with more opportunities for doctors and patients as healthcare models evolve.

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Julie Wilson and Her Clinic

• 05:00 - Building a Collaborative and Innovative Healthcare Model

• 12:00 - Balancing Parenthood, IVF, and Career

• 17:00 - Creating a Supportive Workplace for Physicians

• 26:00 - The Future of Primary Care in BC

• 31:00 - Advice for New Doctors

Resources:

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SafeCare BC: Your Mental Health Matters

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Debbie Lang Pearmain, an experienced HR consultant, shares easy-to-follow advice on self-care and mental health for healthcare workers. In this episode, Debbie talks about how healthcare professionals can reduce stress, avoid burnout, and take care of their mental health. She also discusses the importance of knowing yourself and using emotional intelligence to create a positive work environment.

In this episode of the Care to Listen podcast, host Sean Burke talks with Debbie Lang Pearmain, an HR consultant who specializes in mental health and well-being. Debbie explains how healthcare workers can take simple steps to manage stress and stay mentally healthy, even in a demanding job. She highlights the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and understanding your own emotions. Debbie also shares tips on how to use small daily habits to improve mental health and why it's important to ask for help when needed.

Content Warning:

This audio episode contains some sensitive content such as discussions of addiction, the ongoing opioid crisis, suicide, grieving, and loss. As such, we recommend that you listen to it with caution.

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction

• 00:43 - Debbie’s Background

• 02:56 - What is Emotional Intelligence?

• 05:25 - Why Self-Care Matters

• 12:00 - How to Manage Burnout

• 22:16 - The Power of Self-Advocacy

• 26:13 - New Ideas for Mental Health

Takeaways:

• Self-Care is Essential: Prioritizing self-care is crucial for healthcare workers to maintain their well-being and provide the best care to their patients.

• Emotional Intelligence Matters: Understanding and managing emotions are key components of thriving in high-pressure environments like healthcare.

• Advocate for Yourself: Self-advocacy is a powerful tool that helps healthcare professionals set boundaries and seek the support they need.

• Small Steps Make a Big Difference: Simple daily habits, such as mindfulness practices and healthy eating, can have a significant impact on mental health.

• Utilize Support Systems: Healthcare workers should take advantage of available resources, including EAP programs, coaching, and community support.

Resources:

Care to Speak | Care For Caregivers

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SafeCare BC: Your Mental Health Matters

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Kelsey Klaver, an advocate for psychological safety in healthcare, shares insights and real-life experiences that highlight the importance of creating a supportive and safe work environment. Healthcare professionals will learn about the critical role of psychological safety in reducing stress, preventing burnout, and improving patient care. Kelsey talks about her experiences and how she promotes psychological well-being in healthcare settings and offers steps and advice for building a culture where everyone feels valued and heard.

In this episode of the Care to Listen podcast, host Sean Burke interviews Kelsey Klaver, an advocate for psychological safety in healthcare. Kelsey discusses her work experiences and the importance of creating a safe and supportive work environment. She explains what psychological safety is, why it matters, and how it benefits both healthcare workers and patients. Kelsey also shares practical steps to build a culture of psychological safety and the challenges in implementing these changes.

This audio episode contains some sensitive content such as discussions of addiction, the ongoing opioid crisis, suicide, grieving, and loss. As such, we recommend that you listen to it with caution.

Takeaways

• Create a Safe Culture: It's important to create a work environment where everyone feels safe and supported.

• Everyone Plays a Role: Employers, leaders, and employees all have responsibilities in promoting mental health.

• Use Available Support: Healthcare workers should take advantage of support programs and resources.

• Reduce Stigma: Talking openly about mental health can help reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help.

• Listen to Employees: Employee feedback is crucial for improving psychological safety at work.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction

• 00:43 - Kelsey's Background and Journey

• 02:56 - What is Psychological Safety?

• 05:25 - Importance of Psychological Safety in Healthcare

• 12:00 - Practical Steps and Challenges

• 22:16 - Predictions for the Future of Psychological Health and Safety

• 26:13 - Tips for Healthcare Workers Facing Difficult Times

Resources:

Care to Speak | Care For Caregivers

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SafeCare BC: Your Mental Health Matters

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Genevieve Dalimore, a registered nurse in public health with over 18 years of experience, shares her personal journey of raising a neurodivergent child and dealing with the impacts of COVID-19.

In this episode, Genevieve talks about the importance of accurate sexual health education for youth, the difficulties of balancing work and personal life, and the need for healthcare workers to seek help and practice self-care. She also discusses the changes needed in public health to better support families.

Genevieve offers practical advice for healthcare professionals, parents, and the community on handling mental health challenges with strength and understanding.

Content Warning:

This audio episode contains some sensitive content, such as discussions of addiction, the ongoing opioid crisis, suicide, grieving, and loss. As such, we recommend that you listen to it with caution.

Takeaways:

• Prioritize Self-Care and Mental Health: Genevieve emphasizes the importance of seeking help and practicing self-care. Healthcare workers should be proactive in addressing their mental health needs by accessing counseling, support groups, or appropriate medication.

• Understand the Value of Accurate Health Education: Providing accurate sexual health education to youth is crucial. Ensure that the information shared is reliable and consider the impact of misinformation from social media and other sources.

• Advocate for Systemic Change: Genevieve highlights the need for improved public health prevention strategies and better access to services. Healthcare workers can advocate for systemic changes to support early intervention and comprehensive care for families and individuals.

• Balance Work and Personal Life: Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential. Healthcare workers should set boundaries, take regular breaks, and seek support from colleagues and supervisors to prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

01:15 Genevieve's Background and Passion for Public Health

05:28 Journey into Public Health and Personal Challenges

09:37 Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health

12:03 Burnout and Recovery

18:21 Parenting Neurodivergent Children

23:46 Seeking Help and Support Systems

36:52 Final Thoughts and Advice

39:55 Conclusion and Resources

Resources:

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SafeCare BC: Your Mental Health Matters

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In this episode of the Care to Listen podcast, host Sean Burke sits down with Jenna Schonke, a registered psychiatric nurse and board member of CMHA BC. Jenna shares her personal journey through mental health struggles, her professional insights, and her aspirations for the future of mental health care. This episode covers topics such as the impact of personal experiences on professional practice, the importance of self-care, and the need for systemic changes in mental health access and support.

Content Warning:

This audio episode contains some sensitive content, such as discussions of addiction, the ongoing opioid crisis, suicide, grieving, and loss. As such, we recommend that you listen to it with caution.

Time Stamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction: Sean Burke introduces Jenna Schoenke and previews the discussion on personal mental health experiences and advocacy.

00:01:19 - Professional Background: Jenna shares her background as a registered psychiatric nurse and board member of CMHA BC.

00:04:16 - Personal Mental Health Journey: Jenna discusses her own mental health struggles, including anxiety, depression, and self-harm, and how these experiences influence her nursing practice.

00:10:59 - Balancing Work and Personal Life: Jenna talks about the challenges of managing work-life balance in a high-stress profession and the importance of self-care.

00:18:06 - Advocacy Work: Jenna explains her role on the CMHA BC board, her advocacy efforts, and her vision for improving mental health care access and support.

00:29:36 - Impact of COVID-19: Jenna reflects on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected her work and the mental health care system, emphasizing the need for ongoing support and processing of trauma.

Resources:

Care to Speak | Care For Caregivers

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SafeCare BC: Your Mental Health Matters

Bounceback (bouncebackbc.ca)

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CMHA British Columbia – Mental Health for All

In this episode of the "Care to Listen" podcast, host Sean Burke sits down with Mark Antczak, a registered clinical counselor and clinical educator at Anxiety Canada. Mark opens up about his own battles with anxiety and how these experiences shaped his career in mental health. He provides an in-depth look at cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and its effectiveness in treating anxiety. Mark also discusses the importance of self-care for healthcare workers, offering practical advice for managing personal well-being in high-stress environments. Additionally, the episode explores the broader societal implications of anxiety, the benefits of community support, and various self-care strategies that individuals can adopt to improve their mental health. Mark shares valuable tools and resources, like the MindShift app, designed to help people manage anxiety more effectively.

Content Warning:

This audio episode contains some sensitive content, such as discussions of addiction, the ongoing opioid crisis, suicide, grieving, and loss. As such, we recommend that you listen to it with caution.

Time Stamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction: Sean Burke introduces Mark Antczak and sets the stage for their conversation about anxiety and mental health.

00:01:37 - Role at Anxiety Canada: Mark describes his role as a clinical counselor and educator, emphasizing the organization's mission and his personal involvement.

00:02:00 - Personal Struggles with Anxiety: Mark shares his personal experiences with anxiety, detailing his early challenges and how they shaped his career.

00:10:31 - Explaining Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Mark provides an overview of CBT, explaining its principles and how it helps manage anxiety.

00:16:25 - MindShift App: Discussion about the MindShift app, a tool developed by Anxiety Canada to help people manage their anxiety through CBT techniques.

00:18:19 - Holistic Approaches to Managing Anxiety: Mark talks about the need for a comprehensive approach to mental health, combining therapy, lifestyle changes, and community support.

00:24:54 - Impact of the Pandemic on Mental Health Professionals: Mark discusses the increased strain on healthcare workers during the pandemic and shares his personal experiences of burnout.

00:34:00 - Advice for Seeking Help: Closing remarks by Mark, offering advice to listeners who might be contemplating seeking help for anxiety or other mental health issues.

Resources:

Anxiety Canada

Care to Speak | Care For Caregivers

Phone Resources

SafeCare BC: Your Mental Health Matters

Bounceback (bouncebackbc.ca)

This podcast is brought to you by:

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CMHA British Columbia – Mental Health for All