Health

  • The Role of Self-Care in Health and Wellbeing

    In our fast-paced world, we often prioritize productivity, juggling responsibilities and meeting societal demands over the fundamental need for self-care. The importance of self-care, however, cannot be overstated. It plays a crucial role in maintaining our overall health and wellbeing and serves as the foundation for a balanced and fulfilled life. Self-care refers to activities and practices that we engage in on a regular basis to reduce stress and maintain and enhance our short and long-term health and wellbeing. It’s a personal commitment, a conscious act of putting oneself first, and it’s often the first thing we compromise when life gets busy. Self-care encompasses various dimensions including physical, mental, and…

  • Understanding the Types of Migraines

    Migraines are far from a homogeneous affliction. The term “migraine” actually encompasses several different conditions, each with its own unique set of characteristics and symptomatology. The three primary types are migraine without aura, migraine with aura, and chronic migraine. Let’s delve into the intricacies of each. Migraine Without Aura Also known as a “common migraine,” migraine without aura is the most prevalent type of migraine. Despite its name, there’s nothing “common” about the intense pain and accompanying symptoms people experience. The pain is typically localized to one side of the head and can range from moderate to severe in intensity. It is often described as a throbbing or pulsating sensation.…

  • Elder Abuse: A Silent Epidemic

    As we all grapple with the unprecedented impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, one quiet yet rapidly growing crisis calls for our immediate attention: the alarming increase in elder abuse. Data shows a stark reality that around 1 in 6 people aged 60 years and older have experienced some form of abuse in community settings during the past year. Elder abuse, often a silent form of violence, is a sweeping issue that encompasses a broad spectrum of offences. It ranges from physical and sexual abuse to emotional abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. Its manifestations are diverse, yet its consequences are universally detrimental, leading to serious physical injuries and long-term psychological consequences.…

  • Canadian Men’s Exercise-Mind Link

    In the past several years, discussions surrounding mental health have significantly intensified, paving the way for essential conversations around wellness strategies. A recent survey illuminates a fascinating fact: 81% of Canadian men believe that physical activity has a positive effect on their mental health. This new perspective not only challenges traditional views on mental health management but also serves as a testament to the evolving understanding of holistic wellness. The Connection Between Physical and Mental Health For many years, researchers have posited a link between physical activity and mental health. Physical activity, including exercise and other forms of movement, has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. It…

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries

    Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) remains a crucial issue affecting millions of people worldwide each year. With an annual incidence rate of approximately 500 out of every 100,000 individuals, this translates into an estimated 165,000 new TBI cases in Canada alone each year. While the scale of the problem is staggering, the impacts and the available treatments for TBI are also areas that warrant extensive exploration. TBI is a complex injury with a broad spectrum of symptoms and disabilities. It often results from a violent blow or jolt to the head or body. An object penetrating the skull, such as a bullet or shattered piece of skull, can also cause TBI.…

  • Health Risks Hiding in Plain Sight

    In our day-to-day lives, many of us are aware of the overt threats to our health, such as sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and tobacco use. However, there are also many less obvious threats that lurk beneath the surface. In this article, we’ll discuss several surprising things that you might not realize are harmful to your health. These seemingly harmless aspects of daily life may, over time, pose significant risks to your wellbeing. Prolonged Sitting: Many Canadians spend a large portion of their day sitting, whether at work, during commutes, or while enjoying leisure activities. Research has shown that extended periods of sitting can contribute to a variety of health problems,…

  • Understanding and Managing Anxiety

    Anxiety, an intricate and multifaceted phenomenon, is an intrinsic part of the human experience. Manifesting in forms as varied as fleeting moments of worry to intense, debilitating panic attacks, anxiety affects millions globally, including a significant number of Canadians. Gaining a deeper understanding of how anxiety appears and the methods available to manage it is critical, not just for those grappling with it personally, but also for those who aim to provide support. Anxiety often originates from a trigger — an element in one’s surroundings that induces feelings of fear or concern. This trigger could be a particular scenario, such as delivering a public speech, or it could be a…

  • The Multifaceted Role of Parks and Recreation in Canada

    Canada, the second-largest country in the world by land area, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and extensive wilderness. But, nestled within its bustling cities and quaint towns, there is a vital resource that sometimes gets overlooked – its parks and recreation facilities. From national parks to local community playgrounds, these spaces play an indispensable role in enhancing the quality of life for all Canadians, providing not only environmental benefits but also promoting health, fostering community, and fuelling local economies. Health and Wellness The health benefits of parks and recreation facilities cannot be overstated. They provide easily accessible spaces for physical activities such as walking, running, biking, and playing sports.…

  • Anxiety: The Fight or Flight Response

    The human body is a marvel of biological engineering, equipped with systems and responses intricately designed to keep us alive and well in the face of danger. One such vital survival mechanism is the “fight or flight” response. This complex physiological reaction to perceived threats enables us to act quickly and decisively when our wellbeing is at stake. However, in the context of anxiety, this fundamental response can often lead to adverse physical and psychological outcomes. This article delves into the fight or flight response in detail, exploring its relevance to anxiety. The Origins of Fight or Flight The term “fight or flight” was first coined by American physiologist Walter…

  • Top 5 Misconceptions About Men’s Health

    Men’s health is a subject filled with myths and misconceptions. Stereotypes, misinformation, and outdated ideas can greatly impede the understanding of men’s health, leading to poor choices and negative health outcomes. Let’s shed light on some of the most common misconceptions about men’s health, aiming to help individuals make more informed decisions about their wellbeing. Misconception 1: Men Don’t Need Regular Checkups Many men tend to avoid regular health check-ups unless they are experiencing acute symptoms. This can be attributed to a societal stereotype that men are supposed to be tough and resilient, avoiding medical help unless absolutely necessary. This approach, however, is fundamentally flawed. Regular check-ups are critical for…