Category: Mental Health

The parent’s guide to teenage depression

Posted on by EHN Online

The parent’s guide to teenage depression

Teenage years can be difficult. Adolescents are dealing with changes to their bodies, social circumstances, and the pressures that come with rapidly approaching adulthood. Along with the added pressures of social media, it’s unsurprising that an estimated one in five teens experience depression.1 What is surprising is that even though depression amongst teens is well documented and common, many teens never receive help. One reason for this is that it can be hard to know the difference between regular teenage moodiness and depression. It’s even harder to know what to do about it.

If you suspect your teen may be depressed or facing another mental health issue, the sooner they receive help, the better their outcomes for recovery. That said, with so much stigma still surrounding mental health and the challenges associated with identifying depression in teens, parents are often left unsure about where to begin. Rest assured that there is information and resources to help you navigate this time.

We recently spoke with Dayna Browne, the youth team lead and counsellor for EHN’s Healthy Minds Comprehensive Teen Program, to get her expert opinion on this topic. You can watch our video with her below.

 

What is teenage depression? How is it different from depression in adults?

Whether talking about adult or teen depression, there are several signs and symptoms that indicate someone may be suffering. A person does not have to display all symptoms from the following list to be considered depressed, but it is important to consider how long symptoms last for. Someone experiencing even a few signs for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks may be suffering from depression.

Signs to look for include:

  • Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
  • Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
  • Irritability
  • Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
  • Fatigue or decreased energy
  • Moving or talking more slowly
  • Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
  • Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
  • Appetite and/or weight changes
  • Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
  • Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease with treatment2

While depression in teens can present in the same way it does in adults, there can be some differences. In speaking to us, Browne said, “Teenage depression is really no different than adult depression, but I do want to really highlight and emphasize that in young people, it can manifest quite differently.”

Along with different triggers and causes, there are several symptoms that are more common in teenagers than adults:

Irritable or angry moods: While depression is often characterized depression by sadness, irritability is often the predominant mood in depressed teens. They may be grumpy, hostile, easily frustrated, or quick to anger.

Body aches and pains: Depressed teens frequently report physical ailments such as headaches or stomachaches. While these symptoms could be caused by a physical illness, if a doctor can find no other cause, don’t rule out depression.

Sensitivity to criticism: A predominant feeling for many teens experiencing depression is worthlessness, increasing their vulnerability to criticism, rejection, and failure. This is why understanding how to talk to a teen is so important. Browne emphasizes a nonjudgmental and open-ended approach when speaking to teenagers.

Withdrawing from people: Much like adults who tend to isolate when depressed, teenagers may socialize less than before, pull away from their families, hang out with a new social circle or spend time with fewer friends.1

Is this depression or just teenage moodiness?

There are a few factors parents can look for to distinguish between depression and an everyday bad mood, but namely it helps to consider two things: duration and persistence.

It’s likely that throughout our teenage years, we all will experience many symptoms of depression at some time or the other. That’s just one of the joys of puberty. But when the depressive symptoms persist for weeks, parents should consider other more serious causes.

“The things that parents should really watch out for again is persistent and considerable changes in a youth’s functioning and behaviour. Specifically, so that it interferes with everyday activities that are required, or things that the youth would typically participate in or do.” Browne notes.

She also adds that two weeks is a good length of time to see if symptoms persist and judge if a teen may be experiencing more than just a bad mood.

What causes depression in teens?

Much like how adult and teenage depression may manifest in different ways, teens are facing a unique set of challenges at this phase in their life that contribute to their mental state.

Browne notes “In terms of the reason or the underlying factors [for teenage depression], sometimes it’s biological chemistry. We know that depression has to do with neurotransmitters and other predispositions, however in youth, there could be other sorts of significant triggering events for a young person, something like the loss of a loved one, breakup, friendship and peer difficulties… as well as bullying and other stressors can really impact a youth’s depression level.”

She adds that all these factors can just become too much to handle.

“I think all of these things [triggers] can really cause a sort of spiral in depressive symptoms, and so these are some of the factors we consider when we’re assessing and treating depression in youth.”

Browne’s comments are supported by Stanford Children’s Health, who report that teens face difficulties that they’re ill-equipped to handle emotionally. By nature, they feel powerless against these situations.3

Aside from life events and family history, other factors that play a role in causing depression include social environment, medical conditions, and negative thought patterns. Other possible triggers for teen depression are learning disabilities that make academic success difficult, hormonal changes affecting mood, and physical illness.

How to talk to a depressed teenager

Parents have an opportunity to create a safe space for their teen to discuss their mental health, or even just to feel comfortable with themselves and their thoughts. One of the key aspects to keeping communication open is to ensure you are actively listening instead of lecturing. If your teen comes to you with mental health concerns, offer them a safe space by taking their worries seriously and acknowledging their feelings without judgement.

As a parent, don’t worry about having all the answers right away.4 This can be an opportunity to ask open ended questions and learn together without preconceived notions about what your child is experiencing. Like anyone else, sometimes all a teenager wants is to be heard and validated.

As many teens may be reluctant to reach out to their parents for help, it often rests on the parent to open the dialogue. Let them know you’ve noticed a change and want to check in and see if they’re alright.

Once your teen has communicated that they’re struggling, keeping an ongoing dialogue and addressing what can be done is important. This could include asking your teen what they need. They might already have a good idea of the next steps they’d like to take. If not, you can work together to find a logical next step that they are comfortable with.

It can be difficult for some teens to talk with their parents about certain subjects, so offer additional places and people where they can go to seek support, such as a school counsellor, another family member, a local mental health or youth organization, a website, or a phone line.4

Talking to a healthcare professional is also a great thing to do. Visit your family doctor so they can assess the situation and refer your teen to specialized mental health services, if needed.

Ways to help your depressed teen

There are several ways you can help your teen if they’re struggling. Many of those ways are connected to self-care and total wellness and can be easy to implement at home.

“We want to ensure they’re eating well, sleeping well, hygiene, all the normal things. When we take care of our body, we know it’s directly connected to mental health, so we want to ensure that parents are supporting their youths doing that,” Browne adds.

Physical activity is also very important. Aerobic exercise, walking, yoga, or other meditative practices release positive chemicals in the brain that effect mood. Because many of these activities can be done socially, they support the need for interconnected interactions and feelings of love and support.

Parents can also support consistency with scheduling and routine that can help a teen who is having trouble regulating their internal state. Ensuring families are eating dinner together at the same time in the evenings, having scheduled time for homework, and boundaries in place around social media can all help with mood.

Finally, in a time of increased stress, ensuring teens have time for fun and relaxation is key.

If you believe your teen could benefit from outside help, don’t be afraid to seek it. It’s always better to address the problem earlier rather than later. If you notice symptoms like decreased energy, irritability, and sadness persisting for weeks, it is time to explore some options. This might mean contacting your child’s school, talking to a healthcare professional, going to therapy, or seeking community support. No matter what, as your teen’s advocate, it’s up to parents to take an active role.

Remember that you are not alone

Teenage years are exciting but also challenging times. It is important to keep in mind, particularly on difficult days, that teen depression is common and can be treated. Addressing signs of a mental illness early on helps people to learn coping strategies and better communication skills, which they can take into adulthood for more well balanced and healthy lives.

If you are worried about your teen and think a community program would be a good fit, look into the virtual Healthy Minds Comprehensive Teen Program at EHN Online. As an online therapeutic program for teens struggling with mood or anxiety disorders such as depression and anxiety, the program works to help teens manage or alleviate their symptoms. This is done through evidence-based therapies from trained clinicians as well as practical approaches to help them cope with their day to day. The program is customized to meet the interests and schedules of teens, as it does not interfere with their school schedule and has built in elements (like the Wagon app) geared towards their age. If you would like more information around the program, contact us to learn more.

Teenage mental health impacts parents as well. It is common to worry about whether you are providing the right type of and amount of support to your child. By taking the time to learn about teenage depression, you are already on the right track. For those who would like to increase their knowledge of mental health and practice useful skills, to further support your teen, the Healthy Minds Comprehensive Teen Program includes multiple caregiver sessions. These three-hour sessions are based in emotion-focused therapy (EFT) to help caregivers foster a healthy, informed, and supportive environment for their teens to grow.

Remember that your teen, even though they may not currently be displaying the more positive or loving aspects of their personality, is still very much the child you know and love. They deserve to have the best care and support possible to recover from the very real struggles they are currently facing.

Help your child get the support they need. Contact us today.

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Resources

1 Smith, M., Reid, S., Sega, J., & Robinson, L. (n.d.). Parent’s Guide to Teen Depression. Https://Www.Helpguide.Org. Retrieved October 26, 2021, from https://www.helpguide.org/articles/depression/parents-guide-to-teen-depression.htm

2 NIMH » Depression. (n.d.). Retrieved October 26, 2021, from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression

3 Stanford Children’s Health. (n.d.). Retrieved October 26, 2021, from https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=understanding-teenage-depression-1-2220

4 Talking to Teens About Mental Health. (n.d.). Retrieved October 26, 2021, from https://cmha.bc.ca/documents/talking-to-teens-about-mental-health/  

Mental Illness Awareness Week – Starting the Conversation

Posted on by EHN Online

Mental Illness Awareness Week – Starting the Conversation

Man and woman talking on balcony. Mental Illness Awareness Week - starting the conversation

With Mental Illness Awareness Week upon us from October 3rd – 9th, followed by World Mental Health Day on October 10th, there’s never been a better time to educate yourself and others about the importance of mental health. That includes checking in on friends and family who may be suffering and starting important conversations.

Oftentimes, people don’t seek out the treatment they need in the early stages as they don’t recognize the symptoms. October 3rd begins a week of national reckoning about the breadth of mental disorders, how they can be treated and how we can help stop the stigma still sadly associated with them. Mental Illness Awareness Week not only brings some much-needed attention to these devastating disorders, it aims to help people understand the symptoms so they can get the help they need. Considering 1 in 3 Canadians will experience mental illness during their lifetime, this is something that simply cannot be ignored.

 

The 8 most common types of mental health conditions 

Whether occasional or chronic, there are many different types of mental health conditions with many different symptoms. Here are some of the most common types:

Anxiety – We’ve all experienced anxiety, whether before an important test, presentation or life event. An anxiety disorder on the other hand, is an illness that causes people to feel frightened, distressed or uneasy for no apparent reason. This type of anxiety can seriously interfere with a person’s quality of life, affecting their sleeping and eating patterns, and in severe cases, their ability to function through life.

Bipolar Disorder – This mental health disorder is characterized by extreme highs and lows in mood and energy, beyond regular mood swings. Everyone experiences ups and downs in life, but people with bipolar disorder experience them at higher frequency and severity. The shifts that occur within this condition are severe and can seriously impact a person’s life, causing major disruption within the family. They can even affect a person’s ability to hold down a job.

Schizophrenia – People who suffer from this challenging disorder have a difficult time distinguishing between what’s real and what’s isn’t. They may see or hear things that aren’t there (hallucinations) or have unusual ideas or views that aren’t shared by others (delusions). They also have a hard time thinking clearly, managing emotions, relating to others and functioning normally, which typically causes them to act out in confusion or fear.

Eating Disorders – Those struggling with an eating disorder often become obsessed with food, body image and/or weight. One of the most common types is bulimia nervosa, characterized by periods of binge eating and then purging with laxatives or vomiting. The other is anorexia nervosa, when people avoid food completely or severely restrict their intake. Both conditions can lead to serious health issues, such as heart and kidney problems, or sometimes death.

Depression – One of the most common mental health conditions, depression causes people to lose pleasure in life. More than just experiencing a day or two of sadness, for those suffering, the sad feelings don’t go away. They persist and interfere with everyday life causing a person to feel extremely tired, empty and hopeless, and in extreme cases, can even lead to thoughts of death or suicide.

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – After going through a traumatic experience, it’s completely normal to go through emotions like fear, distress, helplessness, guilt, shame, anxiety or anger. With PTSD, those feelings don’t fade away, and the person feels stressed or frightened long after the trauma is over.

Addiction/Substance Use Disorder – For some people, the use of substances can become problematic and lead to dependence. Those suffering from substance abuse disorders have distorted thinking and behaviours causing them to have intense cravings and changes in personality. Often a person’s ability to function in day-to-day life or maintain valuable relationships becomes severely impaired.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – This anxiety disorder is characterized by repetitive, uncontrollable, unwanted thoughts with irrational, excessive urges to do certain actions. These repetitive acts help relieve stress and anxiety brought on by an obsession as the person suffering believes that these rituals will help prevent something bad from happening.

 

Having a conversation about mental health 

It can be difficult for someone to talk about their struggles with mental health, but creating a judgement-free zone and showing your support is a great way to get help them feel more comfortable and open up. However, it’s important to understand that this is an extremely touchy subject to broach and it can go sideways at the slightest turn. That’s why it is strongly advised that you seek a professional consultation before you initiate the discussion so you know what to say and how to say it. Read on for some tips to help you have a successful conversation.

 

Knowing when to start the conversation 

You don’t need to be an expert to recognize when friends or loved ones need help, although there are a few signs to look out for. Please be advised that this is just a guide to help recognize some of the changes that may occur in those who are struggling with mental health.

Changes in appearance:

  • Bloodshot or glassy eyes
  • Unprofessional appearance or poor hygiene
  • Unexplained injuries such as cuts, bruises, scrapes or marks
  • Dramatic weight loss or gain
  • Multiple physical ailments without obvious causes (like headaches, stomach ache, vague/ongoing aches and pains)

 

Changes in energy levels or mood:

  • Exhaustion or fatigue from lack of sleep
  • Loss of interest in pleasures of life
  • Feeling excessively sad or low
  • Unpredictable mood swings, including uncontrollable highs or extreme feelings of euphoria, irritability or aggression
  • Inappropriate verbal or emotional responses and behaviours
  • Relationship disharmony (e.g. how they speak about loved ones)
  • Thoughts of suicide
  • Changes in sex drive

 

Changes in function

  • Decline in effort or performance (e.g. increasingly ordering takeout or not cleaning their spaces)
  • Changes in sleeping habits
  • Excessive worrying or fear
  • Noticeable errors in judgement
  • Decline in punctuality
  • Inexplicable absences in personal and work life
  • Difficulty perceiving reality (delusions or hallucinations)
  • Avoiding friends and social activities
  • Problems concentrating or learning
  • Inability to carry out daily activities or handle daily problems and stress

 

Ask yourself: are you the right person to start this conversation?

 An important thing to remember is that being supportive doesn’t mean it’s your duty to “fix” the person struggling. As you know, mental health is complicated and the solutions don’t happen overnight. If you’re comfortable being their sounding board, helping them navigate resources and providing encouragement, you’re already off to a great start.

Ask yourself these 3 questions:

Do they trust you? One of the biggest fears the person suffering has to overcome is having others find out about their mental illness. That’s why they rarely initiate mental health conversations themselves and will likely only talk about it with someone they know and trust.

Can you speak calmly and rationally? What they need most right now is patience and understanding. If you believe that you can provide that for them without reacting negatively to whatever they have to say, you could be the right person to have the conversation.

Can you be non-judgemental or accusatory?  Mental health issues don’t just affect the person struggling, but their friends and family as well. If you think you’ll have a hard time holding your strong emotions in, the conversation should probably be had by someone else.

 

Tips on how to start the conversation about mental health

The most important thing you can do before beginning a conversation with a loved one about their mental health is to get rid of your expectations. Remember, while it can be a big relief for someone to share their personal experiences with mental illness, these struggles often require more than one conversation.

For starters, pick a quiet place to talk without distractions, like a park or a beach. You could also grab a snack and take a drive (which is a great solution if you feel the person you’re talking to wants to avoid eye contact). Lastly, ensure that they are not manic or under the influence when you have the conversation or it could backfire.

Here are some questions/phrases to help get you started:

  • “How have you been feeling lately? I’ve noticed that you’ve seemed (insert adjective: distant/overwhelmed/tired).”
  • “Is there anything I can do for you right now? What do you think you need at this moment in time?”
  • “What do you usually do to cope with stress? Have you found anything that works well for you?”
  • “I noticed you haven’t been around as much lately, is there anything you’d like to talk about?”

 

How to provide continuous support to those suffering 

So you had the conversation with your loved one. They responded and are (thankfully) starting to get the mental health treatment they need. What do you do next?

Stay supportive. Continue to be their listening ear so they don’t feel isolated while going through treatment.

Stay in touch. If you don’t live with them, check in regularly. Offer to go grab a coffee or go for a walk so you can talk things out in a calm environment.

Stay curious. Don’t be afraid to ask how their treatment is going, just remember to always be tactful and compassionate when inquiring.

Stay vigilant. If you’re concerned that your loved one is at risk of harm or they’re talking about ending their life, this could be a medical emergency. Call 911 and stay calm until help arrives.

Stay aware: Continue to educate yourself and take note of helpful resources that you can offer to share with them. To find resources specific to your region, visit the Canadian Mental Health Association.

 

Conversational do’s and don’ts when addressing mental health 

Ready to start the conversation? Here are a few tips on how to help someone struggling with mental health and avoid the pitfalls that can stop this important conversation in its tracks.

DO

Listen. Let them get all of their thoughts out without interrupting. After they’ve finished, then you can respond.

Ask them what they need. No matter what have they to say, take them seriously and don’t minimize their feelings.

Talk about options for support. Do your homework so you’re aware of the treatment options available and can help point your loved one in the right direction.

Remain calm at all times. Though some of the things they share may be worrisome, do your best to be a pillar of strength so they can get their feelings out.

 

DON’T

Judge or criticize. Insulting their emotions or actions doesn’t help and will only push them away.

Worry about having all the answers. Remember it’s your job to listen so you can help guide them towards getting the help they need. It’s not up to you to provide it. If you can, prepare yourself with some resources that can help, ahead of the conversation.

Force communication, lecture or try to fix the problem. While you understand how much of a relief it can be for someone to share, it’s not your job to get it out of them or try to solve it.

Use a confrontational approach to incite guilt or shame. Acting in this way will often push those who are struggling away as they will want to avoid feeling worse than they already do.

 

Mental health support on the go 

Need some help remembering the tips you read here today? Download our useful infographic for a takeaway summary of this article, including tips on how to help support your loved one’s emotional well-being through their mental health struggles.

 

Be prepared for conversations surrounding mental health. Contact us today to learn how EHN can help.

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EHN CAN HELP

Whether you’re an individual who needs help with your mental health or substance use disorder, a friend of someone struggling or you’re an employer with employees who need help—we’re here for you. Call us 24/7 at one of the numbers below to start a conversation about how we can help you.

 

This Mental Illness Awareness Week, do what you can to acknowledge the realities of mental health disorders. Reach out—check in on friends, educate yourself, start valuable conversations. You may be surprised at how great of an impact it can make for someone struggling.

When to get help for mental health disorders and addiction — and where to find it

Posted on by EHN Online

When to get help for mental health disorders and addiction — and where to find it

When we think of mental health challenges and addiction issues, we probably think of extremes. Sober or alcoholic. Healthy or not. Panic attacks where you’re bed-bound for days. Liver problems from excessive drinking.

You might start asking yourself questions like ‘Do I need help, or will this go away eventually?’ This article is designed to help you find the answer. Now, when it comes to struggling with addiction, depression or anxiety, there’s no substitute for being diagnosed and treated by a qualified medical professional. However, this article will give you some insight into where you or a loved one’s symptoms might fall within the range of mental health and addiction conditions, when you should start thinking about getting help, and what your options are.

 

Canada’s growing mental health and addiction crisis

 

Let’s begin with a little background. “Mental illness” and “addiction” can apply to a wide range of disorders that may affect how you think, your mood, and the way you behave. When we talk about these disorders, we are generally referring to depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. While many people will struggle with varying degrees of these disorders, they become more and more worrying as they begin to get more frequent and/or harder to resist.

These disorders are incredibly common and affect people of all ages and lifestyles. In fact, every year, at least one in five Canadians experiences a mental health condition. The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) points out:

  • About 8% of adults will experience major depression at some time in their lives
  • will have or have had a mental illness
  • Anxiety disorders affect 5% of the household population, causing mild to severe impairment
  • Substance use disorders affect approximately 6% of Canadians.

CMHA also states that 21% of the population (six million people or so) will meet the criteria for addiction in their lifetime. Alcohol and cannabis are the substances that most commonly meet the criteria for addiction, but opioid use has also become a crisis.

 

Mental health, depression, and COVID-19

If Canada had a mental illness and addiction problem before, it was kicked into overdrive by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In its “Survey on COVID-19 and Mental Health,” the federal government revealed that 21% of adults aged 18 and older screened positive for at least one of three mental disorders: major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The survey also said that mental disorders were four times higher among adults who were isolated by the pandemic, and 40% of Canadians who had financial troubles because of COVID-19 screened positive for one of three mental disorders.

“Since the beginning of COVID-19, we have been seeing some very troubling trends in mental health and addiction,” said Lanie Schachter-Snipper, the National Director of Outpatient Services at EHN Canada, in an interview with Georgia Straight.

“There are increased rates of addiction, overdoses, and addiction-related deaths, as well as an increase in rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide. Those who never or rarely experienced mental health issues pre-pandemic are reporting new issues emerging and those who had preexisting conditions are reporting the worsening of symptoms.”

 

How depression and anxiety affect your mental wellbeing

For some people, mood and anxiety disorders can hinder their ability to successfully manage life’s ups and downs. For others, mood and anxiety disorders prevent them from living life at all, creating such severe anxiety they can’t leave their house, work their jobs, or enjoy time with family. These disorders can make life incredibly difficult, leaving people feeling lost, isolated, and hopeless.

Depression can cause an unshakeable feeling of sadness, leaving people unable to engage in everyday activities — even enjoyable ones. People affected by depression, especially major clinical depression, can’t “just snap out of it,” and may require treatment, including psychotherapy, medication, or both.

Other mood disorders include bipolar disorder, dysthymia, and disorders related to health conditions and substance use.

Anxiety disorders often come with excessive and persistent feelings of stress, anxiety, and fear. Of course, occasional anxiety is a part of life, but anxiety disorders leave people with intense and excessive worries and fears about everyday situations. People may suffer from debilitating panic or anxiety attacks, forcing them to retreat and start avoiding places or situations that might trigger an attack.

When you couple these existing mood and anxiety disorders with the pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic (such as isolation, fear about an uncertain future, and concerns about economic hardships), it’s no wonder that many people found their symptoms becoming even more pervasive.

 

When is it time for depression and/or anxiety therapy?

Many people wonder if their symptoms are normal, or if they might require some kind of treatment. The truth is that symptoms can range from minimal, to mild, to moderate, to severe. Where you fall on this range will determine whether you need to seek treatment, and also impacts what kind of treatment will be right for you.

At to identify where symptoms fall in the minimal to severe range. We encourage you to use these questions to help determine whether you or a loved one might be ready to seek help.

  • How you feel inside: Do you find little interest or pleasure in doing things? Do you feel down, depressed or hopeless? Do you feel bad about yourself — that you are a failure or that you have let your family down? Have you thought that you would be better off dead, or about hurting yourself in some way?
  • Physical effects: Have you felt tired or had little energy? Have you had trouble with insomnia or sleeping too much? Has your appetite been poor, or have you been overeating?
  • Behaviours or interactions with others changing: Have you had trouble concentrating on things like reading, work or watching TV? Have people noticed that you moved or spoke slowly? Or the opposite — that you’ve been fidgety or restless?

 

To identify where you fall within the range of anxiety symptoms, the EHN Online team looks for:

  • How you feel inside: Do you feel anxious, worried or nervous? Do you have moments of sudden terror, fear or fright? Have you had thoughts of bad things happening, such as family tragedy, ill-health, job loss or accidents?
  • Physical effects: Have you felt your heart racing, sweaty, trouble breathing, faint or shaky? Have you felt tense muscles, jaw clenching or teeth grinding, on edge or restless, or had trouble relaxing or sleeping?
  • Behaviours or interactions with others changing: Have you avoided situations that you’re worried about? Have you left situations or participated only minimally due to worries? Have you spent lots of time making decisions, putting off making decisions or preparing for situations?

 

Alcohol and drugs: how much is too much?

Substance use disorder affects a person’s brain and behaviour and can lead to uncontrolled use of a drug or medication, even when the person knows these substances are causing them harm. It’s important to remember that the legality or illegality of a substance doesn’t play a role in diagnosing substance use disorder, which is why alcohol, cannabis and nicotine can all become problematic.

Substance use disorder can sometimes begin by experimenting with alcohol or drugs recreationally, ‘just for fun,’ but getting drawn deeper and deeper into a complete dependency. In other cases, addiction can start with prescribed medications like opioids. In both cases, users will quickly notice they need more and more to achieve the desired effect, despite the physical, emotional, or financial toll it takes on them and the people they love.

While there are many possible different symptoms of substance use disorder, some signs to look for include:

  • Overwhelming urges to consume the substance
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if you stop consuming
  • Needing more of the substance to get the same effect
  • Spending money on the substance, even if you can’t afford it

Deep down, people often know their substance use is getting out of hand, but that’s a terrifying thing to admit to yourself and others. It takes honesty and immense bravery to admit you need help and to reach out for it, and people who do so require support from trained professionals and caring peers, friends, or family to reclaim their lives and start truly living again.

 

From self-rehabilitation to intensive outpatient and inpatient programs: which is right for you?

When determining substance abuse and addiction issues, the EHN Team looks for the following. We encourage you to use these questions to help determine whether you or a loved one might be struggling.

  • How much do you consume and how do you consume it? Do you drink or take drugs in a particular way to increase the effect? Do you consume in the morning, afternoon and evening?
  • How do substances fit in with the rest of your day? Have you found yourself thinking about when you will next be able to have another drink or take drugs? Have you identified substance use as more important than anything else you might do during the day? Have you felt that your need for drink or drugs was too strong to control? Have you planned your day around getting/taking alcohol or drugs? Have you found it difficult to cope with life without drink or drugs?

 

A closer look at the range of addiction and mental health conditions

We’ve used the answers to our screening questions to create the infographic below. Use your answers to find where exactly you fall in the range of addiction and mental health conditions.


   Download the full infographic here   


Minimal: Everyone should take care of their physical and mental wellbeing

If you look at the infographic and determine that you identify as “not using” on the addiction spectrum, and “healthy” on the mental health spectrum, that’s great news. You don’t need to seek professional help for these.

But mental health is like physical health — the more you maintain it, the better you’ll feel. Consider using online apps designed to support good mental health habits and check out free online mental health and addiction communities like the forums from the Mood Disorders Society of Canada.

 

Mild to moderate: try early intervention

If you found yourself in the mild-to-moderate section of the infographic, there are a few ways you can find help.

For mild-to-moderate use of drugs and alcohol, you may still be at the experimental stage. Perhaps you’re feeling peer pressure or find yourself turning to them a little too often. You might be able to stop using the drugs on your own initiative at this stage. Perhaps reach out to a close friend or trusted family member with whom you can be honest. Ask for their support and to hold you accountable as you begin cutting these substances out.

But what if your use becomes more habitual, if you’re consuming substances regularly and increasing doses to get the same effect, and you find yourself having trouble controlling your urge to use them?

 

If early intervention is not enough, try an intensive outpatient program

Structured help can come in the form of an intensive outpatient program, an industry term for a program made up of individual, group, or family therapy sessions, support groups, medications, and behavioural therapy conducted by a licensed addictions or mental health therapist.

The challenge is sometimes these types of intensive outpatient programs can be hard to come by. The treatment facilities only have limited spaces available or can be too far for people to get to.

This is where EHN Online’s Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) services come in. With EHN Online, geography doesn’t matter. You get the support you need for your mild-to-moderate symptoms at home, helping you change your path with the guidance of credentialled, caring staff. You get virtual mental health and addiction solutions, delivered by the professionals at EHN Canada, who have more than 75 years of experience successfully treating mental health and addiction issues.

The different online therapy programs include nine hours of group and individual therapy sessions for eight weeks, followed by 10 months of aftercare support. The programs also come with access to EHN’s online platform and app, Wagon, which gives you a personalized recovery plan, as well as different tools, exercises, and ways to record your progress as you achieve your wellness goals.

 

Not sure if online therapy is for you?

It might be the right fit if…

  • You are having increasing trouble functioning at work
  • You have symptoms triggered by specific events or situations
  • Your levels of depression, anxiety or stress are increasing
  • You are relying more on substances to cope with daily life challenges
  • You would like to reevaluate your coping skills to maintain your recovery
  • Your current coping strategies aren’t working

 

Severe symptoms: consider inpatient care

If the infographic places you on the far end of the range, you are grappling with the most serious symptoms and possible harms. You may be at risk for a full-blown mental health crisis, with outbursts of anger, excessive panic attacks, thoughts of suicide, constant fatigue, and falling prey to different addictions.

With symptoms as severe as these, you will require inpatient care with a stay at a professional mental illness and addiction treatment facility for your safety.

This may be unwelcome news, or perhaps you’ve known you needed help for a long time. Either way, you will soon be getting the help you need to take back control of the life that has been stolen from you by addiction or mental health issues. Inpatient care doesn’t just treat immediate issues — such as detoxing — but it will also help you identify and address underlying problems that cause your symptoms, teaching you better ways to cope. With the right help, you can avoid rock bottom, and begin your climb toward a healthy future.

EHN Canada offers comprehensive treatments to help you recover from any and all mental health challenges you’re facing, including addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, and more. We have seven facilities nationwide, offering accessible care where you need it. It can be scary to take this step in your recovery, but if your symptoms are severe, an inpatient program will be the best option for you. Every step of your recovery is clinically informed and administered by licensed medical professionals.

A general guide, not a diagnosis

The information about where you may lie on the range of mental health or addiction issues is only offered as a general guide. To get an accurate diagnosis, you need to consult an experienced professional.

EHN Canada and EHN Online make the process of getting the qualified help you need easy. Give us a call to learn more about our services and how we can support you on your journey to recovery. With facilities online and across Canada, we can find a program that’s right for you.

Bellwood (Toronto, ON): 866-281-3012
Edgewood (Vancouver Island, BC): 604-210-8713
Ledgehill (Lawrencetown, NS): 866-419-4483
Sandstone (Calgary, AB): 866-295-8981
Gateway (Peterborough, Ontario): 705-874-2000
Nouveau Depart (Montreal, Quebec): 866-738-5572
EHN Online: 866-345-8192
Or contact us by email.

After finding the right program, you can get started on your recovery, supported by EHN Canada, a recognized leader in addiction and mental health services. Wherever your symptoms fall, we can help you find a new and better place to thrive.

 

Be prepared for conversations surrounding mental health. Contact us today to learn how EHN can help.

888-767-3711
Contact Us

 

How much does online therapy cost?

Posted on by EHN Online

How much does online therapy cost?

Online therapy is an excellent and convenient way to access mental health support. Even though it may seem that online therapy is a relatively new development, virtual therapy has existed in many forms for years. Over the past year and a half, with the COVID-19 pandemic, online therapy has grown even more popular, with most therapists and programs switching from in-person to an online format. Upon making the switch, many therapists, and their clients, found that online therapy offered several benefits. Aside from being more accessible, online therapy can also be a more affordable option than in-person treatment. If you are considering therapy, learning about the costs of online options can be a great start.

 

What is Online Therapy?

Individual Therapy

Online therapy can take many different forms. Traditionally, when we think of therapy, the image that comes to mind is one of individual counselling, where a therapist talks to a single patient, face-to-face in an office setting. Individual counselling is a popular and proven form of therapy that can, fortunately, be replicated quite easily over the phone through a secure online platform.

Through teletherapy or video therapy, you will meet with a therapist on a call or video call and talk to them for a set amount of time. The platform your therapist chooses will be both secure and private. You can work through any issues you are having and learn coping mechanisms just as you would in person.

While an in-person session can typically run anywhere from $100-200 per appointment, there may be a slight decrease in cost if this session takes place virtually. This can be due to fewer operating costs for the therapists or if your individual

In a treatment plan like this, you may do online counselling in both a group and individual setting for a set period of weeks, as well as have other accountability tools at your disposal like an app and continued access to clinicians. Because it is , the cost breakdown works out to less than if you were to seek out all the elements of the program individually. For example, the cost of a one-hour individual counselling session becomes less than as part of an IOP, while a single session with an independent therapist might run around $150 per hour.

 

Group Therapy

Online group therapy is a form of psychotherapy in which one or two therapists work with several clients at the same time. Therapy groups typically have up to 12 members and meet for one or more hours, weekly. The therapists guide the group process and provide structure. Groups may be open or closed. In an open group, members may join at any time, while a closed group has a set start and end date (like in an IOP).

Often, community support can take the form of group therapy. Online community support is often less expensive or free to use but may not provide the amount of guidance or support on its own that you need to fully recover.

 

Text Therapy

With advances in technology, teletherapy now extends to texting as well. Text therapy services generally operate through a platform that will match you with a therapist who can offer the kind of support you need. Once you have a therapist, you can start sending messages detailing what you want to work through. Text therapy is often priced at a monthly rate and can be much cheaper.

It is also important to keep in mind that even if the cost of the service is the same price online, you might be saving in other ways. Consider and factor in your travel costs or what you might save in childcare if you are doing therapy from home.

 

Is Online Therapy Worth It?

The short answer is yes. While internet-based therapy might seem like a rather new offering, as mentioned above, it’s been around for quite some time and improvements in technology have only made the practice more secure, easier to navigate, and optimal. There is already strong evidence that online therapy is as effective as in-person treatment. A trial in the Journal of Effective Disorders found that “internet-based intervention for depression is equally beneficial to regular face-to-face therapy. However, more long-term efficacy, indicated by continued symptom reduction three months after treatment, could only be found for the online group.”1 In another meta-review of apps for anxiety and depression, researchers found that apps “hold great promise with clear clinical advantages, either as stand-alone self-management or as adjunctive treatments.”2

You may also find that online therapy works best for your lifestyle. It provides access to services you may not otherwise have in your local area and allows you to work on yourself from the comfort of your home. For those who deal with social anxiety, online therapy has been found to be “effective for reducing the symptoms of social anxiety disorder” without the triggering symptoms of face-to-face, which may lead some to avoid or quit treatment.3 Increasingly, smartphone-based options, like apps, are being taken up by organizations like universities to support student mental health.

With a rise in mental health related issues this past year, online and teletherapy helped to increase the capacity for care and aided many individuals to stay on track and continue to make progress with their therapeutic goals.

 

Do Insurance Providers Cover Online Therapy?

While many insurance providers do cover some forms of online therapy, it is always best to check with your provider directly to ensure you know what is included in your plan. Often, whether you are covered or not depends on the credentials of the therapist. Make sure to check with the therapist or program you are interested in to confirm what they are certified in so you can give your insurance provider as much information as possible before investing in a service.

If your insurance providers do not provide coverage, investigate charities that run programs or will help you to fund your therapy. There is more support out there than you might imagine.

 

How Much Should You Expect to Pay for an Online Therapy Program?

The most important thing to keep in mind when considering cost is to think about what is going to be most effective for you. While some services may cost less, they may not be what you need to recover. Going for the cheaper option, instead of the right option, will not only lead to delayed recovery, but money and time wasted.

Something like an IOP may seem like a larger investment, but when you break down the services and amount of hours you are getting, the value for the cost is greater than the average price of a therapy session or standalone text service. It is useful to always consider the cost against the amount and quality of service.

The cost of EHN Online’s IOP works out to $38/hr for 173 hours of treatment at a bundled price. If you were to choose everything the program offers in a self-directed manner, you would end up paying almost twice the price. Therefore, an IOP may be the best option.

All in all, online therapy is a great way to get help for less money and easier accessibility. Prices range, but there are options like insurance and charities that can help. No matter which option, or combination of options you choose, the aims remain the same. Online therapy, like in person therapy, is there to help you relieve distress through discussing and expressing feelings; helping to change attitudes and habits that may be unhelpful, and promoting more constructive ways of coping.

 

Be prepared for conversations surrounding mental health. Contact us today to learn how EHN can help.

888-767-3711
Contact Us

 

References

  1. Lecomte, T., Potvin, S., Corbière, M., Guay, S., Samson, C., Cloutier, B., Francoeur, A., Pennou, A., & Khazaal, Y. (2020). Mobile Apps for Mental Health Issues: Meta-Review of Meta-Analyses. JMIR MHealth and UHealth, 8(5), e17458. https://doi.org/10.2196/17458
  2. “Internet-based versus face-to-face cognitive-behavioral intervention for depression: A randomized controlled non-inferiority trial.” Journal of Affective Disorders, Volumes 152–154, January 2014, Pages 113-121. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032713005120?via%3Dihub
  3. McCall HC, Helgadottir FD, Menzies RG, Hadjistavropoulos HD, Chen FS. Evaluating a Web-Based Social Anxiety Intervention Among Community Users: Analysis of Real-World Data. J Med Internet Res. 2019;21(1):e11566. doi:10.2196/11566

Five signs your teen is struggling with their mental health

Posted on by Hailey Montgomery

Five signs your teen is struggling with their mental health

Our teenage years are meant to be care-free and exciting, filled with self-discovery and exploration that prepares us emotionally for pending adulthood. But, as most of us can easily recall, the reality of being a teenager is rarely this simple. 

As young people go through the physical, emotional and social changes that are expected in their teens, they’re vulnerable to mental health problems. In fact, 70% of people with a mental illness begin experiencing symptoms before age 18, and young people aged 15 to 24 are more likely to experience mental illness and/or substance use disorders than any other age group [1].

As a parent or guardian, you are in an excellent position to start a dialogue with your teenage kids about their mental health. But, it can be tricky to differentiate between typical teenage moodiness and a mental health issue. Continue reading for five signs your child might be struggling with their mental health and some tips on what to do next.

Teen and youth mental health in Canada

Common mental health issues among youth include:

  • Emotional disorders: Includes depression, anxiety, excessive irritability, frustration or anger, unexpected emotional outbursts, etc. Depression is the fourth leading cause of illness and disability among adolescents aged 15 to 19 globally [2].
  • Eating disorders: Including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. They typically begin in adolescence or young adulthood and affect women ten times more than men [3, 4].
  • Suicide and self harm: Canada has the third-highest youth suicide rate in the industrialized world [5]. Canadian youth aged 15-24 have a higher risk of suicide than the general population [6]. Risk factors include harmful use of alcohol, depression, stigma, and barriers to healthcare.

 

How can I tell if my teen is struggling with their mental health?

1. They’re falling behind in school

Mental illness can negatively impact concentration, motivation, sleep and energy level — all of which can make focusing on school pretty difficult. Your child doesn’t have to have perfect grades, but a drop in marks might be a red flag for concurrent mental health disorders. As well, a 2021 study in the journal Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology found that mental health problems in early childhood and adolescence increase the risk for poor academic performance.

Pressure to succeed academically, test anxiety, bullying at school, poor sleep, poor nutrition and more can all negatively impact a student’s mental wellness and keep them from excelling. You might also notice your child skipping class or not handing in assignments.

2. They’ve experienced unexplained weight loss/weight gain 

If a teenager is rapidly losing or gaining weight, they could be struggling mentally. When experiencing stress or anxiety, teenagers might turn to extreme dieting or overeating to regain a sense of control over their lives or conform to societal beauty standards.

 Anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are just a few additional mental health diagnoses that frequently co-occur with eating disorders [7].

3. They’re withdrawing socially and losing interest in their hobbies

While it is normal to lose interest in childhood hobbies as we age, an abrupt avoidance of activities that once brought joy can be a sign of depression. Depression is common across all age groups but can present differently in teens than adults. Some common symptoms include feelings of sadness or crying spells with no apparent cause, excessive anger or frustration, trouble concentrating, weight loss/gain, or thoughts about self-harm and suicide.

4. They’re using drugs or alcohol frequently

Many people start to experiment with drugs, alcohol or tobacco in their teens. According to Statistics Canada, 60 per cent of illicit drug users in Canada are between 15 and 24. The illicit market aside, youth are also vulnerable to prescription drug addiction. For example, in 2019, CAMH found that 11 per cent of Ontario students in Grades 7 to 12 reported taking an opioid pain reliever (i.e. Tylenol 3, Percocet etc.) that was not prescribed to them.  The same study found that high school students were using e-cigarettes (vapes) significantly more often than years before [8].

Many people who have an addiction also develop other mental illnesses, and vice versa. With the right treatment program, these co-occurring disorders can be addressed together.

5. Their sleeping patterns have changed dramatically

Mood and sleep are closely linked. If your teen is struggling with stress and/or anxiety, for example, it can be harder for them to get the amount of rest they need to properly regulate their emotions. According to​​ Harvard Medical School,15 to 20 percent of people diagnosed with insomnia will develop major depression, and even partial sleep deprivation has a significant effect on mood [9].

There are plenty of reasons your child’s sleep schedule might change in high school, but consistent exhaustion is detrimental to their physical and mental health. 

What should I do to help my child struggling with mental health?

If you suspect your teen might be struggling with a mental illness or addiction, the first step is initiating a conversation from a place of compassion and understanding. Here are some tips to prepare: 

1. Learn and listen 

There is plenty of misunderstanding and stigma attached to mental illness and addiction; this creates barriers to accessing proper treatment. If you know or suspect that your teen is struggling, educate yourself on their symptoms or condition to demonstrate how much you care. Some great resources include the Canadian Mental Health Association, Children’s Mental Health Ontario, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and Youth Mental Health Canada. You can also check out EHN Online’s blogs on enabling a loved one’s addiction or speaking to a loved one about their addiction.

Approach a conversation with your teen from a place of empathy, not judgement or accusation. Find a private place to speak, address their emotions and concerns with compassion, and use your research to discuss possible solutions. 

Avoid being confrontational or using a judgemental tone, as this could make your child feel guilty or ashamed. Remind your child that you are initiating this conversation because you care and want what’s best for them.

2. Take care of yourself

Mental health problems are extremely common, especially among young people, and are nothing to be ashamed of. Remember that talking about mental health should be as easy as talking about physical health. 

As you’re helping your child through their mental health struggle, make sure you’re tending to your own health as well and have healthy habits in place to handle stress.

3. Look into treatment options

There are several treatment options and solutions to help better your teen’s mental health that are proven to be effective. A great place to start is talking to your family doctor so they can refer you to a mental health specialist if needed. Publicly-funded treatment options are available through your provincial healthcare system, but keep in mind that wait times can be significant.

If you’re interested in private services, try looking at directories on different professional college’s websites, such as The Ontario College for Psychologists or the Ontario College of Social Workers. Group and individual therapy, medication and stress management techniques have all been proven to help improve mental health. No two journeys to mental wellness are the same. Speaking to a professional can help determine the best course of action for you and your teen.

Finally, if your child is dealing with mild-to-moderate symptoms, a structured outpatient teen program is a great alternative to a residential program.

What does a structured outpatient program look like?

If you suspect your teen might be in need of mental health treatment, a structured, evidence-based outpatient program is an effective and affordable alternative to inpatient (residential) treatment. Virtual outpatient programs allow youth to continue living at home and participating in daily activities such as school, while connecting with like minded individuals and receiving the personalized care they deserve.

EHN Online’s Healthy Minds Comprehensive Teen Program is a nine-week program that helps youth aged 14-18 mend their mental health virtually. With flexible scheduling options, your child can receive the highest standard of mental health care and connect with other teens experiencing similar symptoms from the comfort of their own home. Research shows that outpatient therapy can be as effective as residential treatment, [10] and with EHN Online’s program being tailored specifically to teens, they’ll be able to stay engaged and practice coping skills and strategies in their daily lives.

Structured online treatment programs are a great option for people who have a mild-to-moderate case of mental illness or addiction, and need more support than counselling or medication alone can provide.

The Healthy Minds Comprehensive Teen Program can be accessed virtually across Canada. 

Learn more.

 

Resources for Teens

  • Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 
  • Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310 / Online chat: www.hopeforwellness.ca 
  • Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419
  • Canada Suicide Prevention Service: 1-833-456-4566 (24/7)
  • For Quebec residents: 1-866-APPELLE (277-3553) (24/7) 

 

Be prepared for conversations surrounding mental health. Contact us today to learn how EHN can help.

888-767-3711
Contact Us

 

Sources

[1] Government of Canada (2006). The human face of mental health and mental illness in Canada. Ottawa: Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada.

[2] Pearson, Janz and Ali (2013). Health at a glance: Mental and substance use disorders in Canada. Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 82-624-X.

[3] Kessler RC, Angermeyer M, Anthony JC, et al. Lifetime prevalence and age-of-onset distributions of mental disorders in the World Health Organization’s World Mental Health Survey Initiative. World Psychiatry 2007; 6: 168–76

[4] Government of Canada. The Human Face of Mental Health and Mental Illness in Canada, 2006. Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada. Catalogue no.: HP5-19/2006E.

[5] American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association; 1995.

[6] Mental Health Commission of Canada (2013). Making the case for investing in mental health in Canada.

[7] Findlay L. Depression and suicidal ideation among Canadians aged 15 to 24. Health Rep. 2017 Jan 18;28(1):3-11. PMID: 28098916.

[8] Anxiety, Depression and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. (n.d.). The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). Retrieved July 18, 2021, from https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/anxiety-depression-obsessive-compulsive-disorder

[9] Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. (2020). Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Study, 1977–2019. https://www.camh.ca//-/media/files/pdf—osduhs/drugusereport_2019osduhs-pdf.pdf

[10] Breslau, N. et al., Sleep Disturbance and Psychiatric Disorders: A Longitudinal Epidemiological Study of Young Adults, Biological Psychiatry. Mar 1996; 39(6): 411–418.

[11] McCarty, D., Braude, L., Lyman, D. R., Dougherty, R. H., Daniels, A. S., Ghose, S. S., & Delphin-Rittmon, M. E. (2014). Substance abuse intensive outpatient programs: assessing the evidence. Psychiatric services (Washington, D.C.), 65(6), 718–726. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ps.201300249

Does online counselling work for depression?

Posted on by EHN Online

Does online counselling work for depression?

Man-thinking

It is estimated that 1 in 3 Canadians will be affected by a mental illness during their lifetime.1 With mental health conditions like depression on the rise in Canada,2 access to treatment and care are more important than ever. Therapy has long been studied and proven as a positive treatment for many mental illnesses, but online or virtual treatment is a relatively newer endeavour. While teletherapy has existed for over twenty years,13 interest in virtual treatment for mental health concerns grew significantly in 2020 when most in person services had to quickly switch to virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This switch increased both the study of and interest surrounding online counselling for conditions like depression and anxiety. Research shows that both modes of delivery are effective and there may even be some lifestyle benefits to online treatment.

What makes therapy effective?

To decide whether online treatment may be the right choice for you, it helps to understand what therapy is and what makes therapy effective. In psychotherapy, professionals apply scientifically validated procedures to help people develop healthier, more effective habits. There are several approaches to therapy—including cognitive behavioural (CBT), interpersonal, and other kinds of talk therapy—that help individuals work through their problems.3 Psychotherapy offers people the opportunity to identify the factors that contribute to their mental conditions and to deal effectively with the causes. Skilled therapists work with individuals so they can identify negative thought patterns, pinpoint and solve certain life problems, and regain a sense of control and pleasure in life.4

Effective therapy can be determined by several factors. Broadly speaking, a person may notice a reduction in their symptoms, an increase in overall happiness, more energy, and better self-worth. 5,6

Differences and similarities between virtual and in person therapy

All of the above outcomes can be achieved whether someone chooses to seek therapy in person or online. When thinking about which option is right for you, consider how the two modes are similar and how they differ.

Keep in mind is that both are effective for treating a mental disorder. A 2014 study found that online treatment was just as effective as face-to-face treatment for depression,7 while a 2018 study found that online CBT was equally as effective as face-to-face treatment for major depression, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder.8

Reading body language

Both in person and online treatment also offer the opportunity to make a personal connection with your counsellor and have one-on-one time with them for a personal assessment and to identify any potential concerns. Therapists that operate virtually are often trained to pick up on social and body language cues even in a virtual session and can take similar, if not the same, steps to intervene in a crisis. Before selecting a virtual therapist, you can inquire about their online training and how crises are addressed to ensure that you are satisfied with their approach.

Location and time

The largest difference between the delivery of in person and online therapy is the logistics surrounding sessions, such as time and place. While virtual treatment can be done from your own home and requires no commute time, in person therapy involves travelling to and from a therapist’s office.

Because virtual treatment takes place remotely, your location does not matter. With face-to-face treatment, the therapist must be in a vicinity close to you and your choices are limited to those that practice in your area. When geographical location is eliminated from the mix, more specialized treatment can often be found online with a larger pool of services to choose from.

Cost of treatment

Cost is another thing that might differ between in person and virtual. While some therapists may charge the same for online and in person sessions, certain virtual programs may be more cost-effective, where the price breakdown per hour comes out to less than a typical session.

Anonymity and privacy

You may also want to consider the varying levels of anonymity that come with programs. With in-person, there is always the chance of running into someone you recognize in a waiting room or in front of the therapist’s office, particularly if you live in a small town. In virtual programs, there may be a group session where other participants are involved. As with many programs that deal with private subject matter, measures are taken to ensure a level of privacy. These measures are another thing to consider when inquiring about programs that may include a group component.

Privacy and confidentiality are among common concerns for those who consider online treatment programs. Despite popular belief, online therapy can be equally as confidential as in person therapy. If you are feeling unsure about your privacy, inquire about whether your service is compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). In short, this act works to protect the confidentiality of people receiving medical treatment, including mental health services.

Suitability

Lastly, consider what option is truly right for your condition and symptoms. Some individuals may not be suitable for online therapy. Individuals with severe mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, intellectual disabilities, or high suicidality may not be a good fit for some online therapy services.9 On the other hand, those with severe social anxiety might benefit from testing the waters of socialization through virtual group meetings where the perceived risks are much lower.

Proven benefits of online counselling

Flexibility

There are several benefits to online therapy. For many people, being able to partake in therapy from their own home saves them the time it takes to commute to and from treatment. It also allows for greater flexibility if the person cannot leave the house to attend a session. Those with younger children, for example, can attend a virtual session from their own home without having to arrange childcare.

Accessibility

A virtual program is also ideal for those with less accessibility to individual counsellors, such as those who live in smaller towns or remote areas. In these cases, online therapy works well as distance is no longer an issue. This also allows people to access a particular kind of service or therapeutic program that might not be offered anywhere physically near to them.

Less intimidation, more connections

Online group programs create a safe space for participants to open up to one another, which increases the number of opportunities to access peer support and make connections. Online therapy also encourages the disinhibition effect. Knowing you can close your laptop, are in a safe space, and that your support system may be close by allows people to feel more relaxed and comfortable to share their experiences. This is especially true for those who deal with social anxiety. Not having to leave the house and being able to attend treatment from a safe space makes getting help less intimidating.

 

While online therapy does not have the century of research behind it that in person therapy does, several studies and research in the last decade have found that online treatment has equal efficacy to in person treatment. One study directly compared the effectiveness of the online CBT to in-person CBT and found that they were equally effective at reducing depression.10 In that study, those who stayed in therapy the longest saw the greatest benefit. It is not only CBT and the treatment of depression that works well online. Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, which focuses on setting goals and finding solutions to problems, has also been tested online. In one study, researchers assigned students with mild to moderate levels of anxiety to receive either online or in-person therapy. Both methods were equally effective.11 Online therapy has also been studied regarding teletherapy’s success for PTSD and proved to be an effective method of treatment.12

To summarize, online therapy can bypass factors such as transportation, accessibility, and affordability. Remember that while a lot happens in sessions, most of the growth work is done out in the world while you are experimenting with and practicing the things you learned in treatment. Whether doing counselling in person or online, deciding to focus on your mental health and well being is always a worthwhile commitment.

 

How to access online counselling

If you think online treatment would suit your needs and lifestyle, consider EHN Online’s Mood (Depression) and Anxiety Intensive Outpatient Program. This online therapeutic program is for individuals struggling with mood or anxiety disorders such as (but not limited to) depression, anxiety or panic disorders and are looking to manage or alleviate their symptoms.

This online intensive outpatient program provides a supportive and structured treatment experience that allows patients to make meaningful changes to sustain long-term recoveries. You can expect to receive evidence-based therapy and support in a safe and non-judgemental space.

 

 

Still not sure which type of treatment is right for you?

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References

1 Canadian Community Health Survey – Mental Health (CCHS – MH), 2012. Percentage of the household population aged 12+ living in the 10 provinces that met criteria for at least one of six mental disorders (including mood disorders, generalized anxiety disorder, and substance use disorders).

2 Mental Health in Canada: Covid-19 and Beyond. (2020). CAMH Policy Advice. https://www.camh.ca/-/media/files/pdfs—public-policy-submissions/covid-and-mh-policy-paper-pdf.pdf

3 Understanding psychotherapy and how it works. (2020, July 31). Https://www.Apa.Org. https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/understanding

4 Depression and how psychotherapy and other treatments can help people recover. (n.d.). Https://Www.Apa.Org. Retrieved July 20, 2021, from https://www.apa.org/topics/depression/recover

5 What is Psychotherapy? (2019, January). American Psychiatric Association. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/psychotherapy

6 Gillihan, S. (2018, February 7). How Do You Know When Your Depression Is Improving? Psychology Today Canada. https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/think-act-be/201802/how-do-you-know-when-your-depression-is-improving

7 Wagner, B., Horn, A. B., & Maercker, A. (2014). Internet-based versus face-to-face cognitive-behavioral intervention for depression: A randomized controlled non-inferiority trial. Journal of Affective Disorders, 152–154, 113–121. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2013.06.032

8 Andrews, G., Basu, A., Cuijpers, P., Craske, M. G., McEvoy, P., English, C. L., & Newby, J. M. (2018). Computer therapy for the anxiety and depression disorders is effective, acceptable and practical health care: An updated meta-analysis. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 55, 70–78. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.janxdis.2018.01.001

9 Stoll, J., Müller, J. A., & Trachsel, M. (2020). Ethical Issues in Online Psychotherapy: A Narrative Review. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 0. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00993

10 Carlbring P, Andersson G, Cuijpers P, Riper H, Hedman-Lagerlöf E. Internet-based vs. face-to-face cognitive behavior therapy for psychiatric and somatic disorders: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. 2018; 47(1):1-8.

11 Novella JK, Ng KM, Samuolis J. A comparison of online and in-person counseling outcomes using solution-focused brief therapy for college students with anxiety. Journal of American College Health. 2020:1-8.

12 Turgoose D, Ashwick R, Murphy D. Systematic review of lessons learned from delivering tele-therapy to veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder. Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare. 2018;24(9):575-85.

13 Novotney, A. (2017, February). A growing wave of online therapy. Https://www.Apa.Org. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2017/02/online-therapy

Are you enabling a loved one’s addiction?

Posted on by Hailey Montgomery

Are you enabling a loved one’s addiction?

If you’ve ever watched a loved one struggle with an addiction, you know it can be a heart wrenching, isolating, and frustrating experience.

There are many different ways to support a loved one going through an addiction, but how do we know if we’re — consciously or not — enabling  their behaviour? If we know the traits of an enabler, we can stop our behaviour in its tracks and better empower our family or friends to seek life-saving treatment or harm reduction services.

What is enabling?

Simply put, “enabling” means to contribute to or support someone’s self-destructive behaviour. According to the American Psychological Association, an enabler is typically an intimate partner or good friend who passively permits or unwittingly encourages this behaviour in the other person; often, the enabler is aware of the destructiveness of the person’s behaviour but feels powerless to prevent it.”

It’s important to remember that while there is often a negative stigma attached to the term, we’re most likely not acting maliciously or trying to do any harm as enablers. Most people are trying to be loving and supportive, but just don’t know how. That said, if we can be conscious of our enabling, we are in a better position to help our loved ones recover by empowering them to change.

What does enabling an addiction look like?

When it comes to addiction or substance use disorders, like alcoholism, there’s more to being an enabler than actively encouraging or participating in the behaviour. Here are some examples of enabling that are a bit more subtle:

Making excuses

When we love someone, it’s easy to make excuses for all sorts of negative, self-sabotaging behaviour. But when it comes to substance use, the stakes can be high. This might look like telling other friends or family that someone’s addiction “isn’t that bad,” or excusing it altogether.

This is tempting and can seem innocent, but it shields the person from the real consequences of their actions.

Bailing them out

Addiction can impact every aspect of a person’s life, making it difficult to keep up with important commitments or obligations. In more severe cases, they can fall into financial or legal trouble.

Family and friends help each other out in the toughest of times. So, if we have the means to pay legal fees, repay debts, or loan money to someone in a bind, we often feel like this is the right thing to do. While it is kind and understandable to want to make someone’s life a little bit easier, this can actually encourage their addiction.

For someone trying to recover from an addiction, knowing they have people in their corner can make all the difference. But financially supporting their habits might give them a false sense of security and delay the realization that their substance use has become a serious problem.

Blaming others

We know that addiction isn’t a “choice” and that there are several biological and social factors that make some people more vulnerable. That said, when a loved one is struggling with addiction, it isn’t productive to blame other people for their actions.

It’s easy to place blame on a friend who actively encourages or joins in on their substance use, the strict boss, the spouse or partner that broke their heart, our ourselves. But it’s important to remember that this doesn’t help.

There will be people that are objectively toxic for someone who is trying to recover from addiction — but blaming these people for the addiction itself takes away the addicted person’s agency and teaches them that they are not self-sufficient.

Covering up or lying

If someone you care about is constantly forgetting or skipping important commitments, you might find yourself lying to others on their behalf. While this might seem helpful, or like you’re saving the person some embarrassment or stress, it is not recommended. By hiding your loved one’s addiction, you’re making it less likely they will be held accountable. In order to seek treatment, someone must fully understand the consequences of their substance use issues. It might seem harsh to not cover up for someone you love, but doing so is ultimately counterproductive.


Check out our recent blog on how to support a loved one struggling with addiction.

How can I help? 

Addiction recovery is a group effort

A strong support system can make a huge difference in someone’s recovery. Here are some steps you can take to help someone in your family who is showing signs of an addiction or substance use disorder:

  • Educate yourself. There is plenty of stigma and misunderstanding surrounding addiction and mental illness. Having a better understanding of what your loved one is experiencing physically and mentally will foster empathy and open dialogue. In fact, your loved one might not fully realize that they have an addiction.
  • Express your concerns. If you have an intimate relationship with a person struggling with addiction, you are likely the best person to start this conversation. You don’t have to be an expert, but it is important to tell your loved one how much you care and that they have your support.
  • Support yourself. Supporting a loved one with an addiction can be extremely draining – you don’t have to do it alone. Consider joining a loved one support group like Al-Anon and sharing your experiences in a safe environment. Check to see if your loved one’s treatment program includes family support or therapy.
  • Research treatment options. Certified clinics offer outpatient or inpatient (live-in) treatment options and a variety of different therapies. Whichever facility you choose, make sure the clinicians are accredited and registered with their relevant professional college.

Edgewood Health Network can help

At EHN Canada and EHN Online, we believe that all families impacted by addiction deserve support. Those who participate in our programs can invite loved ones to join monthly online Family Education Workshops and continuing care groups. In these workshops, friends and family can learn to assist their loved ones as they integrate recovery skills into daily life, as well as receive education on how to maintain their own wellbeing along the way. In addition, Family Aftercare is a weekly group offered virtually for family members. 

We make the process of getting the qualified help you need easy. Give us a call to learn more about our services and how we can support you on your journey to recovery. With facilities online and across Canada, we can find a program that’s right for you. 

Bellwood (Toronto, ON): 866-281-3012
Edgewood (Vancouver Island, BC): 604-210-8713
Ledgehill (Lawrencetown, NS): 866-419-4483
Sandstone (Calgary, AB): 866-295-8981
Gateway (Peterborough, Ontario): 705-874-2000
Nouveau Depart (Montreal, Quebec): 866-738-5572
EHN Online: 866-345-8192
Or contact us by email. 

 

After finding the right program, you can get started on your recovery, supported by EHN Canada, a recognized leader in addiction and related mental health services. Wherever your symptoms fall, we can help you find a new and better place to thrive.

Contact us to learn more about our IOPs and Family Programs.

888-767-3711
Book a consultation

Resources to help you:

Info-Social 811
811

ParentsLine
1-800-361-5085

Wellness Space Canada
1-888-417-2074

Al-Anon
Support group for relatives

Sources

APA Dictionary of Psychology – Enabling. (2020). American Psychological Association. https://dictionary.apa.org/enabling.

Juergens, J., & Hampton, D. (2021, May 6). What Is an Enabler? – Stop Enabling Today. Addiction Center. https://www.addictioncenter.com/treatment/stage-intervention/what-is-an-enabler/

5 signs you’re ready for an intensive outpatient program

Posted on by EHN Online

5 signs you’re ready for an intensive outpatient program

Happy Lady on Laptop

When it comes to finding the right program for your recovery, it’s important to note that there are a variety of options available. While some programs don’t recognize things such as your previous experience in therapy, your demanding work schedule, or your commitments at home, an intensive outpatient program (IOP) does, and is a great option for someone looking to recover.

Intensive outpatient programs are full treatment programs that act as a great step up or down from where you currently are in your recovery. They are an accessible and affordable middle ground for people with mild-moderate symptoms of mental health or addiction who may not to to or be able to enter into a residential facility for treatment.

By determining whether an intensive outpatient program is right for you and your lifestyle, you are doing valuable research into the type of program that will benefit you the most. In this blog, we discuss some of the factors that can help you decide whether an IOP is the best choice for you. Keep in mind that not all the points listed below need to apply directly to you for an IOP to still be the right choice. Intensive outpatient programs fit into everyone’s recovery differently.

1. You recently finished inpatient treatment

Recovery is an ongoing process that doesn’t just end when you leave an inpatient program. Entering back into your everyday life presents its own set of challenges to tackle. IOPs offer a gradual step down from the work you have done in a residential facility so that you can maintain your growth with a steady support and education. Choosing an outpatient program that offers structure to your recovery will help you to better navigate the re-entry to your working and living environment and set you up for success in your long-term recovery. For those who have completed inpatient therapy and are asking themselves ‘what now?’ intensive outpatient programs are an excellent next step.

2. You can’t take time off from work or family

While inpatient treatments are an ideal environment for recovery, sometimes it is not feasible for you to enter into one when you are balancing work and family responsibilities. An IOP offers the flexibility you need to maintain your current duties, and the structure you need to meet your recovery goals.

While company assistance varies, there is an increased likelihood that employers will support employees in their rehabilitation process if they are able to continue working while they receive care. Many employers have policies in place to offer flexibility in these circumstances and it is always worth speaking with your boss to see if there is support available, whether it’s financial or otherwise.

Many IOPs can also be completed online, which removes more barriers for those who travel frequently or don’t have access to local outpatient services. Online IOPs allow for even more flexibility when trying to maintain the responsibilities of your daily life.

3. You have tried other methods of support but need more

If you have tried different methods of support such as medication, regular outpatient programs, inpatient treatment, counselling, or an app among others, but have found them to be ineffective on their own, an IOP is a great solution. By strategically bundling all the most effective elements of treatment together, IOPs can offer you a treatment plan that is cohesive and supportive. With individual counselling, group therapy, evidence-based techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy, and an app to tie it all together, the components of intensive programs work together to ensure you have all the support you need. 

4. You need more structure and accountability

Recovery is an uphill battle. Without a set plan to prioritize your healing, it can become difficult to maintain your progress after completing a program. Recovery is a life-long fight that requires consistent attention and support. IOPs can offer the structure you need to support a stable recovery. By connecting you with the right technology, people, and resources, these programs can help you maintain accountability for your personal recovery goals and achieve success. An IOP can offer the support you need, while at the same time, providing the flexibility that you need to maintain your busy schedule.

5. You need more support from loved ones

Our loved ones can be huge factors in our progress and play an important role when it comes to your healing. Those close to us are often very willing to help but may not have the knowledge or understanding to do so. IOPs often include family education and therapy to provide your loved ones and those who support you with the tools they need to effectively support you along your recovery journey. This ensures there is mutual understanding across your entire support team, and that you are in alignment regarding the best course of action. What they learn is cohesive with what you learn!

Still not sure if an IOP is right for you? Take our self-assessment quiz!

If any of the reasons above resonate with you, then an IOP is a great plan to look into. EHN Online’s intensive outpatient programs offer the structure and support that you need to get on track and stay there! Beginning with eight weeks of intensive programming, participants will benefit from a combination of individual counselling, group therapy, family support, education about mental health and addiction, and access to our Wagon app to track progress and practice skills. With ten months of aftercare to follow, you can continue to track your progress on our app and learn from peers in weekly group therapy sessions. This network of assistance helps to ensure that you are never without support. Best of all, IOPs make recovery work with your busy schedule, no matter where you are!

 

Ready to get started? Sign up for an intensive outpatient program today.

Sign Up Online

 

3 simple steps to support your company’s mental health initiatives

Posted on by EHN Online

3 simple steps to support your company’s mental health initiatives

The overall health and success of a workplace relies on both the physical and psychological well-being of its employees. By supporting a healthy and informed environment at work, organizations can set themselves up for success. According to the World Health Organization, the estimated cost to the global economy as a result of anxiety and depression in the workforce is US$ 1 trillion per year in lost productivity. Organizations can play a strong and effective role in promoting positive mental health in the workplace, “for every $1 put into scaled up treatment for common mental disorders, there is a return of $4 in improved health and productivity.” [1]

Providing mental health services to employees results in increased productivity and retention, and a decrease in healthcare costs. But with a wide variety of mental health services becoming more available to the public, how can you determine which solution will be the most effective for your employees and your business? 

Supporting mental health in the workplace – the bottom line

EHN Online has created intensive virtual programs for individuals struggling with mental health and/or addictions. The virtual and flexible nature of the programs allows for patients to continue to work while they access treatment that is intensive enough to create lasting results. With high completion rates and a clear return on investment, intensive outpatient programs can help reduce common costs such as absenteeism and turnover. [2]

 

Circle graphic - 500,000

Canadian workers miss work every week as a result of poor mental health [2]

 circle graphic - 2 times

On average, leaves due to mental illness are roughly double the cost of leaves due to physical illness [3]

Average return on investment in company mental health initiatives after three years [2]

Completion rate for EHN Online’s Intensive Outpatient Program

By setting your employees up for success with their mental health, they will thrive personally and professionally. After all, a company is only as healthy as its employees. 

3 steps to supporting mental health and addiction at work

An important component to an organizational mental health strategy is offering readily available external therapy and rehabilitation to employees. By identifying a need within your company, and determining the best solution for recovery, you can set up your employees and company for success. It is important to recognize that mental health does not come with a one-size-fits-all formula. The best way to ensure that your employees are accessing the necessary resources to improve their mental health is to identify where their needs lie, and how to best address them. 

Step 1: Recognize your employee’s struggles and needs

Do you know how to recognize the signs that your employee’s mental health symptoms are increasing? Mental health resides on a spectrum, and identifying where an employee (or an aggregate of employees) stand is a great first step to knowing how you can best help them. Start by looking at the following chart to consider the types of symptoms, the severity and the frequency in which these may be displayed at work.   

 

Mild Symptoms Moderate Symptoms Severe Symptoms
Function Functioning at work Developed functioning at work and outside of work; absenteeism; presenteeism; increased sick days Low functioning at work or not working
Intensity Mental health symptoms triggered by an event or a situation (work stress, death, divorce, etc.) More frequent and intense mental health episodes Chronic mental health conditions
Use of Services Accessing support services for the first time or again after a break Has accessed or is accessing individual counsellor or digital solutions, but requires more intense and/or more frequent treatment Has accessed intensive mental health support and requires a day program or residential care

 

Step 2: Know your options for offering mental health support

Now that we understand that mental health is a spectrum, it is clear that different approaches need to be taken to experience optimal results for each severity classification. The chart below is a non-exhaustive list of potential solutions that best suit different severities.  

 

Mild symptoms Moderate Symptoms Severe Symptoms
Service options
  • Individual Counselling
  • iCBT
  • Self guided therapy 
  • Wellness apps
  • Peer support groups 
 Combination individual and group therapy program with corresponding digital component (Intensive Outpatient Programs)
  • Partial Hospitalization program 
  • Residential treatment 

 

Step 3: Identify the most effective treatment 

Making the right choice for treatment can significantly affect your ROI. If your offering matches the needs of your company, you will see more success from treatments and increased productivity at work. Intensive Outpatient Programs at EHN Online allows employees to get treatment that fits into their home and work lives. 

By offering a combination of individual and group therapy with evening and daytime options, an IOP can:

  • reduce the cost of treatment 
  • improve outcomes
  • achieve higher completion rates and; 
  • help patients maintain long term progress. 

What is Intensive Outpatient Therapy?

Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) at EHN Online are eight weeks of intensive treatment, four times a week, with both individual and group therapy. For ten months following treatment, patients participate in aftercare, with one virtual group meeting per week and access to the outpatient app, Wagon. This allows patients to track daily progress, achieve their goals, and better communicate with their counsellor. Our in-house clinical team ensures full cohesion across the network, so designated counsellors can join their patients throughout their entire journey to recovery. For corporate and healthcare referrals, our client care specialist is dedicated to ensuring that all reporting requirements are met and open communication exists.

Virtual and intensive therapy offers more structure than individual therapy or wellness apps, and more flexibility than in-person rehabilitation. This allows employees to immediately practice and be held accountable for using the skills learned in therapy to cope and stay at work while they heal. With specialized streams for a variety of disorders, family workshops, a corresponding app with clinically integrated content, and access to registered mental health professionals who are trained in effective online therapy, EHN Online’s IOPs are a high-ROI approach to achieving company workplace health goals. 

Finding success with IOPs

EHN Online’s IOPs for mental health, addiction and workplace trauma are accessible solutions with proven results. Referring an employee to an IOP can help you to continue supporting both your employees and your business.

“We’ve appreciated the high quality of service and the skilfulness of the clinicians to manage complex clients struggling with addictions and mood and anxiety disorders.” – Public mental health service provider

“Bob (EHN Online clinician) supported our client who has struggled in the past to connect with and get treatment from various other providers.” – Law enforcement partner

“EHN has been responsive to our requests to create a treatment schedule that best suits our clients.” – Insurance provider partner

Getting started 

Taking the time to research and understand your options for providing comprehensive mental health solutions to your staff demonstrates that you value your employees and want to see them thrive alongside your business.

Edgewood Health Network and EHN Online are dedicated to ensuring that every patient has access to a personalized recovery process, a therapeutic community, and ongoing treatment to prevent relapse. Call our referral relations team to learn more about our Intensive Outpatient Programs and how we can help you. 

We can help your employees get on the right path to recovery.
Contact us to learn more.

888-767-3711

 

 

[1] World Health Organization. (n.d.). Mental health in the workplace. https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/mental-health-in-the-workplace

[2] Deloitte Insights. (2019). The ROI in workplace mental health programs: Good for people, good for business. Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited. https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/ca/Documents/about-deloitte/ca-en-about-blueprint-for-workplace-mental-health-final-aoda.pdf

[3] Dewa, Chau, and Dermer (2010). Examining the comparative incidence and costs of physical and mental health-related disabilities in an employed population. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 52: 758-62. Number of disability cases calculated using Statistics Canada employment data, retrieved from http://www40.statcan.ca/l01/cst01/labor21a-eng.htm.