As the President & CEO of the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation, I am committed to living the values of our Foundation. On June 10, 2023, I will take on Seek the Peak, a 15-kilometre sea-to-sky adventure race, as part of our month-long campaign, Move For Your Mental Health. This race will test my physical fitness, stamina, and mental strength.

As someone who has lived with anxiety for over 40 years, this will be a challenging yet rewarding experience where I aim to raise $10,000 to support an ongoing partnership with Anxiety Canada to run a MindShift group therapy program exclusively for men.

CMHF and Anxiety Canada successfully launched the first pilot project in January 2023, and the program provided a trusting and comfortable environment for men to improve their mental health. Over 8 weekly virtual meetings, registered clinical counsellors use evidence-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to support men with mild to moderate anxiety to find relief.

The two greatest tools I have had for my anxiety over the last several decades have been exercise and therapy. The reality is that not everyone has the means to access the support they need, and CMHF and our generous partners are committed to changing that. Your donation will enable more men to gain access to these groups who might have been unable to do so otherwise.

Seek the Peak Goal

Why I am participating in the Seek the Peak

The saying ”you need to get comfortable being uncomfortable” resonates with me.

I like a challenge, and I find as I have gotten older, I am more willing to try hard things and test myself. Even on my toughest days, the training takes many of the bad feelings away. I also want to use this opportunity to raise awareness of men’s mental health—that men can still live life to the fullest and do rewarding things while we manage our mental well-being.

My personal journey with anxiety

My own journey with anxiety has been hard, to be honest. I’ve lived with anxiety most of my life as a result of my childhood experiences. At times throughout the last 40 years, it has been milder; at other times, it has been more intense.

When I was much younger, I didn’t know what anxiety was or what you would call it. But looking back, it was clear what I experienced was anxiety. As I got older, I became more aware of the challenges anxiety presented, especially when life stressors became a reality. When the symptoms became more intense, I realized I needed to find ways to see improvement.

I have been committed to finding coping strategies, and one of my coping strategies is exercise. I work out every day for my mental health, like taking my dog out every morning for a walk. You can listen to my story on the Don’t Change Much podcast to learn more about my experience with physical activity and mental wellness.

How therapy has helped me

About 10 or so years ago, I realized I needed more resources to support me. I understood I could no longer figure it out just on my own.

I have been going to the same therapist for over 10 years, and the progress we have made together has had a significant impact on me. We have moved past most of the things we initially started working on, thanks to the committed effort we’ve put in. This has allowed us to make additional discoveries and focus on things that have been even more difficult but very impactful.

One thing that has evolved over the last decade was if I had a previously scheduled therapy session and at the time, if things were ”going well,” I would cancel the appointment. I have not done that now in several years. Even if things seem to be going well at the time, I keep my scheduled session.

Having someone to talk to that knows my history and can hold me accountable has been really beneficial. The sessions have become educational and offer a safe place to discuss anything. I have enjoyed that cadence in my life and am doing what I can to help make talk therapy accessible to more men.

Men don’t openly talk about their health, and I want to lead by example.

Dr. David Kuhl once asked me why I am so open and comfortable sharing my anxiety issues. My late friend, Rick Rypien, who had a goal of helping young people struggling with their mental health, inspired me. We lost Rick on August 15, 2011, to his mental health, but his commitment to helping others still resonates with me today.

I know how challenging living with a mental health issue can be, despite the fact that other aspects of my life are rewarding. By sharing my experiences with other men and families, I hope more men will recognize the need for self-care and take charge of their mental health.

Please consider donating to support men’s mental health

My goal is to help spread the word about men’s mental health and help more men access mental health resources. By supporting my donation goal of $10,000, you are helping to give more men access to the mental health resources they need. Healthy men make healthy families and communities.

LAST UPDATED: September 15, 2023

*This article contains information and links related to residential schools. If you have been affected by residential schools and need emotional or crisis support, contact the 24-Hour Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line at 1-800-721-0066.*

September 30 is National Truth and Reconciliation Day. This date acknowledges the history of residential schools in Canada and honours the Survivors, their families, and the communities that experience ongoing intergenerational trauma. Understanding our shared history helps to create a more inclusive future and ensures that we remember the legacy of the residential schools.

Here are eight suggestions on how you can engage in Truth and Reconciliation:

1. Read and Re-read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission announced 94 Calls to Action in 2015. They provided 94 activities that all levels of government and non-Indigenous and Indigenous communities can support and initiate to set right the legacy of residential schools and advance reconciliation.

The report, published in 2015, is a crucial piece of our shared history and an important read for all settlers in this country to set us on a more inclusive path.

The First Nations Child & Family Caring Society of Canada has created this kid-friendly version of the Calls to Action if you want to learn about them with your younger family members.

2. Learn About Indigenous History and the Residential School System

Head to your local library, search bookstores and scan the internet to learn more about Indigenous history and the residential school system. There are lots of insightful sources out there, including the following:

Websites & Web Resources:

Books:

The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King
Broken Circle: The Dark Legacy of Indian Residential Schools by Theodore Fontaine
The Orange Shirt Story by Phyllis Webstad
21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act: Helping Canadians Make Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples a Reality by Bob Joseph
Standoff: Why Reconciliation Fails Indigenous People and How to Fix It by Bruce McIvor

Courses:

Several Canadian universities offer courses on Indigenous history and residential schools, which are available for free:

Indigenous Canada offered through the University of Alberta
Reconciliation Through Indigenous Education offered through UBC

3. Identify and Acknowledge the Territory Where you Live

Acknowledge the land you live on. Whose Land is a web-based app that identifies Indigenous Nations, territories and communities to help you know where you live, work, and play.

The Government of Canada’s GeoViewer lets you see the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples who live near you.

When you have work meetings or get-togethers, introduce a land acknowledgement at the beginning of your external and internal get-togethers.

You can also text your postal code to 907-312-5085, and it will send you back the acknowledgement of whose land you are on.

4. Listen and Learn

No matter what your knowledge of Indigenous history and the residential school system is, there is no better time to listen and learn from the Indigenous peoples and communities around you.

You can attend workshops and community groups, talk to Elders in your community, and listen to the Indigenous people you know about their history and lived experiences.

5. Attend a National Truth and Reconciliation Week Virtual Event

From September 25 to 30, the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation is hosting a series of events that includes content appropriate for kids in grades 1-12 on the theme of “Remembering the Children.” Check out their schedule and register for events here.

Take a look at your local events calendars, to see what else you and your family can attend in your area.

6. Explore Indigenous Voices

Whether you’re a TV watcher, a podcast listener, or a book reader, there are lots of options out there for you to hear from Indigenous peoples and creators. We’ve provided a few of each below to get you started:

TV Shows & Movies:

Podcasts:

Novels:

Five Little Indians by Michelle Good
Jonny Appleseed by Joshua Whitehead
Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese
Call Me Indian by Fred Sasakamoose
Bone Black by Carol Rose
Mamaskatch: A Cree Coming of Age by Darrel J. Mcleod
If I Go Missing by Brianna Jonnie
Indians Don’t Cry: Gaawiin Mawisiiwag Anishinaabeg by George Kenny
The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline
A Day with Yayah by Nicola I. Campbell (a children’s book)
When We Were Alone by David A. Robertson (a children’s book)
Owls See Clearly at Night by Julie Flett (a children’s book)

7. Support (and Volunteer with) Indigenous Non-profits

There are over 600 Indigenous non-profits you can support in Canada. Check out this list of organizations, find one (or more!) that speaks to you, and reach out to offer your support.

DUDES club, for example, has over 42 locations in BC. They work in communities with high Indigenous populations to promote men’s wellness, “build solidarity and brotherhood, and enable men to regain a sense of pride and purpose in life.”

8. Support Indigenous creators and businesses

Support Indigenous artists, designers, jewellers, restaurants, and other business owners by purchasing products, attending events, following social media accounts, sharing content, and recommending their products and works to friends and family.

Not sure if there are Indigenous-owned businesses near you? The Government of Canada has an Indigenous Business Directory where you can search by city or town and business type.

There are many Indigenous creators on social media platforms that you can follow, including @notoriouscree, @shinanova, @_aysanabee_, @jayroymakokis and @boslen.

What Indigenous non-profits, businesses, and creators do you follow and support? Let us know in the comments below!

As the COVID-19 pandemic grinds on and on (and on), many men are feeling the negative effects on their mental health. Life satisfaction ratings have gone down for Canadians, while rates of psychological distress, anxiety, depression, and substance use have gone up. Many of us are feeling tired, if not exhausted.

Early intervention can help reduce the severity of mental health problems and even prevent them altogether. It is important to be able to spot the beginnings of mental health problems in yourself.

How do we do that? The pandemic has unprecedented impacts on key aspects of life such as health, social connections, mobility, employment, and income.

Even for a mental health professional such as myself, it can be hard to know what is an appropriate, proportional reaction to hard times that needs compassion and time versus mental health changes that require intervention.

My rule of thumb is: when in doubt, check it out. If you notice changes in your thinking, emotions, and behaviour that are intense, excessive, ongoing and/or very unusual, it might be worth talking to someone. If you notice changes in your mental health that are causing distress or interfering and disrupting your life, talking to someone might be in order.

Seeking help when you need it is a power move

Think of it this way. If you are driving your car and it keeps making a ticking sound, you won’t ignore it. You will try to figure out whether it’s a serious problem or not.

While I currently work as a clinical psychologist at a stress and anxiety clinic, my first job was at an automotive service station.

Getting the best performance out of your car or truck is not so different from taking good care of your mental health.

In the same way, as you need to charge your battery or put gas in your tank, you need to recharge and refuel yourself. Self-care and healthy habits such as regular exercise, nutritious eating, getting good quality sleep, connecting with people, having time to yourself, spending time in nature, and engaging in fun activities are good ways to fill up your tank.

In addition to the basics to keep your motor running, regular inspections and tune-ups are also recommended. If you have clocked a lot of kilometres or have been driving in harsh climate conditions, then your vehicle may need more upkeep. Maybe it’s things you can do on your own, such as top up your oil, but other times, you need a professional to help. Professionals have access to specialized tools, not to mention the know-how based on training and experience.

If you’re experiencing a nagging feeling that something is not quite right about your thinking, feelings or behaviour, here are some specific signs it’s time to consider speaking to a therapist:

Sleep, appetite, and hygiene changes

Working from home may have done a number on Canadian grooming habits—there’s been a sharp decline in demand for razors, shampoo and deodorant—but losing all interest in your appearance can be a sign of trouble. The same goes for feeling apathetic about sex or meals, even when your favourite dishes are on the menu, getting less or more sleep than you normally would, and feeling tired more often or more acutely than usual.

You don’t feel like yourself

If you don’t feel quite like yourself or other people are telling you that you don’t seem like yourself, it might be time to reach out for help. It can be difficult to notice changes in our patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving. Changes can sneak up on us. That’s why it’s important to consider the feedback of others.

If people note that you don’t seem like yourself, express concern over your unhealthy behaviour—drinking too much alcohol is a good example—or notice that you’re missing work or withdrawing from social contact, treat their observations as opportunities to take stock of how you are acting. Ask yourself: Am I feeling down, angry or anxious more often than not? Have most of my comments to others become negative? Do I still find things fun or interesting? These are all warning signs.

Intense or persistent negative feelings

It is perfectly normal to feel negative emotions. In fact, it is healthy to feel negative emotions that fit the facts of the situation. However, if you feel excessive, persistent or very intense negative feelings such as anxiety, sadness, anger, irritability, guilt, or shame, it can be a sign of a problem.

If you feel like you are “stuck” in one or more negative emotions, if they are happening all of the time, if they come out in outbursts, or are more intense than makes sense for the situation, then it may be time to talk to someone about it.

Nothing seems interesting anymore

When you lose interest in activities you previously enjoyed—hobbies, sports and even sex—or spending time with friends or family, this may be a sign that you are struggling. Some things ARE less fun in COVID times, but there’s a difference between wanting to skip an activity if dancing is not allowed and not being able to find anything at all that engages you.

Have a hard time with daily functioning

It’s normal to struggle during hard times. But if you’re finding it difficult to do things you used to be able to do and can’t figure out any reason why this is the case, mental health problems could be the culprit. Anxiety can creep in and make every situation seem dangerous. Navigating with depression on board can be like driving in a white-out. It’s hard to see clearly. Take notice if you’re having difficulties performing or starting familiar tasks at home, at work, or at school. Also, notice if you are finding your personal relationships more challenging than usual.

Thinking problems

It’s normal to worry a little bit about the week ahead or feel regret for things in the past. But excessive negative thinking—including worrying about the future or ruminating on the past—can start to dominate everything else. When your thoughts cause you a lot of distress or start to interfere with your day-to-day functioning (like work and sleeping), that is a sign you should talk it out with somebody.

Our thought processes can also be clues. Inexplicable difficulties paying attention, concentrating or remembering things are not only frustrating, but they can be yellow flags too. Anxiety and depression can disrupt cognitive processes, as can sleep disruption.

Using substances to manage stress

We usually don’t seek out to engage in behaviours that make our problems or health worse. But, sometimes, we find ourselves using substances or avoidance to manage stress rather than engaging in more science-backed strategies such as problem-solving, emotion regulation, acceptance, and interpersonal effectiveness. Healthy habits can either go out the window or start becoming something you do compulsively. If your solutions or coping strategies have become a problem, it’s time to seek help.

Next steps

COVID times are hard. It’s difficult to know whether you need a service stop or whether you have run out of road. Spotting one or more of the signs mentioned in this article doesn’t necessarily mean your mental health is in jeopardy. It simply means it’s time to find ways to support and improve it. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to make this happen, from arranging a consultation with your doctor or a mental health specialist to taking the free MindFit Toolkit for a spin.

Designed with the help of psychologists and elite athletes, the MindFit Toolkit is a simple way to start improving your mental health. From inspiring blogs to stress-busting audio exercises to soothing soundscapes, the MindFit Toolkit will help you cope with stress and anxiety.

Keep your motor running smoothly. For those who like to do their own maintenance and repairs, Give the MindFit Toolkit a try right now!

If you think you could benefit from a professional’s point of view and expertise, reach out to Wellness Together Canada to get free support 24/7.

If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call the Canada Suicide Prevention Service at +1 (833) 456-4566 any time day or night or chat online. In Quebec, you can call 1-866-277-3553.

MindFit ToolKit

Build the skills to cope with stress and anxiety with these free online tools and resources. Start improving your mental health to help you handle whatever life throws at you.

Get the toolkit

As the season of giving gets underway and we move through Black Friday and Cyber Monday, there’s one day that’s even more important: the 10th annual Giving Tuesday on November 30, 2021.

Giving Tuesday is a global movement focused on generosity. It provides a platform for charities, companies, families, and individuals to come together and bring about positive change in our communities.

At CMHF, support from individuals like you is essential to creating lasting, meaningful health changes for men and their families.

We know that 72% of Canadian men have unhealthy habits, putting them at risk for chronic conditions and disease. This Giving Tuesday, we can continue to inspire more men to make small changes that can have a big impact on their health, and we need your help.

Donate Now

What does the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation do?

We create e-health resources backed by independent scientific research. These resources promote healthy lifestyle behaviours that improve the quality of life for men today and reduce their risk for chronic diseases.

Our initiatives include:

How are funds used?

As a registered national charity, we rely on support from our donors to operate and provide our programs and services to Canadian men free of charge. Your donations are essential in furthering men’s health programming, tool development, and research.

When you donate, your funds are invested into the community by providing expanded, enhanced, and new innovative programming for men and their families.

Rising to the Challenge During Covid-19

The Covid-19 pandemic has increased the daily stress and anxiety for countless families. The impact on mental and physical health has been profound. CMHF supports men’s mental well-being by providing year-round access to guy-friendly tools designed to strengthen their minds and normalize feelings around mild to moderate stress, anxiety, and loneliness.

Why give to CMHF?

Through the Don’t Change Much Impact Study, we’ve learned that men saw significant changes in their lifestyles. 75% of those surveyed saw improved eating habits, 45% drank less alcohol, 70% increased their physical activity, 46% lost weight, and 35% reduced their stress levels.

“I found it very helpful to read stories about men’s health. It provided me with the motivation I needed to make changes and get my overall health to a better place.”
Joshus Kubinec, DCM Subscriber

We’ve heard from many men like Joshua about how small health changes can positively impact their lives.

Donate to support healthier lives for men and families

Men’s Health is the “missing piece to the puzzle of family health.” By donating to CMHF, you enable the Foundation to expand and enhance its unique brand of chronic disease prevention and mental health programming with a wide range of lasting benefits for families, businesses, health care and Canada’s economic future. Supporting better health among men leads to better families, better communities, and better economies.

On this Giving Tuesday, we turn to you to help us continue to have an impact.

Giving Tuesday Men's Health — Consider donating to Men’s Health this Giving Tuesday

This year, you can make a gift in honour of someone special. We all have a man in our life who could use a little support when it comes to their health. What’s more, when you join CMHF’s The Changemakers, you will be part of a special group of monthly donors who positively impact men’s health all year round.

Together, we can help Canadian men and their families make positive lifestyle changes that significantly impact their health.

To share CMHF and its resources, tag us on Facebook, Twitter, Linked In, and Instagram—and Don’t Change Much on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Donate Now

As a pharmacist, educator, and writer, I’ve been getting all kinds of questions about the COVID-19 vaccine. Whether you’re wondering if the vaccine can make you sick, how it works, or what you can do after you get fully vaccinated, I’m here to give you the answers you’re looking for.

First, let’s talk about something many of us have experienced: COVID-19 pandemic-induced stress. Second, if you’ve gotten both doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine, congratulations! Check out what you are able to do below!

Stress during the pandemic

Pandemic-induced stress is real. I often find myself pouring through research from every corner of the internet, including journal articles and resources that my peers send me about COVID-19. The truth is, it can get overwhelming, and feeling overwhelmed can quickly turn into undue stress.

While you’re waiting in the invisible line-up for a COVID-19 vaccine and managing a new way of life, the build-up of stress can take a toll on you. Men’s mental health is often ignored and is something many of us are trying to deal with right now.

If you have an activity that brings you a sense of calm or have ways to relax, try to keep them a part of your daily routine. If you’re looking for tips and resources to manage stress and mental health, check out the Mental Health First Aid COVID-19 Self-Care & Resilience Guide. British Columbia’s virtual mental health support during COVID-19 and BC211 are also great resources.

Sometimes having access to the right information in one place can help reduce the stress associated with uncertainty regarding the pandemic and the COVID-19 vaccines developed to combat this virus.

Who should get the COVID-19 vaccine?

Almost everyone should get the COVID-19 vaccine when it’s their time to do so. Immunize BC says that if you do not have any allergies to the ingredients in a COVID-19 vaccine and have not experienced a life-threatening reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, you can get vaccinated.

You’ll also need to be over the minimum age requirement and not have symptoms of COVID-19 at the time of vaccination. “With every person who receives a vaccine, our entire province becomes that much safer,” says Dr. Bonnie Henry, Provincial Health Officer for British Columbia.

Health Canada has approved the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for use in children and youth 12 years of age and older.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunizations (NACI) has released a statement mentioning that use of the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding is recommended based on research from the United States. The new data suggests that mRNA vaccines are safe for this population.

Vaccine exceptions

Children and youth

Children under the age of 12 are not approved to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine at this time.

Children and youth under the age of 18 are not approved to receive the Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, or AstraZeneca/Oxford, COVID-19 vaccine at this time.

Immunocompromised

Currently, there is not enough information to determine if a person who is immunocompromised should or should not get vaccinated. People who fall into this group can get help making this decision by speaking with a local healthcare provider they trust.

Allergies

If you have a severe allergy to any component of the vaccine, to polyethylene glycol, or have shown an immediate allergic response to polysorbate (which has cross-reactivity with polyethylene glycol) you should speak to your healthcare provider to determine if the COVID-19 vaccine is appropriate for you.

Be part of the herd—We’re in this together

Now that you know there are some people who may not be able to get the vaccine, it’s important that everyone who can get vaccinated does get vaccinated. This way, we can work together to protect the people who can’t get the vaccine. That’s called herd immunity.

In a really, really basic sense, it’s kind of like when you’re watching National Geographic and you see lions on the hunt and then the bigger, stronger elephants create a shield around the smaller elephants to protect them from the attack because the smaller elephants could never protect themselves on their own.

Herd immunity, described by the World Health Organization, “is the indirect protection from an infectious disease that happens when a population is immune either through vaccination or immunity developed through previous infection.”

Alright, now here are the answers to the “Top COVID-19 Vaccine Questions”:

How to get your COVID-19 vaccination in your province or territory:

Ongoing distribution concerns may have delayed when we can get our vaccines. However, things are improving. It’s very important to keep up-to-date with the latest information in your province or territory so you can be ready to book your appointment as soon as your region announces you can do so. The Government of Canada’s Vaccines for COVID-19 page offers quick links to relevant information you can use right now.

What comes after you get your first COVID-19 vaccine shot?

If you’ve already received your first dose, you may be wondering what comes next. Depending on where you are in the country, you’ll be able to get your second dose 8-16 weeks after your first dose.

You may have received the following email or text message from the BC government:

“Records show that you received AstraZeneca as your first vaccine dose. You’re one step away from being fully vaccinated. Second dose invitations will start being sent 8 weeks after your first dose.”

When it comes to your second dose in BC, you can choose one of these options:

Get AstraZeneca/Oxford at a pharmacy. The pharmacy that provided your first dose will contact you to book an appointment. No action is required on your part.
Get Pfizer-BioNTech(mRNA) or Moderna (mRNA) at a vaccine clinic. You will receive a text or email letting you know it is your time to book.

To find out how to book your appointment and more information about your second vaccine shot in BC, please visit https://gov.bc.ca/dose2#az.

Should you be concerned about the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine?

The short answer is no. Dr. Bonnie Henry, BC’s Provincial Health officer, is reassuring everyone that the AstraZeneca vaccine is safe and has released this video:

Can you mix the COVID-19 vaccines?

Canada is now recommending to mix and match the AstraZeneca/Oxford, Moderna, and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines.

If the first vaccine you got was from AstraZeneca/Oxford, then your second vaccine can be from AstraZeneca/Oxford, Pfizer-BioNTech, or Moderna. If the first vaccine you got was from Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna, it is recommended to complete your second dose with either one of these two mRNA vaccines. At this time, these vaccines are only interchangeable in this particular way. Read more about the interchangeability of the vaccines here.

Based on research from Spain and the United Kingdom, mixing shots is safe and effective.

Here’s more information about trigger point immune responses.

Can you get COVID from the COVID-19 vaccine?

No. You cannot get infected with COVID from the COVID-19 vaccine. Since the vaccines currently available in Canada are not live vaccines, they cannot cause the disease they are designed to protect you from.

Are there side effects you can get from the COVID-19 vaccine?

While there are some side effects people may experience from the COVID-19 vaccine, they’re often mild and go away within a few days. The most common side effects are redness, soreness, or swelling where you received the injection, as well as feeling tired (fatigue), headache, fever or chills, body aches or sore joints. Some people may not experience any side effects at all, while other people might experience one or more side effects.

How is the COVID-19 vaccine administered?

The COVID-19 vaccines available in Canada, at this time, are administered as an intramuscular injection. Most people will get the injection in their arm, like a typical, routine vaccine. Some vaccines are given in two doses and others are given as one dose.

Each dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, and AstraZeneca/Oxford COVID-19 vaccine are given several weeks apart. The time between doses may vary across Canada.

The Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine is given in one dose.

How does the COVID-19 vaccine work?

The first dose helps the immune system create a response against the virus, and the second dose further boosts the immune response, which helps ensure long-term protection. Vaccines that come in a single dose aim to create a response strong enough at one time so that a second dose is not required.

Both the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines are messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines. These vaccines contain instructions to make a protein that is found on the surface of the virus that causes COVID-19. Using our body to make the protein triggers our immune system to create antibodies against it.

The Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca/Oxford COVID-19 vaccines are viral vector vaccines. These vaccines use the harmless adenovirus as a delivery system to help bring important protein-building instructions into our cells. With this information, our body can make the specific protein it needs in order to trigger an immune response. Then our immune systems will have effectively created antibodies against the virus.

To clear things up, the adenovirus used in these vaccines are viruses that can cause the common cold and have been used for decades as a way to deliver instructions for proteins.

If the real virus ever enters our body, in the future, our body will trigger an immune response in order to fight the infection regardless of which vaccine we received.

How protected are you after the first dose of the vaccine?

It’s always important to receive both vaccine doses in a series if they are designed to be delivered that way in order to reap the maximum benefit and long-term effectiveness.

After the first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, it was shown to be up to 52% effective vs. up to 95% effective after the second dose.

After the first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine it was shown to be up to 80.2% effective vs. up to 95.6% effective after the second dose.

After the first dose of the AstraZeneca/Oxford COVID-19 vaccine, it was shown to be up to 62% effective vs. up to 70-80% effective after the second dose.

The Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine is a one-dose vaccine that showed an overall efficacy of up to 66% and up to 85% efficacy in severe cases.

Can you still carry and spread the virus if you’ve been vaccinated?

After you get vaccinated, it’s still possible that you can get infected and then spread COVID-19. This could be because you were infected just prior to getting the vaccine or because you got infected during the period you received the vaccine to when the vaccine developed enough immunity in your body. Usually, the vaccine takes a few weeks to help your body develop its defences.

Is it better to get the COVID-19 vaccine or get the actual virus and to build your immunity?

The best way to protect yourself from the COVID-19 virus is to get vaccinated. While not everyone who is infected with the COVID-19 virus will die, many people can get severely ill, may be hospitalized, and may even experience permanent organ damage.

The risk of trying to build our own immunity through exposure to the virus vs. getting vaccinated isn’t worth the damage it can do to your overall health. Simply put, getting the COVID-19 vaccine is much safer than risking infection from the actual virus.

Can you get the COVID-19 vaccine during Ramadan?

Yes, you can get the COVID-19 vaccine during Ramadan. Getting this vaccine will not “break” your fast. Since the COVID-19 vaccine is delivered as an intramuscular injection and does not provide any nutritional support, it is not considered sustenance or food, making it permissible to get during Ramadan. The National Muslim Task Force on COVID-19 issued a press release on April 6th, 2021, outlining how to have a safe Ramadan and clarification that the COVID-19 vaccines currently available are halal.

How much does the COVID-19 vaccine cost?

The Government of Canada makes it clear that the COVID-19 vaccine will be free for all Canadians with an added commitment for low and middle income economies around the world to also have access to these vaccines.

For our neighbours to the South, the CDC mentions that Americans will be able to receive the vaccine at no cost. Providers of the vaccine can charge an administration fee; however, no American will be denied the COVID-19 vaccine if they cannot afford the vaccine administration fee.

When can you get the COVID-19 vaccine?

Depending on your age, type of work you do, and where you live, your ability to get the COVID-19 vaccine will be different. Across Canada, the plan to distribute vaccines focuses on reaching residents and staff of shared living settings that provide care for seniors, adults age 70 and older, with priority given to adults over 80 years of age, healthcare workers who have direct contact with patients, and adults in Indigenous communities.

British Columbia has designed a plan with projected dates for whom in their province will receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The province will focus on certain priority groups and aims to make vaccinations available to members of the general public, aged 18-59, from July to September 2021. Dr. Bonnie Henry expects to have vaccines available to everyone by next fall.

What can you do after you’ve been vaccinated?

Remember, even after being vaccinated, it is important to practice physical distancing, hand hygiene and to continue wearing face masks to stop any potential spread of this virus in many instances. For more information, check out the BC Center for Disease Control.

The Government of Canada has released new information regarding what you can do if you are partially or fully vaccinated but still recommends following your local public health guidelines for additional guidance specific to your area.

If you have received both doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine in Canada and are participating in an activity at least 14 days after completion of both doses, you do not have to wear a mask or physically distance yourself when you are:

Outdoors with a small group of fully vaccinated individuals (ie. outdoor bbq, picnic, camping, swimming)
Indoors with a small group of fully vaccinated individuals (ie. small dinner party, watching sports on TV, sharing a hug)
Outdoors with people from multiple households who are partially or fully vaccinated or their vaccine status is unknown (ie. outdoor wedding, child’s outdoor birthday party, playing a close contact sport)

Even if you have received both doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine in Canada, there are some activities where it is recommended that you still wear a mask and physically distance yourself if possible, like when you are:

Indoors with people from multiple households who are partially or fully vaccinated or their vaccine status is unknown (ie. attending places of worship, private celebrations or ceremonies, using a fitness facility)
Indoors or outdoors in a large crowd where people are closely gathering (ie. large house party, concert, sporting event)

For more information about what you can do safely, if you are not vaccinated or are partially vaccinated, check out the awareness resource published by the Government of Canada.

COVID-19 additional support

While trying your best to help others, it’s equally important to watch out for yourself and monitor your stress and overall wellness. Oftentimes, stress is linked to financial uncertainty. One way to manage this uncertainty is to take advantage of financial support programs created by the Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia. Some of these financial support benefits are listed below:

Lastly, if anyone asks you if the COVID-19 vaccines can change your DNA, just let them know that would be pretty wild. These vaccines cannot alter your DNA.

Where do you find information about COVID-19 vaccines? What do you like to do to help reduce stress during the COVID-19 pandemic? Let us know in the comments below!

This article was originally published February 4, 2021. We update it regularly to bring you the latest information on COVID-19 vaccines.

Men’s Health Month: Move for Your Mental Health

With summer officially here, we are looking forward to warmer days and longer nights. We hope you had the opportunity to take part in our first-ever Men’s Health Month this June and that you can keep some of the momentum going all summer long.

Move for Your Mental Health was a series of speaker events and workout videos to get men and their families talking, learning, and moving. Collectively, we achieved our highest engagement levels ever, reached more men and their families and together with our partners, we delivered content that positively impacted so many. If you took the Move Pledge, keep going, challenge your friends and make this summer about meaningful connections and activity.

Canadians Care About Men’s Mental Health

We want to thank our growing community for supporting us this Men’s Health Month. So many of you joined us for meaningful conversations, fun workouts, set your own move pledges, shared tips and resources, and helped us raise funds for men’s mental health services.

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Our Impact numbers. Here’s what we achieved:

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It’s clear from these numbers just how many of you care and want to support the mental wellbeing of Canadian men and their families. Together, we accomplished a lot.

Men’s Health Champions

This year, we were joined by many well-known Canadians, decorated TV and radio broadcasters, and health experts from the medical community who lent their voices to the campaign. Thanks to their incredible support, we were able to reach and help even more Canadians with our messages.

We’d like to give special shout outs this year to Kevin Bieksa, Trevor Linden, Kelly Hrudey, Kaitlin Jones, Simon Whitfield, Shea Emry, Tommy Europe, Dan Murphy, Buzz Bishop, Farhan Lalji, James Cybulski, Toby Hargrave, Dr. Melanie Badali, Dr. Gordon Asmundson, Dr. Robert Selles, and Dr. Maureen Whittal.

Partner Acknowledgments

In life, we can only go so far on our own, and we know we can’t accomplish our goals without the support of great partners. We acknowledge and thank all of our partners and supporters that made Men’s Health Month such a success. They are as committed as we are to helping spread the message of the importance of men talking about mental health issues and how moving for your mental health can help.

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Men’s Mental Health Videos on Demand

Our speaker event series and workout videos are now available anytime on demand. In case you missed the Men’s Health Month events, here’s a recap:

01.

How to Start A Conversation About Mental Health

Featuring Kevin Bieksa, Dan Murphy, and Dr. Melanie Badali

Sportsnet’s Dan Murphy leads the conversation as former NHL defenseman and current Hockey Night in Canada studio analyst Kevin Bieksa discusses his close relationship with Rick Rypien during his struggles with mental health.

Joined by Anxiety Canada Board Director and Registered Psychologist Dr. Melanie Badali, we dive into how to start a conversation with men about mental health and support someone who confides in you about their mental health challenges.

02.

The Power of Movement

Featuring Trevor Linden, Simon Whitfield, James Cybulski, and Dr. Gordon Asmudson

Award-winning sports broadcaster James Cybulski leads the conversation about how exercise can help men’s mental health. Longtime NHL Player and Executive Trevor Linden and four-time Olympian Simon Whitfield talk about how they incorporate physical activity into their daily lives.

Joined by Anxiety Canada Scientific Committee Member and Registered Doctoral Psychologist Dr. Gordon Asmundson, we look at the scientific research and recommendations on using physical activity as a tool to manage stress and anxiety.

03.

Parenting with Anxiety

Featuring Kelly Hrudey, Kaitlin Jones, Buzz Bishop, and Dr. Robert Selles

Radio Broadcaster and CMHF Champion Buzz Bishop leads the conversation as Hockey Night in Canada Studio Analyst and Anxiety Canada Champion Kelly Hrudey and his daughter, Kaitlin Jones, share their experiences managing anxiety as a family.

Joined by Anxiety Canada Scientific Committee Member and Registered Psychologist Dr. Robert Selles, we dive into the recommendations and resources available for parenting a child with anxiety and how to parent with your own anxiety.

04.

How to Be Together While Apart

Featuring Shea Emry, Farhan Lalji, and Dr. Maureen Whittal

TSN National Reporter Farhan Lalji leads the conversation as former CFL All-Star Shea Emry shares some of his own experiences during the pandemic.

Joined by Anxiety Canada Scientific Committee Co-Chair and Psychologist Dr. Maureen Whittal, we dive into the recommendations and resources available for those struggling with feeling isolated or lonely and explore how to stay connected to friends and family.

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Four Part Workout Series — led by CFL Champ Tommy Europe

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Every Saturday in June, we premiered one of four 30-minute workout videos led by CFL champ Tommy Europe. This workout series was designed to get you moving no matter where you are in your fitness journey.

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Men’s Health Month Today and Beyond

Move for Your Mental Health was CMHF’s first annual Men’s Health Month, building on the success of previous Men’s Health Weeks. We are dedicated to helping men and their families who have faced challenges with stress and anxiety

The pandemic has increased the daily stress and anxiety for countless families, and the impact on mental and physical health is profound. For many men, stress and anxiety are nothing new. However, the pandemic has created an opportunity to talk about it more openly. We want men to know that they’re not alone and that physical activity each day can improve their sense of wellbeing, helping them feel better.

Even though the pandemic will come to an end, men’s mental health struggles will not. We will strive to continue providing information to support men’s mental health in the coming months and years.

If you like what you saw this Men’s Health Month and you’d like to see us continue this important work, please consider donating. As a national, registered charity, we rely on the generosity and support of people like you. Remember to join us in June 2022 for the next annual Men’s Health Month.

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Healthier Men Mean Stronger Families and Communities

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Canadian Men’s Health Foundation

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5 Tips for People Who Want to Help

How do you start a conversation with a male friend or loved one who you think might be struggling with a mental health problem or mental illness? Sometimes the topic comes up easily and naturally. Other times, not so much.

You know Kevin Bieksa as a hard-hitting Hockey Night in Canada commentator and a former Vancouver Canucks defenseman. What you might not know is that Kevin has been a staunch advocate for mental health awareness ever since his friend and teammate Rick Rypien passed away in 2011.

Kevin understands that men have a challenging time speaking about mental health. The stigma around men talking about mental health often holds them back from being open and honest about their feelings.

Stigma and a lack of psychological safety for many men can make the topic of mental health seem taboo. Fortunately, things are changing, and we can be part of that change. Mental health IS health.

I had the opportunity to sit down and chat with Kevin about his experiences for Men’s Health Month. Watch the full video of the Men’s Health Month exclusive speakers event where Kevin and I discuss this challenging yet important topic:

Or you can listen to the audio track on SoundCloud.

Do you want to know how to talk to men about their mental health and well-being?

Here are five tips to help you START:

S: SET THE STAGE. Set the stage for psychological safety for the person you are approaching and for success by informing yourself about mental health and available resources. Turn to organizations that offer science-based sources of information and are not trying to sell you anything. For example, if you want to learn more about anxiety, check out free resources at www.anxietycanada.com. Government, hospital and university websites are usually also good sources of information. Avoid personal blogs or sites where there is a push for you to buy quick-fix products. Knowledge is power, and some people may need informational support in addition to emotional, social, or practical support.

T: TIMING. Choose a time when you can devote your full attention to the other person. Pick a space or activity such as walking where the person is most likely to feel comfortable and minimize distractions. Put your phone on mute.

A: ASK. Ask open-ended questions. Open questions invite the other person to tell their story in their own words. “How are you holding up under all the pressure of __________ (e.g. living through a pandemic, having a demanding job, being a new father).” Keep in mind that you may need to ask the same question more than once. “What’s *really* going on for you?” “How can I help you with __________?” You may want to remind the person that you are trustworthy, care, and love them no matter what they say. In addition to asking open-ended questions, you also need to listen to what the other person has to say in response.

R: REFLECT. Reflective listening is a skill that engages a person and builds trust. Reflective listening helps us avoid assuming what a person needs or misinterpreting what a person is sharing with you. A phrase you can use is: “It sounds like you….” Here you can repeat, rephrase, paraphrase, or reflect a feeling, depending on what you think would be most appropriate at the moment. Avoid giving advice at this time unless you are asked for it. Not giving advice may be hard because you care and want to help. You may want to “fix” things—resist this temptation. Try to think of this first conversation as planting seeds in a garden and only beginning the process.

T: THINK about how you would want someone to talk to you if you were struggling. Think about people you feel most comfortable confiding in or asking for help. How do they talk? What do they say? What are the non-verbal signs of communication? Chances are they express empathy and provide affirmations of your strengths and the positive things you are doing. They probably don’t blame, label, argue, or judge you. Choose your words carefully and compassionately.

Remember that this is the START of a conversation—don’t stop here. Offer support and follow-up. Let the person know you are there for them and seek support for yourself, too, if needed. There is a lot of stigma around men’s mental health, and it’s up to us to help change that.

Resources:

With dads being such an important part of the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation audience, the decision to add Buzz Bishop, broadcaster, father of 2, and wellness advocate, as a Champion was a natural fit.

Buzz is a three-time Guinness World Record holder. The first record was for being part of the largest group of men to have a PSA test for prostate cancer. The second was for being in the crowd throwing the most teddy bears on the ice at a hockey game. And the third? Find out in this “Fast Facts” Q&A:

Q: Why is men’s health important to you?

A: I think we take things for granted, us guys. Women are put into a routine of regular checkups from an early age, while men just cruise along. However, once you reach a certain age, the warranties expire, and you can’t just ignore them.

I want to inspire more men to talk about their health with their peers, pay attention when things aren’t going the way they should (or used to), and stop procrastinating when something needs to get checked. From mental health to exercise, we can do a better job of supporting each other to look after ourselves.

Q: What can viewers expect from your upcoming “Parenting with Anxiety” event set to premiere on June 16?

A: I can’t wait to talk to Kelly (Hrudey) and his daughter on this topic. My youngest son deals with anxiety in his life, and I have had many moments of self-doubt myself. The pandemic has thrown many unknowns into our lives. I’m looking forward to hearing about how Kelly and his family rise above them.

Don’t miss Parenting with Anxiety, a virtual event hosted by Buzz in conversation with Kelly Hrudey, Kaitlin Jones, and Dr. Robert Selles on June 16, 2021. Sign up now at no cost to you!

Q: You have a Guinness World Record for the Longest Game of Netball. What was it like to win that record, and what did it teach you about getting more active?

A: Netball is a game played mainly by women in Commonwealth countries—there’s even a pro league in Australia! A net is placed on a pole on each end of the court like basketball without a backboard. Players can only move in certain zones, and you are limited to one step once you catch a pass. It’s a tight and competitive game, and I was thrilled to have been invited to play for the record by Martin Parnell.

Martin once ran 250 marathons in a year to raise $250,000 for Right to Play and set a goal the next year to break world records while raising money. His whole mission is to inspire people to be active and achieve their greatness.

It was a fantastic experience, and while setting a Guinness World Record was a thrill, I think anyone can use “breaking a record” as motivation. Whether it’s running a faster 5k or setting a new “personal best” for the most blocks walked, any healthy achievement is worthy of celebration. Small changes can make a big difference!

Make Your Move Pledge for Your Mental Health

Get Active

We all know it’s good for us. The uncertainty, the health safety concerns, and the lockdowns have been challenging for everyone. Stress and anxiety levels have increased while Canadians are learning to cope with our new reality. Getting active is a healthy outlet. Make your move pledge and get involved in a good cause.

Make Your Move Pledge

A: I’ve spent a lot of time at home with the same three other people. We have been very tight in our bubble, and while I’m grateful to have a healthy family, it’s starting to feel like Groundhog Day.

To escape, I grab my AirPods and go for a long walk through a nearby forest or plugin on my Peloton for a hard ride. It’s been a grind, but finding time for myself away from everyone else has been important to keeping healthy, active, and refreshed.

Q: In the nineties, during your years as a young broadcaster, what was the most memorable interview you did, and what was one stand-out moment you remember from it?

A: I was lucky to work at a top radio station during an amazing era of pop music. Destiny’s Child, Britney Spears, the Backstreet Boys, Puff Daddy, Gwen Stefani, the Spice Girls, Savage Garden, Alanis, Robbie Williams, and more either visited the studio or called in.

My favourite, however, was a 20-minute chat with Janet Jackson as she rolled around the city, picking up her dancers before heading to a rehearsal. She was cheerful, candid, flirtatious, and perfect.

You can check out Buzz’s radio shows by tuning in to Mornings with Heather and Buzz on XL 103 in Calgary or to weekend shows on Z95-3 in Vancouver. You’ll see his outgoing, adventurous, and engaging personality shine through. No wonder his popular DadCAMP blog has built such a strong network of dads sharing stories and supporting each other.

Register now and attend the Parenting with Anxiety virtual event hosted by Buzz in conversation with Kelly Hrudey, Kaitlin Jones, and Dr. Robert Selles on June 16, 2021.

Check out all of the Men’s Health Month Virtual Events.

You might know Kevin Bieksa as the physical NHL defenseman who skated with the Vancouver Canucks for over 10 seasons, spent another few years with the Anaheim Ducks, and now as a Hockey Night in Canada studio analyst.

What you might not know is that Kevin is very active as a mental health speaker and advocate. Which makes this busy father of two the perfect fit to be one of the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation’s newest men’s health Champions. We had a chance to sit down with Kevin to learn a bit more about him.

Q: Why is men’s health important to you?

A: I’ve always been committed to my health and the health of my family. Growing up, I understood that I needed to take care of both my physical and mental health to be at my best. Staying active and training hard were keys to my professional development. I’m close with my family, including my two brothers, and their health is very important to me.

Q: What can viewers expect from your upcoming event, “How to Start a Conversation About Mental Health?” set to premiere on June 2, 2021?

A: I’ve been honest and open about my journey with friends and family and the challenges that mental health has had on our lives. People know how close I was with Rick Rypien as teammates and how much we tried to help him with his struggles.

In this upcoming event, I’ll be speaking about my passion for helping others who may be facing similar challenges. I want people to know that asking for help is a sign of strength. It’s the right thing to do, and there are people who want to help.

Q: The Canucks were a progressive organization when you played for them. Can you tell us a bit about the group dynamics and the importance of positive culture?

A: We had a special group of players, coaches, and staff during my time with the Canucks. In many ways, it feels like our core group grew up together. A number of us got married and started families during the time we played together.

We pushed each other to be the best we could be and were almost successful in our ultimate goal. We had a lot of individual and team successes during those ten years. It was really a fun group to be part of.

Q: Is it true you went skating for the first time on a lake in Ontario when you were only 18 months old? When did you know that hockey was something you were going to pursue as a career?

A: Yes. Growing up in a hockey-mad province and in Canada with two brothers, hockey was our life. I felt fortunate to get an education and play hockey at the same time. I believed it would set me up for success.

I was also very fortunate to make a living doing something I loved to do as a kid. Playing the game I love and doing it in Canada, where it matters so much to people, was a great experience.

Q: When it comes to your health, what is a common struggle you face and what are some ways you work through it?

A: Finding balance. I have a lot on the go right now. I have a wife and two kids. I operate a high-performance hockey academy, and I work with Hockey Night in Canada. Ensuring I find time for everyone, including myself, is the key.

That’s why physical activity is so important. Every day I prioritize exercise because it helps me with all of the other aspects of my life. We live in California, and the great weather helps us get outside and be active as much as possible.

Following Rick’s passing, Kevin frequently spoke out in support of Foundry. This website provides BC teens and young adults with a reliable, easy-to-use, and interactive place to check out how they’re feeling and connect with support early and quickly. Foundry content includes self-check quizzes, information pages, resources, and links. It can be found here: foundrybc.ca.

You can also learn more about Kevin’s high-performance West Coast Academy in Irvine, CA that helps kids reach their highest potential in hockey and in life.

Watch On-Demand: How to Start A Conversation About Mental Health with Kevin Bieksa

What do you do when someone you care about confides in you about their stress and anxieties?

In this 45-minute virtual speaker series, Sportsnet’s Dan Murphy leads the conversation as former NHL defenseman and current Hockey Night in Canada studio analyst Kevin Bieksa discusses his close relationship with Rick Rypien during his struggles with mental health.

Joined by Anxiety Canada Board Director and Registered Psychologist Dr. Melanie Badali, we dive into how to start a conversation about mental health and support someone who confides in you about their mental health challenges.

Watch the Video on Demand

Check out all of the Men’s Health Month Virtual Events.

Life can be a bowl of cherries in June: golf is in full swing, barbecues are sizzling, and friends are sipping sweet lemonade together. But this roller coaster year is different. Stress, anxiety, and loneliness are at an all-time high for Canadian men and their families since the pandemic started.

That’s why “Move for Your Mental Health” is the focus of Canadian Men’s Health Month 2021. As fellow Canadians, we’re encouraging you to get active, get informed, and improve your mental health this June. Attend a virtual speaker event with star athletes, professional broadcasters and experts, join an easy fitness class, make a fun move pledge, or do all of it!

Registration is now open for events running throughout June, so what are you waiting for? Let’s do this!

Coping. It’s Kind of a Big Deal

Men are hit especially hard because they are hesitant to get help and feel like they need to be seen as strong and “tough it out.” Statistics show that guys only account for 30 percent of people who use mental health support services. We need to do better! That’s why delivering services online where a man can access them anonymously is an important part of the solution.

The good news: the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation and Anxiety Canada have joined forces to improve the state of men’s mental health in Canada. We’ve also expanded our roster of Champions, welcoming NHL great Kevin Bieksa and radio host Buzz Bishop who are participating in this year’s virtual speaker events.

The Men’s Health Month Nitty Gritty

With all of the lemons delivered during the pandemic and lockdowns, it’s time to add some honey. You can get mental health tips, set an activity goal for motivation, inspire others to move, or donate to show your support. Here’s the run of show for June 2021.

Virtual Speaker Event Series

Not sure how to start a conversation about mental health? Want to learn more about using physical activity to manage stress and anxiety? This four-part series covers these topics and more with the help of panellists such as longtime NHLer and executive Trevor Linden, Olympic gold medallist Simon Whitfield, and two-time Grey Cup winner Shea Emry.

Sort-of-Sweaty Weekend Workouts

From family-friendly challenges to belly-busting moves, Grey Cup champion and fitness coach Tommy Europe will have you working up a (light) sweat in these weekly virtual fitness classes. Follow @DontChangeMuch on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for Tommy’s pre-class warm-up. No running shoes? No problem!

Make Your Move Pledge

Pledging to get a little more active during Canadian Men’s Health Month—say, by walking for 15 minutes daily or taking part in the Sort-of-Sweaty Workouts—will help you stay on track, combat boredom, and give you a sense of accomplishment when you’re done. You can also inspire friends, family, and co-workers to follow your lead. Make Your Move Pledge right now!

Time to Register

Here’s what Move for Your Mental Health registration gets you:

Reminders and access to all speaker series and workout videos on demand
Early bird access to bonus tips from speakers and printable copies of workouts

On your marks, get set, get MOVING for your mental health!

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We are proud to be supported by the following partners in our mission to inspire Canadian men to live healthier.

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Seek the Peak Goal

Why I am participating in the Seek the Peak

My personal journey with anxiety

How therapy has helped me

Men don’t openly talk about their health, and I want to lead by example.

Please consider donating to support men’s mental health

1. Read and Re-read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action

2. Learn About Indigenous History and the Residential School System

Websites & Web Resources:

Books:

Courses:

3. Identify and Acknowledge the Territory Where you Live

4. Listen and Learn

5. Attend a National Truth and Reconciliation Week Virtual Event

6. Explore Indigenous Voices

TV Shows & Movies:

Podcasts:

Novels:

7. Support (and Volunteer with) Indigenous Non-profits

8. Support Indigenous creators and businesses

Seeking help when you need it is a power move

Sleep, appetite, and hygiene changes

You don’t feel like yourself

Intense or persistent negative feelings

Nothing seems interesting anymore

Have a hard time with daily functioning

Thinking problems

Using substances to manage stress

Next steps

MindFit ToolKit

What does the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation do?

How are funds used?

Rising to the Challenge During Covid-19

Why give to CMHF?

Donate to support healthier lives for men and families

Stress during the pandemic

Who should get the COVID-19 vaccine?

Vaccine exceptions

Children and youth

Immunocompromised

Allergies

Be part of the herd—We’re in this together

What can you do after you’ve been vaccinated?

COVID-19 additional support

Men’s Health Month: Move for Your Mental Health

Canadians Care About Men’s Mental Health

Our Impact numbers. Here’s what we achieved:

Men’s Health Champions

Partner Acknowledgments

Men’s Mental Health Videos on Demand

How to Start A Conversation About Mental Health

The Power of Movement

Parenting with Anxiety

How to Be Together While Apart

Four Part Workout Series — led by CFL Champ Tommy Europe

Men’s Health Month Today and Beyond

Healthier Men Mean Stronger Families and Communities

5 Tips for People Who Want to Help

Do you want to know how to talk to men about their mental health and well-being?

Resources:

Q: Why is men’s health important to you?

Q: What can viewers expect from your upcoming “Parenting with Anxiety” event set to premiere on June 16?

Q: You have a Guinness World Record for the Longest Game of Netball. What was it like to win that record, and what did it teach you about getting more active?

Get Active

Q: As a busy husband and dad, what is a struggle you’ve faced in the last year when it comes to taking care of your health? What advice can you share with men who are experiencing the same kind of struggle?

Q: In the nineties, during your years as a young broadcaster, what was the most memorable interview you did, and what was one stand-out moment you remember from it?

Q: Why is men’s health important to you?

Q: What can viewers expect from your upcoming event, “How to Start a Conversation About Mental Health?” set to premiere on June 2, 2021?

Q: The Canucks were a progressive organization when you played for them. Can you tell us a bit about the group dynamics and the importance of positive culture?

Q: Is it true you went skating for the first time on a lake in Ontario when you were only 18 months old? When did you know that hockey was something you were going to pursue as a career?

Q: When it comes to your health, what is a common struggle you face and what are some ways you work through it?

Watch On-Demand: How to Start A Conversation About Mental Health with Kevin Bieksa

Coping. It’s Kind of a Big Deal

The Men’s Health Month Nitty Gritty

Virtual Speaker Event Series

Sort-of-Sweaty Weekend Workouts

Make Your Move Pledge

Time to Register

Register for Men’s Health Month Events

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