Community News
Elimination of Violence Against Women & Children

November 25th is Interntional Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children. DEFINITION:
Interpersonal violence directed against a person because of that person’s gender or violence that affects persons of a particular gender disproportionately. It is the types of abuse that women, girls, Two Spirit, transgender and non-binary people are at highest risk of experiencing. Women and gender diverse people are at high risk of gender based violence due to the additional discrimination and barriers they face. This includes women with disabilities, Indigenous women, racialized women, transgender, non-binary people, women who are homeless, or under-housed. It can happen in romantic relationships, families, at work, and between friends and acquaintances or strangers.

THE IMPACT OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE IN CANADA
It cost lives: In 2022, 184 women and girls were violently killed, primarily by men. One woman or girl is killed every 48 hours in Canada (Canadian Femicide Observatory for Justice and Accountability, 2022).
• The Toll: On those who are harmed is significant. It is a source of vicarious trauma. Children who witness violence in the home have twice the rate of psychiatric disorders as children from on-violent homes. (Eve Bender, Psychiatric News, 2004).
• The Cost: It costs billions of dollars: 7.5 billion to deal with the aftermath of inter-personal violence alone (Department of Justice, 2009).
• Can carry over into the workplace: Threatening a women’s ability to maintain economic independence. More than half (53%) of study respondents who experienced violence said that at least one type of abusive act happened at or near their workplace. Almost 40% of those who had experienced abuse. said it made it difficult for them to get to work, and 8.5% said that they lost their jobs because of it (Jennifer C.D. MacGregor et al., Safety and Health at Work, 2016).
• Become Abusers themselves. Children may be more likely to use substances themselves, engage in abusive behaviour, or fall victim to abusive behaviour in their own personal relationships, when they grow up in these environments.

The Power of Zinc

Zinc plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system, helping the body fight off colds and the flu. It can reduce the duration and severity of symptoms by preventing the virus from multiplying in the nasal passages and throat. Zinc also helps activate T-lymphocytes, which are essential for immune responses. Studies show that taking zinc supplements within 24 hours of the onset of cold symptoms can lead to quicker recovery. It may also reduce the risk of getting sick in the first place by boosting the body’s defense mechanisms and maintaining the integrity of the respiratory system.

Alzheimer’s & Home Safety

If you have a loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease, it’s important to remember that one of the keys to aging at home is doing so safely. Safety at home begins with adapting the environment to support the changing abilities of the person with Alzheimer’s. Tips to help safeguard the home include: Install safety latches/locks on the doors and fenced/gated exteriors; Limit access to knives and harmful chemicals; Install grab bars for safe movement; Keep furniture in the same spot to avoid confusion; Install alarms on the doors, and store car keys in a locked container. It’s a good idea to bring in a homecare professional to ensure proper safety and comfort.

Reconnect with Reiki

In today’s fast-paced world, Reiki serves as a valuable tool for reconnecting with oneself. It offers support in revitalizing energy, alleviating daily stress, navigating life transitions, and fostering a spiritual connection. People come to reiki for all sorts of reasons. Some want to revitalise their energy levels, alleviate the stress of daily life, move through burnout, navigate life transitions with more ease or create momentum when they get stuck. Others are drawn to reiki for a spiritual connection, a desire to experience a greater sense of meaning in life. Beyond stress reduction, Reiki complements traditional pain management by potentially alleviating discomfort.

What is a Sound Bath?

A sound bath is a meditative experience where participants are immersed in soothing sound waves produced using specific instruments like gongs, singing bowls, chimes, and drums. The vibrations from these instruments promote deep relaxation, reduce stress, and help balance energy. Our sound baths take place in a tranquil environment where participants lie down and the healing tones, frequencies and vibrations wash over them allowing the mind and body to physically, mentally & emotionally release tension. People report feeling more centered, calm, and rejuvenated after a session, as the harmonic frequencies promote both mental and physical well-being through deep relaxation.

Find Your Calm

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or like you have too much on your plate? You’re not alone, and help is available. At Safe Harbour Therapy Centre, our skilled talk therapists are here to provide compassionate support tailored to your needs. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, or life transitions, we offer a safe, welcoming environment where you can explore your feelings and develop coping strategies. Don’t let life’s challenges weigh you down—reach out to Safe Harbour today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.

(part 2)

Support Systems: You’re Not Alone
Mothers aren’t meant to go through this journey alone, and a solid support system can be a lifeline. Whether it’s family, friends, or your local community, these people play a massive role in helping to prevent PPD. They’re there to lend a hand with the baby, listen to your concerns, and remind you that what you’re feeling is okay.
Creating Your Own Network:
1. Speak Up About Your Needs: It’s okay to ask for help. Let your loved ones know what you need, whether it’s a shoulder to lean on or an extra pair of hands.
2. Build Your Circle: Surround yourself with a mix of emotional and practical support — from close family to trusted healthcare providers.
3. Lean on Your Community: Make the most of local resources like support groups and parenting classes. These connections can be invaluable.
4. Partner Support: Involving your partner in caregiving duties can lighten your load and make recovery smoother. You’re in this together.
Lifestyle: Simple Changes That Make a Big Impact
Your mental health is closely tied to your physical health. What you eat, how much you move, and how well you sleep can all make a huge difference in preventing PPD.
● Eat Well: A nutritious diet fuels your body and mind, helping you feel more energized and emotionally balanced. Omega-3s, found in foods like fish, are especially helpful for mental health.
● Move Your Body: Gentle exercises like walking or postpartum yoga can lift your mood by releasing feel-good hormones. Always check with your doctor to make sure your body is ready before starting any new activity.
● Rest When You Can: Sleep is critical for both mental and physical health. Try to rest when your baby sleeps, and don’t hesitate to ask for help with nighttime feedings. Prioritizing sleep can make a world of difference.
By embracing early screenings, learning about mental health, building a support system, and making simple lifestyle changes, you can take control of your postpartum experience. But even with the best planning, PPD can still affect so many new parents. In the next and last article in this series, we’ll share real stories from people who’ve walked this path and found their way through. Their experiences remind us that, no matter how tough things may seem, there’s always hope and a way forward.

Denture Fit and Health

Improperly fitting dentures can cause oral tissue damage, including blisters, sores, cuts, and scrapes. These injuries lead to inflammation, bleeding, and increased risk of infection. Ill-fitting dentures may also hinder chewing, resulting in poor nutrition and health problems. Jaw pain caused by poorly fitting dentures can lead to headaches and earaches due to inflammation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). A misaligned bite affects head and neck muscles, leading to TMJ pain and temporomandibular disorder (TMD). TMD limits mouth opening, impacting eating, speaking, and other issue associated with the head and neck. Book your yearly exam to make sure your dentures still fit you perfectly.

Post Partum Depression Prevention

Preventing Postpartum Depression (PPD) isn’t just about treating symptoms when they appear. It’s about building a solid foundation of emotional, social, and medical support uniquely suited to each mother. By surrounding yourself with the right people and resources before, during, and after pregnancy, the chances of PPD can be greatly reduced, giving both mom and baby the best start to this new chapter of life. The Power of Early Screening
One of the best ways to prevent PPD is through early detection, and that’s where regular screenings come in. These screenings during prenatal and postnatal visits give healthcare providers the chance to check in on how you’re really feeling. Spotting early signs of PPD using validated screening tools like the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) or the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) can open the door to much-needed support and help stop it from escalating. It’s all about catching things before they become overwhelming. Preparing for Motherhood: The Role of Education
No one can truly prepare you for motherhood, but perinatal education programs come close. They provide insights into what’s normal during pregnancy and the postpartum period while also teaching you how to recognize signs of PPD. From in-person classes to online resources, these programs meet you where you are and help set you up for success.

Silent Struggle: Hearing Loss Dangers

Recent research has illuminated a concerning connection between hearing loss and an increased risk of falls, particularly among older individuals. Hearing impairment can compromise spatial awareness and balance, making it challenging to detect potential hazards and maintain stability. Social isolation, often a result of hearing loss, exacerbates these risks. Falls can lead to severe consequences, including fractures and head injuries. However, the good news is that addressing hearing loss through regular screenings and assistive technologies can significantly reduce these risks. Promoting awareness, routine check-ups, and a stigma-free approach to hearing aids can empower individuals to proactively manage hearing loss, enhancing both their quality of life and overall safety.

Lightening the Load

Aging happens to everyone – no matter how young at heart. What’s reassuring is that we can take proactive steps to age well, stay active, and live independently for as long as possible. But when should you start thinking about home care? If you’ve noticed signs that a senior needs help at home, it’s likely time to start the conversation. These services are designed not just for medical needs, but also to lighten the workload around the home, ensuring that daily tasks are manageable and stress-free. Early intervention with home care can help maintain a higher quality of life, enabling seniors to continue enjoying the activities they love in the comfort of their own homes.