Hotter days can impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature, which is especially challenging for older adults who adjust poorly to sudden changes and often have chronic conditions or medications that affect temperature control. Heat exhaustion indicates the body can’t stay cool, causing thirst, dizziness, weakness, and nausea, with possible excessive sweating and clammy skin. Resting in a cool place and hydrating can help, but if symptoms persist, seek medical care to prevent heat stroke. Heat stroke, marked by a temperature over 104°F, confusion, dry skin, and a rapid pulse, is a medical emergency requiring immediate cooling and medical attention. Enjoy the summer, but be safe!
Community News
A Fountain for Care
A new campaign to support the Brandon Regional Health Centre’s expansion project is now underway. The BRHC Foundation aims to raise $2 million for the construction and equipment costs of the new Critical Care building. This state-of-the-art facility will provide essential services to our community, improving patient care and outcomes. The campaign will run until the end of 2025, and community support will be greatly appreciated. To contribute to this vital cause or for more information, please contact the Foundation at (204) 578-4227. Your support is crucial in making this project a success.
September is Recovery Month
Since 2012, a network of people in recovery, families, service providers, and entire communities have come together to celebrate RECOVERY.
WHY IS RECOVERY DAY IMPORTANT
Thousands of individuals are affected by substances use disorder and may never receive the support they need, leaving hundreds of Canadians to die each month. While there is no cure for addiction, there is a solution. Together we build awareness, challenge societal Stigma, and above all else show our community that recovery is real, attainable and sustainable.WHAT IS STIGMA
The stigma around substance use is one of the biggest barriers for people seeing and receiving treatment for addiction. Stigma is often displayed in the forms of discriminatory attitudes and beliefs, and behaviours. Stigma is a significant barrier to getting help for those with a substance use disorder, or who have used substances in the past. As a society, the words we use to describe people and their health conditions influence and reflect our attitudes and approaches to helping them. Language evolves and continuously adapts to respond to changes in society’s values and understanding of oppression in our culture.
International studies by the World Health Organization show that people with alcohol and drug use disorders are among some of most stigmatized individuals of all health conditions.
NATIONAL STATISTICS SHOW
3.3 Million people die each year due to the harmful use of Alcohol.
35,000 people die from alcohol and drug use disorders. Only 14% of people who meet the criteria for a drug use disorder receive any treatment for it.
Book Club
Burnout – The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle – By Emily Nagoski PhD and Amelia Nagoski DMA. This ground-breaking book explains why women experience burnout differently than men—and provides a simple, practical plan to help women minimize stress, manage emotions, and live a more joyful life. With the help of eye-opening science, prescriptive advice, and helpful worksheets and exercises, all women will find something transformative in these pages—and will be empowered to create positive change.
Recovery Day at The Forks
Recovery Day is a National Movement committed to mobilizing and organizing Canadians in recovery from addiction and addiction related problems. We envision a world in which recovery from addiction is a common and celebrated reality. We are passionate about sharing the faces, voices and stories of recovery in hopes of inspiring and inviting others to join us on the rewarding yet diverse path to wholeness. The Recovery Day Winnipeg Committee and organizers commit to providing a respective, safe space, to celebrate recovery , through organizing and facilitating, Recovery Day events at the Forks .Increasing awareness, sensitivity and reducing the stigma to individuals and their families affected.
We have a wonderful program line-up, Michael Redhead Champagne as the MC, Charlotte Nolin and Will Gault as our speakers, a children’s and family fun zone, musicians, our resource market, vendors, food trucks etc. etc. CELEBRATE RECOVERY! JOIN US ON RECOVERY DAY IN WINNIPEG
SEPTEMBER 8th, 11:00 – 3:30
Balance Your Hormones Naturally
What does hormonal imbalance look like? Hot flashes, night sweats, bloating, irritability, brain fog, irregular cycle, and fatigue are just some of the symptoms. If you suffer from any of these symptoms and haven’t been able to find relief, why not try balancing your hormones naturally. Biofeedback testing and treatment help to detect imbalances and stimulate hormone-producing organs to balance the body. Another effective option is to get your body tested to see if it is lacking specific hormone-related nutrients. If you are, natural nutritional formulations can be taken to correct the hormonal imbalance and relieve your symptoms.
The Importance of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is crucial for maintaining healthy nerve cells and supporting the production of DNA and red blood cells. It plays a significant role in brain function and development. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to serious health issues such as anemia, neurological disorders, and cognitive impairments. It is essential for energy production and helps reduce the risk of heart disease by regulating homocysteine levels in the blood. Ensuring an adequate intake of vitamin B12 through diet or supplements is vital, especially for vegetarians, vegans, and older adults, who are at higher risk of deficiency.
Transform Your Fitness Journey
Check out Flex Fitness and start your fitness journey today with a free one-on-one consultation and 1-hour elite personal training sessions customized to your needs. Whether you want to look good, feel good, or age well, we can help you achieve your fitness goals. A personal trainer at Flex Fitness will boost your energy, stamina, focus, confidence, and flexibility with a program designed specifically for you. Our trainers work with all levels, from athletes to beginners, injury rehabilitation clients, new moms, youths, seniors, and those with cognitive disabilities. Enjoy our welcoming environment and amenities like a saltwater pool, hot tub, private showers, and change rooms.
(part 2)
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Recognizing the Red Flags: Common Symptoms of PPD
Understanding the signs of PPD is a crucial step toward getting the support you need. PPD can show up in many ways, affecting your emotions, body, thoughts, and behaviours. Knowing what to look for can help you seek help sooner and get ahead on your recovery.
Emotional Symptoms
● Feeling persistently sad or down
● Experiencing severe mood swings
● Crying more than usual
● Feeling intensely irritable
● Struggling with feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt
Physical Symptoms
● Changes in appetite, either eating too much or too little
● Having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
● Feeling unexplained aches and pains
● Constantly feeling tired and drained of energy
Cognitive Symptoms
● Finding it hard to concentrate or make decisions
● Having memory problems
● Experiencing intrusive thoughts, especially about your baby’s safety
Behavioural Symptoms
● Withdrawing from family and friends
● Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
● Struggling to take care of yourself or your baby
● Having thoughts of self-harm or harming your baby
Everyone’s experience with PPD is different. Some moms may feel primarily emotional symptoms, while others might have more physical or cognitive challenges. This is why getting a personalized assessment from a healthcare provider who can understand your unique situation and provide the proper treatment for you is so important.
Yellow Blooms Boost Mood
Yellow flowers have a remarkable impact on mental health, offering both visual and psychological benefits. Their bright, sunny hue is known to evoke feelings of happiness and positivity, counteracting stress and anxiety. Yellow symbolizes hope and optimism, often uplifting the spirit and enhancing mood. Studies suggest that exposure to vibrant colors, especially yellow, can stimulate mental activity and boost energy levels. Flowers like sunflowers, daisies, and marigolds not only beautify spaces but also create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Incorporating yellow flowers into daily life, whether at home or work, can be a simple yet effective way to promote emotional well-being.
Understanding Postpartum Depression (PPD)
Welcoming a new baby is a beautiful and joyous time, but it can also bring unexpected challenges for some new mothers. PPD is a severe form of depression that some mothers experience after childbirth. It’s different from the short-lived “baby blues” that many moms go through; PPD lasts longer and can profoundly affect a mother’s ability to care for her little one and manage daily life.
“Depression is the leading complication of childbirth. Left untreated, it can lead to severe consequences for both mother and child, including suicide and developmental problems for children.” — Dr. Lauren Osborne, Director of the Johns Hopkins Center for Women’s Reproductive Mental Health.
Understanding Other Perinatal Mental Health Conditions
During pregnancy and the first year after giving birth, many new mothers can face various mental health challenges. Among these, PPD is just one, and knowing the differences between these conditions is critical to getting the right help.
● Postpartum Blues: Affects up to 80% of new mothers and usually resolves within two weeks. However, if your symptoms are more severe and last longer, you might be dealing with PPD, which needs more attention and care.
● Postpartum Anxiety: This involves excessive worry, restlessness, and physical symptoms like heart palpitations and dizziness.
● Postpartum OCD: Intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours focused on your baby’s safety are signs to watch out for.
● Postpartum PTSD: If your childbirth experience was traumatic, you might experience flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, making it hard to cope with postpartum life.
● Postpartum Psychosis: This is a rare but severe condition involving delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking that require immediate attention.
