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As we continue with Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode of Healthy Boundaries, Healthy Minds: Teen consent and mental health, Sex Educator Sandra Allen joins host Christina Droumtsekas to dive into what consent looks like, and mental health. We will unpack what it means to support teens through one of their most formative – and often confusing times. Together, we explore how to talk about consent in language that resonates with teens,
navigate the complexities of identity and shame, and understand the impact of digital culture on sexuality.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link:link:https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8
Resources:
For teens:
• SexandU.ca – A Canadian resource created by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada. It’s medically accurate, teen-friendly, and covers everything from relationships to identities to contraception.
• Amaze.org – Offers short, animated videos on a huge range of topics. The content is inclusive, affirming, and developmentally appropriate for varying ages ranging from young kids to middle and high school-age teens.
• Scarleteen.com – A well-established, inclusive resource for older teens and young adults. It covers not just sex-ed, but also identity, relationships, boundaries, and navigating consent.
• You Know, Sex by Cory Silverberg – An inclusive, illustrated book for tweens and early teens that covers puberty, identity, and consent in a smart, affirming way.
For parents and caregivers:
• SexPositiveFamilies.com – Provides excellent guidance on how to talk to kids and teens about bodies, consent, and relationships in age-appropriate, non-shaming ways.
• TeachingSexualHealth.ca - Developed in Alberta, this site includes age-specific resources for parents, FAQs, and video modules to help support conversations at home.
• Action Canada for Sexual Health & Rights – Planned Parenthood of Canada, complete with quality education materials for parents and teachers, including tips for supporting teens in making informed, autonomous choices.
• Sex, Teens & Everything in Between by Shafia Zaloom – A great resource for parents and educators navigating consent and healthy decision-making with teens. -
In this solo episode, Christina Droumtsekas reflects on how digital culture—and the constant stream of filtered images—shapes our self-esteem. Drawing from her personal experiences and art therapy research, she explores how selfies and self-portraiture can serve as tools for reflection, healing, and reclaiming one’s identity.
Whether you’re navigating a life transition or simply feeling the weight of comparison, this episode offers gentle prompts and grounding practices to reconnect with your authentic self.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8
Resources Mentioned:
• Selfies, Social Media, and the Quantified Self by Katrin Tiidenberg
• The Self-Portrait Experience by Christina Nuñez
• Art Therapy and Self-Esteem by Ellen G. Horovitz
• Self-Compassion by Kristin Neff
• Body Image, Self-Esteem, and the Influence of Digital Media (research articles)
• Midlife Transformation by Ralph Metzner
• https://thriveworks.com/help-with/self-improvement/self-worth-vs-self-esteem/#:~:text=But%20two%20appear%20to%20mean,in%20your%20worth%20and%20abilities. -
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In this solo episode, podcast host Christina Droumtsekas reflects on the kind of grief that lingers—the kind that reshapes who we are and how we move through the world. She opens up about the recent passing of her grandmother and the end of her marriage, sharing honest stories about how loss can show up in unexpected ways. Christina explores how grief isn’t limited to death—it can also come from losing a friendship, a dream, a role, or a version of ourselves we once held onto. These kinds of losses are often minimized or overlooked, but they can be heavy. Through her reflections, Christina creates space for listeners to refect with their own experiences of grief, giving permission to feel what they need to feel, and to see grief not as a weakness, but as part of being human. Whether you're grieving someone, something, or a path not taken, this episode is a reminder that you're not alone.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8 -
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and in this episode of Stressed Out: How to Cope Before You Burn Out, host Christina Droumtsekas is joined by Registered Psychotherapist Tracey Sebastian for an honest conversation about one of the most common mental health struggles we all face—stress. Together, they explore how stress shows up in our bodies and minds, the connection between chronic stress and mental well-being, and practical strategies for managing it before it leads to burnout. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or need a mental health check-in, this episode offers insight and everyday tools to help you care for yourself more intentionally.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8." -
In this episode, Christina Droumtsekas is joined by Val Brosseau, and together they explore the difference between being in distress or in crisis, and knowing when to reach out for help. They will also discuss the role of a crisis responder and what you can expect when you call a support line.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8." -
In the final episode of this series, Vijay, a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, continues to share their experiences as a trans non-binary individual of color, as well as sharing the experiences of others in the queer community. The discussion between Vijay and Caitlin focuses on the importance of timely and appropriate interventions for queer individuals, the need for better understanding and training in queer issues among healthcare providers, and the importance of advocating for change in mental health systems.
As discussed in the episode, the following are some resources that we felt were important to share.
Rainbow Health Ontario: www.RainbowHealthOntario.ca/ - Rainbow Health Ontario creates opportunities for the healthcare system to better serve LGBT2SQ communities.
Egale’s Queering Mental Health: eModules for Mental Health Service Providers: https://egale.ca/awareness/qmh-emodules/ - Egale Canada’s Queering Mental Health eModules were developed based on research and feedback from 2SLGBTQI service providers and service seekers to better equip service providers with more in-depth and expansive knowledge on how to provide more holistic and attuned care to 2SLGBTQI people.
Langs Community Health Centre: https://www.langs.org/programs-services/health/community-health-centre - Langs offers a Community Health Centre (CHC) at their main site on Concession Rd in Cambridge, as well as at their North Dumfries Satellite Site in Ayr. Primary Health Care at Langs and North Dumfries focuses on meeting a person's physical, mental and social needs throughout their entire lifespan. This may include support for the prevention of illness, treatments and promoting good health practices. It also takes into consideration contributing factors and barriers that may impact a person’s health and well-being.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
In this episode as the new host, Christina Droumtsekas is joined by Caitlin Plant, Program Manager at Distress and Crisis Ontario, to explore the organization at the core of this podcast. Together, we dive into DCO’s mission, its evolution, and the powerful ways it supports individuals and communities across the province.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
In today’s episode Caitlin Plant, Program Manager at Distress and Crisis Ontario, is joined by Ryan to discuss mental health in the workplace. Specifically, Ryan share’s his experience of seeing how mental health is approached in the food service and construction industries. This episode does contain some rather heavy discussion of mental health, substance use, and suicidality.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
In this episode, Caitlin continues her conversation with Vijay, a Psychology & Neuroscience student and mental health professional, sharing their journey of self-discovery as a trans, nonbinary person of color. In part three Caitlin and Vijay delve a little deeper into some of the tougher questions surrounding identity, coming out, the suicide crisis in the trans community, and more.
As discussed in the episode, the following are some resources that we felt were important to share.
Trans Lifeline: https://www.translifeline.org - Trans Lifeline provides trans peer support for our community that’s been divested from police since day one. We’re run by and for trans people.
Rainbow Health Ontario: www.RainbowHealthOntario.ca - Rainbow Health Ontario creates opportunities for the healthcare system to better serve LGBT2SQ communities.
Egale Canada: https://egale.ca/ - Egale is Canada’s leading organization for 2SLGBTQI people and issues. We improve and save lives through research, education, awareness, and by advocating for human rights and equality in Canada and around the world. Our work helps create societies and systems that reflect the universal truth that all persons are equal and none is other.
Pflag Canada: www.PflagCanada.ca - Pflag Canada is proud to be Canada’s only national organization that offers peer-to-peer support striving to help all Canadians with issues of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression. We support, educate and provide resources to anyone with questions or concerns. We promise to offer local, practical, and emotional peer-to-peer family support for individuals and their loved ones challenged by gender/sexual identity.
“Where We Are on TV 2023-2024” - Representation of Transgender Characters: https://glaad.org/whereweareontv23/representation-of-transgender-characters/ - This report provides an in depth breakdown of representation across largely American media sources.
Unfortunately, we were unable to find many other reputable sources of trans representation in the media, but webpages like Reddit and Wikipedia do contain further peer-compiled lists.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
In this episode, Marissa Rasmussen speaks with Kyla Salliss, a professional makeup artist and young entrepreneur, about navigating the challenges of pursuing a non-conventional career in the arts while maintaining mental well-being. Kyla shares her journey from starting out in the creative industry to building her own business, offering valuable advice on managing the pressures of entrepreneurship and staying true to her passion. Together, they discuss the importance of self-care, the mental health challenges faced by those in creative fields, and how Kyla maintains balance in her life while pursuing a career outside the traditional 9-to-5. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on following your creative dreams and protecting your mental health along the way.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
In this episode, Navigating Political Stress: Strategies for Mental Well-Being, Marissa Rasmussen, Communications and Marketing Manager, is joined by Amanda Giorgini, a thanatology graduate from King’s University, to discuss how to manage stress in today’s political climate. We explore how to recognize when political events are impacting mental health, ways to stay informed without feeling overwhelmed, and how to engage in political conversations while maintaining well-being. Amanda shares insights on setting boundaries, coping with uncertainty, and practicing self-care during turbulent times. We also discuss how to turn stress into action in a way that feels empowering rather than exhausting. Tune in for practical strategies to help you navigate the emotional toll of today’s political landscape.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
In this episode, we continue our conversation with Vijay, a Psychology & Neuroscience student and mental health professional. Vijay shares their journey of self-discovery as a trans, nonbinary person of color, offering insight into the differences between trans and cis experiences, common misconceptions about the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and the importance of allyship. We discuss how small acts of support can make a big impact, key terms allies should know, and where individuals can find community and resources. Tune in for an open and thoughtful discussion on identity, inclusion, and support.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
In this episode, Prabhvir Gill, a student placement at Distress and Crisis Ontario, speaks with Neta Gear, Executive Director of the Delton Glebe Counselling Centre and Distress and Crisis Ontario. As a registered social worker with extensive experience in crisis services, brain injury support, and community care, Neta brings valuable insight into the mental health challenges faced by immigrants.
Together, they discuss how the stress of migration impacts mental well-being, the emotional toll of leaving one’s home country, and the effects of family separation—particularly on children. Neta sheds light on the barriers immigrants face when accessing mental health services and the role of fear, stigma, and legal status in shaping their experiences. She also explores common coping strategies and how communities can work to raise awareness and improve support systems.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
In this episode, Marissa Rasmussen, Communications and Marketing Manager at Distress and Crisis Ontario, speaks with Christina Droumtsekas, a therapist with a background in both therapy and the arts, about building healthy and fulfilling romantic relationships. Christina shares insights on key relationship dynamics including communication, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution. She explores how attachment styles shape the way people connect, how past trauma can impact relationships, and ways couples can foster intimacy and appreciation in everyday life. They also discuss external pressures such as family expectations, career stress, and social media and how they influence modern relationships.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
In this episode, Marissa Rasmussen, Communications and Marketing Manager at Distress and Crisis Ontario, is joined by Program Manager Caitlin Plant to explore the importance of fostering positive workplace relationships. Using insights from Psychology Today, they discuss key elements like trust, communication, setting boundaries, and managing conflicts professionally. They also touch on the role of emotional intelligence, the impact of remote work on team dynamics, and how a supportive work environment benefits mental health and productivity. Tune in for practical tips on building stronger, healthier workplace relationships!
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
In this episode, Caitlin Plant, Program Manager at Distress and Crisis Ontario, speaks with Vijay, a Psychology & Neuroscience student and mental health professional, about their journey as a trans, nonbinary individual of color. Vijay shares their personal experiences navigating identity, mental health, and some of the challenges of being part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. They discuss the impact of current social and political climates, the importance of allyship, and how small actions—like understanding pronouns—can make a difference. This is part one of an ongoing conversation exploring identity, resilience, and support within the community.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
Editors note: sorry for the delay in the podcast upload I (Damien) was busy having a baby over the weekend and i'm just getting back up to speed now.
In this episode, Marissa Rasmussen speaks with Samantha Cranston, a Bachelor of Fine Arts graduate, about the emotional and psychological impact of divorce on children and young adults. Samantha shares insights on navigating major life changes, setting boundaries in family relationships, and coping with feelings of guilt and self-blame. They discuss common challenges, including communication struggles, loyalty conflicts, and the long-term effects of divorce on trust and relationships. Marissa and Samantha also reflect on their personal experiences, highlighting ways to foster resilience and emotional growth.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
This week on the podcast, Prabhvir Gill, a Humber College student completing his placement with DCO, sits down with Zeryab Ayub, who is pursuing a bachelor's degree in environmental studies at York University. Together, they explore the crucial topic of children’s mental health.
From recognizing early warning signs to understanding the long-term effects of trauma, Prabhvir and Zeryab discuss practical ways parents, caregivers, and schools can foster emotional well-being. They also tackle complex issues like the impact of social media, the importance of open communication within families, and actionable steps to support mental wellness in the community.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or advocate, this episode offers invaluable insights and inspiration for creating a healthier future for our kids.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
Continuing last week’s conversation on masculinity, Marissa Rasmussen is joined by therapist Chad MackIntosh from The Delton Glebe Counselling Centre. Together, they delve deeper into the impact of toxic masculinity, discussing societal pressures, media influences, and practical ways to foster healthier perspectives on masculinity and emotional well-being.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. -
In this episode, Marissa Rasmussen has a thoughtful conversation with Caleb Pauze about toxic masculinity and its impact on individuals, relationships, and society as a whole. They discuss how societal expectations and media influence shape ideas of masculinity and explore the challenges men face in expressing emotions and breaking free from harmful stereotypes. Caleb also shares insights on fostering healthier, more inclusive approaches to masculinity and strategies for addressing toxic behaviors in everyday life. Please note that this is a casual conversation based on Caleb's lived experiences, and we are continuously learning and growing in our understanding of this topic. It is not intended to be a professional or expert discussion.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8. - Näytä enemmän
