NAAW is an annual campaign led by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA). This week is dedicated to raising awareness about the harms associated with alcohol and other substances.

This year’s theme will focus on “Forging Connections”, encouraging communities, partners, and individuals to develop connections, identify a common ground, and work together to help address the challenges of substance use health.  By doing so, everyone can work together more efficiently to find effective solutions and actions they can all support! 

Addiction, also known as Substance Use Disorders, can arise from a variety of complex and interrelated factors.

• Stress and Coping Mechanisms: Many people turn to substances as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or trauma that may stem from work, relationships, or life changes. Substances can be used as a temporary escape or relief. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), stress is a significant contributor to the onset of Substance Use Disorders.
• Mental Health Disorders: Mental health conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, Depression, and other mood disorders are strongly associated with Substance Use Disorders. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) notes that many individuals with mental health disorders may start using substances in an attempt to manage their symptoms, which can lead to addiction.  
• Peer Pressure and Social Influence: Young people, in particular, are vulnerable to peer pressure. If they are in social circles where drug or alcohol use is prevalent, they may feel compelled to participate to fit in.
• Genetics and Family History: Genetic predisposition can also be a risk factor for Substance Use Disorders. Individuals with a family history of addictions are more likely to develop one themselves due to inherited traits. This is supported by the Public Health Agency of Canada.
• Intergenerational Trauma: Individuals’ upbringing can be affected by the trauma their ancestors endured. This can lead to a range of mental health issues, which may cause individuals to turn to substances as a form of self-medication. CAMH and CCSA indicate that the psychological and emotional scars of trauma can create a cycle where substance use becomes a way to numb the pain or disconnect from distressing memories, perpetuating a cycle of addiction.  
• Trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Experiences of trauma, especially during childhood, can significantly increase the risk of substance use in later life. ACEs such as abuse, neglect, or witnessing violence are strongly correlated with the development of addiction. CCSA reports that individuals with a history of trauma are at a higher risk of Substance Use Disorders as they may use substances to cope with the emotional pain associated with their experiences.  
• Availability and Accessibility: Easy to access substances, whether it’s through legal means (such as alcohol and prescription drugs) or illegal means, can increase the likelihood of substance use. Availability in someone’s community or social group can lower the barriers to experimenting with or regularly using substances.  

Negative stereotypes and misconceptions about people who use substances can prevent them from accessing the care they need. For instance, only a small percentage of primary care physicians in Ontario are willing to take on new patients with opioid use disorder, which can lead to tragic outcomes like overdose.  

As RRC Polytech community members, we can each play a crucial role in combating stigma by using person-first language. For example, instead of labelling someone as an “addict” or “druggie”, refer to them as a “person with addiction” or “person who uses drugs”. This simple change in language can make a significant difference in how individuals perceive themselves and how they are treated by others.  

In 2023 alone, there were 8,904 opioid-related deaths, which means an average of 22 people died each day due to opioid-related causes. This represents a continuation of a troubling trend that began in 2016, with the country having experienced over 44,000 opioid related deaths since then. 

If you are interested in getting involved, here are a few ways you can make a difference:  

• Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the signs of addiction, the risks associated with substance use, and the resources available for support. Share this information with your family and peers to foster a more informed and compassionate community.  

• Promote Healthy Behaviors: Engage in and encourage activities that support mental health and well-being, such as mindfulness, exercise, and social connections that do not revolve around substance use.  

• Support Your Peers: If you know someone who is struggling with addictions, offer your support without judgement. Encourage them to seek help and remind them that they are not alone.  

• Advocate for Resources: Advocate for increased access to mental health and addiction support services in your community.  

Seasonal Affective Disorder is more than just “the winter blues”. It’s a type of Depression that follows a seasonal pattern and primarily affects individuals during the shorter, darker days of the fall and winter. The exact cause of SAD isn’t fully understood, but several factors contribute to an onset, including:  

• Disruptions in your biological clock (circadian rhythm) due to decrease in sunlight. 
• Drops in serotonin levels (a brain chemical) that affects mood, caused by reduced sunlight.
• Seasonal changes in melatonin production, which plays a role in sleep patterns and mood.

In addition to medical treatments, there are several other things that individuals can do to cope with SAD, including some lifestyle habits and self-management strategies.

• Light Therapy: One of the most effective treatments for SAD is light therapy, which involves sitting near a light box that mimics natural sunlight. Light therapy can help reset your biological clock and boost serotonin levels. You can borrow one for free at RRC Polytechnic here. Permanent light therapy stations are also available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Exchange District and Notre Dame Campus Libraries.
• Maintain a Routine: Establishing a regular routine can help manage symptoms of SAD. Fortunately, having a class schedule can help build that routine. It’s also important to try and wake up and go to bed at the same time every day – yes on the weekends too, if you can. Consistency can help regulate your biological clock.  
• Stay Active: Regular physical activity can improve mood and energy levels. Remember that Campus Well-Being has a lot of free programs to offer to RRC Polytech students and employees. From fitness classes and intramural sports to yoga and dance classes. Although it may feel challenging to get started, making a schedule can help maintain a commitment.
• Get Outside: Spending time outdoors, even on a cloudy day, can help increase exposure to natural light. Aim for at least 30 minutes of time outdoors. You can go on a walk or simply sit and read a book outside! 
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Nutrition plays a key role in our mental health, especially when we are craving carbohydrates during the fall and winter. Focus on fiber rich and nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, but don’t deprive yourself of a treat every once in a while.  
• Connect with Others: Social support can be crucial if you experience SAD. There are so many opportunities on campus to connect with others and Campus Well-Being in particular hosts many different events that can encourage you to get out there and socialize. Subscribe to the blog or follow us on Instagram to stay up to date.  
• Manage Stress: Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation can be helpful. You can find guidance on Mindwell if you sign up for free! These practices can help manage the stress that can otherwise worsen SAD symptoms.  
• Seek Professional Help: If your symptoms are severe of you are finding it difficult to cope, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional. You can reach out to RRC Polytech Counselling Services or to your Campus Mental Health Specialist, Fizza, to learn about other resources that can help you.  

Celebrate World Kindness Day on November 13, 2024 with Campus Well-Being and the Students’ Association.

Pop by the EDC Atrium or NDC Library Hallway to pick an inspirational card to give to a friend, peer, colleague or someone new. Or write a motivational message to someone you know on some special notes. Keep spreading kindness!

Drop-by: Wednesday, November 13, 2024 from 11:30am to 1:pm

• Library Hallway, Notre Dame Campus
• Atrium Hallway, Exchange District Campus

Join small scale mushroom cultivation expert Tom Nagy of River City Mushrooms as he introduces you to the world of homegrown gourmet and medicinal mushrooms using pre-inoculated mushroom grow blocks.

During this program, you will acquire a basic understanding of what mushrooms and fungi are, what species and varieties can be easily grown both indoors and outdoors as well as how to best care for them to ensure consistent and bountiful crops of beautiful mushrooms.

REGISTER – In-Person or Virtual – Wednesday, November 13, 2024 from 12pm to 1pm in the Connected Classroom, G139 at Notre Dame Campus.

Unable to attend? Register for the virtual option to receive the recording.

The first 20 students to attend in-person at NDC will receive a free mushroom at-home growing kit after the presentation.

Mushroom grow blocks are an accessible, hassle-free way for beginners to experience mushroom cultivation without having to invest in any equipment or learn advanced techniques.

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Tom Nagy is a restoration ecologist with a passion for botany, sustainable agriculture, and mycology. Tom has experience working as a field botanist, environmental consultant and as a field and operations manager for a certified organic farm. In 2018 Tom began River City Mushrooms; a small-scale mycological interest project based in Winnipeg that focuses on cultivating an appreciation for edible and medicinal fungi as well as supplying the knowledge and tools necessary for a new generation of mushroom growing enthusiasts to flourish. Tom continues to advocate for a greater understanding of how we perceive, understand and develop relationships with the natural world by writing informative articles and conducting engaging public programs discussing native plant communities, organic agriculture, mushroom cultivation and wild foraging.

The Winnipeg Humane Society visits the College to offer participants a fresh perspective on maintaining mental, emotional, and physical well-being. By drawing comparisons between the proper care of pets, farm animals, and ourselves, it highlights the often-overlooked parallels between human and animal needs. Just as animals require attention, nourishment, and rest to thrive, so do we.

REGISTER – In-Person or Virtual – Tuesday, November 19, 2024 from 12pm to 1pm in the Connected Classroom, G139 at Notre Dame Campus.

Unable to attend? Register for the virtual option to receive the recording.

Interested in viewing last year’s kindness topics? Check out the video links on 2023’s blog post.

• Mental Health and Food
• Giizis, The Sun
• Pollinators
• Be Kind, Rewind

Mondays 4:00-5:30pm (North Gym)

Fridays 4:00-5:30 (North Gym)

Tuesdays 4:00-5:30pm (North Gym)

Thursdays 4:00-5:30pm (North Gym)

Wednesdays 4:00-5:30pm (North Gym) – Starting November 6

Fridays 4:00-5:30pm (North Gym) – Starting November 8

Tuesdays 4:00-5:30pm (South Gym)

Thursdays 4:00-5:30pm (South Gym)

Join Coach Brinold to build strength, flexibility, and training knowledge in this self-paced class that focuses on movement quality over quantity. All fitness levels are welcome & exercise progressions and modifications will be provided throughout each workout to accommodate everyone.

REGISTER – Notre Dame Campus, North Gym: Mondays and Wednesdays 12:10 – 12:50pm

There will be no class on Monday, November 11

These fun and high energy sessions utilize bodyweight exercises, kettlebells, dumbbells, medicine balls, bands and more for a compete total-body workout. Coach MG welcomes all fitness levels, providing exercise progressions and modifications to accommodate everyone.

REGISTER – Notre Dame Campus, North Gym: Tuesdays and Thursdays 12:10 – 12:50pm

Take some time to unwind and reconnect with your body with yoga instructor Jaimie Bristow. A class for all levels focusing on slow rhythmic movements and long gentle stretching to explore opening all areas of the body. Class begins and ends with varying forms of pranayama (breathwork), and/or mindfulness based stress reduction techniques.

Suitable for all levels, mats are provided for in-person sessions.

• Wednesdays In-Person – REGISTER – 12:10 to 12:50pm, Notre Dame Campus, Immersion Room (GM33), near North Gym. (NOTE: No In-person class Nov 6, register for virtual session only instead.)

• Wednesdays Virtual and Recording Access – REGISTER – 12:10 to 12:50pm *Access to recording for one week post-class.

Join Chaley Martens after school or work for a 45-minute hatha yoga class to unwind from your day. This class will build on mindful movement and breathing to gently challenge the mind and body, but leave you feeling relaxed. No experience is necessary. Suitable for all levels and mats are provided. Registration required.

REGISTER – Exchange District Campus, P107: Thursdays 4:15pm to 5pm

A dynamic class adapted for all levels that builds heat moving through postures with more continuous movement. Poses are linked together with the breath in a flowing sequence. Various ideas and themes are explored with instructor Jaimie Bristow.

REGISTER – Virtual: Fridays 12:15 to 12:45pm

Note: Links for virtual sessions will be emailed to registrants separately. Friday classes are not recorded.

Borrow a bike to go for lunch, run an errand or cruise around the area. Our four bikes include Moose and Bear (large), Eagle (medium) and Goose (small).  Come to the NDC North Gym customer service desk during regular gym hours, fill out a waiver and pick your bike – daytime borrowing only by students and staff.

Wearing a helmet is mandatory. Bring your own or borrow one from us; bike locks are available too. Each user receiving a bike will be responsible for:

• Keeping it secure
• Riding safely and lawfully
• Returning it in a timely manner

Take a break to create! Activities and supplies provided include – bookmark, bracelet and button making, rock painting, colouring and drawing, knitting and crocheting. We’ll also have some board games available.

Or bring your own project to work on while connecting and socializing with others.

Open from 12:00pm to 1:00pm. You can register for a calendar reminder or just drop in.

• Exchange District Campus: Nov 14, 2024 in P107 – REGISTER
• Notre Dame Campus: Dec 10, 2024 in Prairie Lights – REGISTER

Is the drip, drip, drip of a leaky faucet keeping you awake at night? Is your toilet past its prime and starting to leak or run for no reason?

If so, this next installment of the Renters and Homeowners Maintenance Series on Beginner Plumbing may be just what you need to get a good night’s sleep and save money on your water bill!

Water is our most precious resource and a leaky tap or toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water in a short period of time. In this “taps and toilets basics” class, participants will learn the basic parts of both faucets and toilets and troubleshoot and repair common issues with both of these.

REGISTER – Notre Dame Campus: Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 4:30pm to 6:30pm, in room J2-05, watch for some signs to help find the room.

From the comfort of your own kitchen, Abby Legaspi leads at-home chefs through a step-by-step process to make lasagna roll-ups. Cozy up with good food and lots of fun!

REGISTER – Thursday, November 28, 2024: 6 to 8pm. Link will be emailed separately closer to event.

NOTE: The first 20 RRC Polytech students may request an ingredient kit to pick up from NDC or EDC. You will receive email confirmation. Student supply kits are limited, so register early.

Contact Kristi for more information: kdorian@rrc.ca

“Art is a powerful form of medicine – with the power to heal, to find insight, stillness and growth, to de-stress and feel in balance. Making art is a safe space to be wild and free.” Kisa MacIsaac 

Join Campus Well-Being, the Students’ Association and instructor Kisa MacIsaac, for a virtual evening of painting and creative discovery. Participants follow a step-by-step process to create a unique painted canvas. All students and staff are welcome to register. 

REGISTER – Virtual: Wednesday, Dec 4, 2024, 6pm to 8pm.

NOTE: The first 20 RRC Polytech students may request a paint kit to pick up from NDC or EDC. You will receive email confirmation. Student kits are limited, so register early.

Thrive Week is a time to focus on the importance of balance and self-care in developing positive mental health that supports success in learning and working.

Check out all our wellness events – Alumnus Maria Jose Eguigure Torres Keynote “Building Resilience to Overcome Challenges, Amazing Race themed evening, mini golf, free popcorn and games lunch hours, wood-working, open mic night, massages and more.

Join us during Thrive Week to spend time with some adorable cats! Sign up now as spots fill up fast! If you would like, you are welcome to bring cat food donations. 

Date: November 4, 2024
Time: 11:30am to 1:30pm (sign up here for a 30-minute slot) 
Location: NDC – The Cave

Date: November 5, 2024
Time: 11:30am to 1:30pm (sign up here for a 30-minute slot) 
Location: EDC – P107

No walk-in availability.

Come and spend time with our furry friends from St. John Ambulance! Take some time during the lunch hour to relax and de-stress and spend time with some therapy dogs.

NDC – November 19, 2024
Location & Time: Campus Store Hallway – 11:30am to 1:00pm

EDC – November 20, 2024
Location & Time: Atrium (Roblin Centre) – 11:30am to 1:00pm

Are you looking for an opportunity to be trained to administer Naloxone? Naloxone can be used to save a life in the case of an opioid overdose. Join St. John’s Ambulance for a free training as part of National Addictions Awareness Week. Register here!

Date: November 25, 2024

Time: 4:30 to 6:30pm

Location: EDC – Room P107

Bring yourself, your friends or family for an “all welcome” board game night.

Contact Kristi if you’d like to reserve a specific game for your group of friends, classmates or staff team.

DROP-IN – Exchange District Campus: Tuesday, Nov 19, 2024, 4 to 7pm, in the Dining Hall in The Roblin Centre near Tim Hortons.

DROP-IN – Notre Dame Campus: Thursday, Nov 21, 2024, 4 to 7pm, in The Cave, DM30.

Play board games and giant games like Jenga, Chess or Connect 4, join some peers in a friendly cornhole or card game, take some time to socialize while working on a puzzle or colouring.

DROP-IN – Notre Dame Campus: Tuesday, December 3, 2024 – 10am to 2pm. In the Library Hallway.

Learn how to shift from doubt and anxiety to confidence and prosperity. This is an opportunity to transform your financial life – regardless of how much money you have right now.

• Decrease the negative impact of your comparing mind
• Uncover the “money story” that is impacting your work/school & home life
• Build positive expectations with peers at school or colleagues at work
• Discover the math and mindset of Enough
• Increase your confidence and success at work and school

Join Spencer Sherman on Thursdays at 12:00pm CST. Register here!

Learn and implement mindfulness techniques designed to foster inner contentment, reducing reliance on external sources for happiness – all at NO cost.

• Distinguish between internal happiness vs. dependance on external things to bring us joy
• Learn to be more mindful when it comes to our spending habits
• Heighten awareness of our attachments to our financial status 
• Clarify financial goals and practice gratitude for what we presently have

Join Ross Robinson on Fridays at 11:00am CST. Register here!

Explore the concept of contingent self-esteem and how basing our self-worth on external factors, like how much money we have, can undermine our well-being.

Join Dr. Ellen Choi on Wednesdays at 11:00am CST. Register here!

Practice Tai Chi to see positive results in your health, keep yourself occupied and engaged, and avoid needless spending. Join Peter Hodes Tuesdays at 4:30pm CST. Register here!

Explore practices to make mindful financial choices that are aligned with your values – and experience financial freedom!

Join Jackie Roberge on Mondays at 12:00pm CST.

French: Register here!

English: Register here!

Join us in welcoming Red River College Polytech alumni, Maria Jose Eguigure Torres for Thrive Week’s inspirational keynote presentation in-person and live-streamed. Light refreshments provided and enter to win a door prize.

REGISTER –

Notre Dame Campus: In-Person or Virtual – Thursday, November 7, 2024, 12:15pm to 1pm, in the Emerging Media Production Connected Classroom (G139).

OR

Exchange District Campus: In-Person to watch the live-stream together – Thursday, November 7, 2024, 12:15pm to 1pm in (P107).

Unable to attend? Register for the Virtual option to receive the recording.

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Students and employees are invited to join Thrive Week keynote speaker and RRC Polytech grad Maria Jose Eguigure Torres as she shares her five step process to build resilience and overcome challenges. After competing at the national level in basketball and flag football and creating her own event planning business, Maria Jose moved to Canada to pursue her dreams.  Continuously learning and applying grit and grind in everything she does, Maria Jose believes that a correct mindset is a powerful tool to remain focused on goals, leading to amazing results. Listen as she shares her journey and the five steps that have helped her thrive in these different aspects of life.

Maria Jose Eguigure Torres – Maria Jose studied Industrial Business and Project Management in Honduras before coming to Winnipeg in 2022 to study Hospitality and Tourism Management at RRC Polytech. Back home in Honduras, after a national level sport career she found her passion was creating memorable experiences through event management.

When she moved to Canada, Maria Jose reaffirmed her commitment to impact and inspire others, volunteering with different events and clubs and starting the Honduran Community in Winnipeg.

After graduating from RRC Polytech she now works as an Event Coordinator with Assiniboine Park Conservancy and is the president of the Honduran Community in Winnipeg. Maria Jose continues playing basketball with a local league and has started a women’s flag football team where she creates a safe place for women to learn, connect and stay active.

Maria Jose also loves dancing and was part of the first Latin American Folklorama Pavilion, were she had the opportunity to dance different rhythms and support Punta choreography, a Honduran dance that was showcased for the first time ever in Folklorama thanks to Latin Roots Company.

Maria Jose believes that everything happens for a reason and no matter how many times we receive a ‘no’ or make mistakes, the most important thing is to continue getting better each day and staying true to oneself, learning from each experience.

Take a break from reading, PowerPoints, and hybrid classes with puzzles and colouring pages provided for your relaxation. Create an inspirational bookmark with the provided supplies.

Drop-in to the Notre Dame Campus and Exchange District Campus libraries anytime.

Check out a book or ebook from the Healthy Minds, Healthy College collection (see display at NDC library).

Including:

• Aki-Wayn-zih : A Person As Worthy As the Earth
• Psychology of physical activity : determinants, well-being and interventions
• The medicine path : a return to the healing ways of our indigenous ancestors
• The gifts of imperfection let go of who you think you’re supposed to be and embrace who you are
• Healing through the dark emotions : the wisdom of grief, fear and despair
• Peace is every step : the path of mindfulness in everyday life
• College students’ sense of belonging : a key to educational success for all students

Join Ms. J. La’s Fur Babies Cat Café & Adoption Centre. Sign up now as spots fill up fast! If you would like, you are welcome to bring cat food donations. 

Date: November 4, 2024
Time: 11:30am to 1:30pm (sign up here for a 30-minute slot) 
Location: NDC – The Cave

No walk-in availability.

Take a moment to unwind with a relaxing 10-minute chair massage, right here on campus.

Licensed Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) will be available to ease your tension, leaving you refreshed and ready to tackle your academic challenges.

Registration required, pick only one slot – sign up for you massage today! Exchange District Campus in P107 from 11:30am to 1:30pm.

The Social Justice Coffee house will be a collaborative event where participants are welcome to attend as audience members and/or as performers.

Participants can sign up to share readings (poetry, fiction, non-fiction), sing songs, engage in discussions, or have cultural exchanges about social justice topics.

The goal is to have a safe space to voice thoughts and feelings on social justice matters, connect with peers, and learn and grow.

Monday, Nov. 4, 2024 from 12-1pm in Prairie Lights at Notre Dame Campus. Light refreshments will be served.

Click on this link to fill out the form to register

Calling all students! Join us for an exciting Mini-Game Competition where fun meets fitness. This event is designed for teams of three, but you can register as an individual, duo, or trio—it’s up to you! You’ll compete in six fun-filled mini-games, including basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, and more.

At each station, teams will earn puzzle pieces after completing a challenge. Collect all the pieces, complete your puzzle, and race to the finish line at the South Gym stage! The first team to finish wins their choice of a club t-shirt or a $15 Tim Hortons gift card.

And it doesn’t stop there! All completers enter a draw for more prizes!

Ready to have fun, make friends, and compete? See you in the library hallway for the start of this unforgettable event!

When: Nov 4, 2024, 3:45 PM to 5:30 PM
Where: Start at the Library Hallway, Finish at the South Gym Stage
Prizes: Club T-shirts, Tim Hortons gift cards, and more!

Don’t miss out—register today!

Come and enjoy the vibrant rhythms of Latin music in this fun, laid-back dance session with Diana Correa. No dance experience is required—just bring your energy and a smile! This class is all about having fun, relaxing, and connecting with the music and each other.

REGISTER – Exchange District Campus, P107: Mondays – 21, 28 and Nov 4, 2024 from 4:30pm to 5:15pm. All welcome to join us for one class or all.

Join Ms. J. La’s Fur Babies Cat Café & Adoption Centre. Sign up now as spots fill up fast! If you would like, you are welcome to bring cat food donations. 

Date: November 5, 2024
Time: 11:30am to 1:30pm (sign up here for a 30-minute slot) 
Location: EDC – P107

No walk-in availability.

Feeling overwhelmed with your studies? Take a moment to unwind during Thrive Week with a relaxing 10-minute, chair massage, right here on campus.

Licensed Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) will be available to ease your tension, leaving you refreshed and ready to tackle your academic challenges.

Registration required, pick only one slot – sign up for you massage today! Notre Dame Campus in Prairie Lights from 11:30am to 1:30pm.

This hand’s-on Carpentry/Cabinetry and Woodworking activity teaches participants how to create their very own portable, wooden finger-labyrinth.

You may have seen the large scale labyrinths created in gardens, parks and fields. A spiral-type design that people slowly walk around for meditation and peace. These are mini labyrinths that you can carry around with you, ready for a quick calm down or meditation on the spot.

REGISTER for only ONE of three possible sessions:

• Session one – from 1pm to 1:45pm
• Session two – from 2pm to 2:45pm
• Session three – from 3pm to 3:45pm

Notre Dame Campus in B1-19A. Please wear runners or boots (closed-toed footwear) and long pants. All other materials supplied.

In honour of National Inuit Day on Thursday, November 7, 2024 – Join us in watching Ever Deadly, this movie weaves concert footage with stunning sequences filmed on location in Nunavut, seamlessly bridging landscapes, stories and songs with pain, anger and triumph—all through the expressions of Tanya Tagaq, one of the most innovative musical performers of our time.

This film discusses topics of trauma and abuse. Viewer discretion is advised.

This event has been changed from in-person at EDC to virtual viewing. Or attend at NDC on Thursday at lunch hour. Thank you!

Join us on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 in The CAVE (NDC) for our a Community Open-Mic: Thrive Week Edition!

Nahuen Music be there with the mics, lyrics and lights. Browse the Karafun Catalogue and decide which songs you’ll be singing.

Drop by – take a break in The Cave student lounge to play some giant games, eat your lunch with some popcorn and drinks provided.

Notre Dame Campus, Wednesday, November 6, 2024, 11am to 1pm, The Cave, DM30

The Coca-Cola Hug Machine will be onsite near the Campus Store. You hug it, it returns the favour with a Coke. Because vending machines have feelings too.

Unfortunately, we had to cancel this session.

Learn about the foundational movements of Breaking, and their connection to Hip Hop culture with instructor, Mooki. Classes will be focused around learning steps, and terminology which will provide students a knowledge base to take the dance into their own hands.

Take some time to unwind and reconnect with your body with yoga instructor Jaimie Bristow. A class for all levels focusing on slow rhythmic movements and long gentle stretching to explore opening all areas of the body. Class begins and ends with varying forms of pranayama (breathwork), and/or mindfulness based stress reduction techniques.

Suitable for all levels, mats are provided for in-person sessions.

• Wednesdays In-Person – REGISTER – 12:10 to 12:50pm, Notre Dame Campus, Immersion Room (GM33), near North Gym.
• Wednesdays Virtual and Recording Access – REGISTER – 12:10 to 12:50pm *Access to recording for one week post-class.

Learn practical self defense techniques in a friendly and fun atmosphere. Gain confidence and fitness while adding tools and techniques to the martial arts toolkit. While this is the last class of five independent workshops, a person can still attend and gain benefit.

Come to this class and learn something new. Wednesday, November 6, 2024, 4:15pm to 5:15pm, in P107.

REGISTER or find out more class detail.

In honour of National Inuit Day today – Join us in watching Ever Deadly, this movie weaves concert footage with stunning sequences filmed on location in Nunavut, seamlessly bridging landscapes, stories and songs with pain, anger and triumph—all through the expressions of Tanya Tagaq, one of the most innovative musical performers of our time.

This film discusses topics of trauma and abuse. Viewer discretion is advised.

Drop-in, Thursday, November 7, 2024 from 11:30am to 1 pm in the NDC F209.

Join Chaley Martens after school or work for a 45-minute hatha yoga class to unwind from your day. This class will build on mindful movement and breathing to gently challenge the mind and body, but leave you feeling relaxed. No experience is necessary. Suitable for all levels and mats are provided. Registration required.

REGISTER – Exchange District Campus, P107: Thursdays 4:15pm to 5pm

Join us on Thursday, November 7, 2024 in room P107 (EDC/Roblin Campus) for our monthly Community Open-Mic: Thrive Week Edition!

Nahuen Music be there with the mics, lyrics and lights. Browse the Karafun Catalogue and decide which songs you’ll be singing.

Drop by – take a break in to play some giant games, eat your lunch with some popcorn and drinks provided.

Exchange District Campus, Friday, November 8, 2024, 11am to 1pm, in the Dining Hall near Tim Hortons.

The Coca-Cola Hug Machine will be onsite as well. You hug it, it returns the favour with a Coke. Because vending machines have feelings too.

This year mini-golf meets campus-wide scavenger hunt! Explore Notre Dame campus scouting out the different mini-golf holes hosted by RRC Polytech’s support services and executives.

Start your tour in the Library, get your scorecard and complete the first hole! When you’ve completed the course, return to the Library with your filled-out scorecard to enter the prize draw.

Never played before? You’ll still have loads of fun. End your thrive week with a hole-in-one!

Drop-in: Come as a group or on your own.

Notre Dame Campus Library: Friday, November 8, 2024 from 12:00 to 2:00 pm.

A dynamic class adapted for all levels that builds heat moving through postures with more continuous movement. Poses are linked together with the breath in a flowing sequence. Various ideas and themes are explored with instructor Jaimie Bristow.

REGISTER – Virtual: Fridays 12:15 to 12:45pm

Note: Links for virtual sessions will be emailed to registrants separately. Friday classes are not recorded.

Spend some time in nature – join fellow students and staff for a guided walk through the Chickadee Trail at Birds Hill Park. We will spend some time bird watching and walking through the trails.

Session Details:
Saturday, Nov 9, 2024: Chartered Bus (Limited Seating) OR Meet at Chickadee Trail.

Roundtrip Chartered Bus – 9:45am to 1pm
Registration is CLOSED – Thank you!

Round trip transportation to Birds Hill Park is provided free of charge.

Meet at the Notre Dame Campus bus loop at 9:45am where we will be transported together by chartered bus. You may also register family members to attend (space permitting).

The bus will also stop at the Exchange District Campus after NDC. Please be ready outside the Manitou a bi Bii daziigae front doors for pick up around 10 am.

We will drop off in reverse order, EDC then NDC and should return to the NDC bus loop by 1pm.

OR

Meet at Chickadee Trailhead at 10:40am in Birds Hill Provincial Park.

Dress appropriately for the weather. The walk will be cancelled in the event of heavy winds, rain or hail.

Invisible mental illnesses are conditions that don’t have outward physical symptoms. These include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and others. Unlike a broken arm or a visible injury, these illnesses often go unnoticed by others, making it harder for individuals to seek or receive help.  

Research indicates that mental illnesses like major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) are among the most prevalent invisible conditions, affecting millions worldwide. Statistics Canada reports, in 2022, more than 5 million people in Canada met the diagnostic criteria for a mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder, with the prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders increasing substantially over the previous 10 years.

Post-secondary students are particularly vulnerable to invisible mental illnesses. The transition to post-secondary education brings new academic challenges, social dynamics, and often a loss of familiar support systems. These pressures can exacerbate pre-existing conditions or trigger new mental health challenges. 

A 2023 survey conducted by The Canadian Alliance of Student Associations found that 70% of post-secondary students reported feelings of anxiety, and over 40% reported symptoms of depression. Invisible mental illnesses can make it difficult for students to concentrate on their studies, attend classes, or participate in social activities. Yet, because the signs aren’t always visible, others—including instructors, and peers — may not realize what they are going through, leading to further isolation. 

One of the greatest challenges for those with invisible mental illnesses is overcoming the stigma attached to mental health. While mental health awareness has grown in recent years, students with conditions like depression or PTSD might hesitate to reach out for help, fearing judgment or misunderstanding. 

The stigma is often rooted in the misconception that mental illness is a weakness or something that can simply be “snapped out of.” A study from The Journal of Psychiatric Services highlights that this stigma often prevents students from accessing the mental health services they need, resulting in untreated or worsening symptoms. 

• Educate Yourself
  • Understanding that mental illness isn’t always visible is the first step toward reducing stigma. Educating yourself about the realities of conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD can make you more empathic and supportive to those around you.  
• Check In on Your Friends  
  • If a friend or peer seems distant or isn’t acting like themselves, take the time to check in. Sometimes, students with invisible mental illnesses need someone to listen without judgment. A simple conversation can make a world of difference. 
  • If you don’t know how to approach the conversation or don’t feel comfortable doing so, you are welcome to make an Early Assist Referral
• Prioritize Self-Care  
  • If you’re living with an invisible mental illness, it’s important to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. Research shows that regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can positively impact mental health. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and support groups can also be effective tools for managing symptoms. 
• Know the Resources Available
  • RRC Polytech has mental health resources available to you. Click here to learn more about them.
  • Click here to access community crisis, health, counselling, and mental health resources.
  • Knowing where and how to access these resources can be life changing. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, early intervention through counseling or therapy can significantly improve outcomes for those living with mental illness. 

Invisible mental illnesses are real, valid, and deserve attention. These conditions can present unique challenges, but with proper support and understanding, it is possible to thrive. Whether you are living with an invisible mental illness or supporting someone who is, education, empathy, and access to resources are key to making a difference!