Photo credit: Nolan Bicknell

Red River College student Kieran Moolchan is open and honest about his mental health struggles. In fact, he bravely told the whole world about his experiences with depression and contemplating suicide on his blog.

“I wanted to help breakdown stigma but I was also reaching out for help,” said Kieran. “I poured my heart out and with one click — I told everyone what was really going on with me.”

The beginning of a long-road

After going public on the Internet with his struggles in August, Kieran received an outpouring of support from friends, acquaintances, college instructors and even people he’d never met. At that time, he decided to seek help from a psychologist and began taking anti-depressants for depression.

Over the next few months, Kieran experienced many ups and downs. Eventually, he was diagnosed with bipolar II disorder — a condition that involves feeling ‘up’ for several weeks at a time and then crashing and feeling extremely low.

In January, Kieran began having suicidal thoughts again and turned to his blog to express how he was feeling. He wrote about how close he had come yet again to taking his own life and about the stigma people with mental illnesses face — a blog post that would receive more than 100,000 views.

Getting help

About a month later, Kieran spent some time at the Mental Health Crisis Response Centre at the Health Sciences Centre. It was there that it began to sink in that his mental illness was not his fault.

“I finally accepted that I wasn’t a personal failure for feeling the way I did,” said Kieran. “It sunk in that I don’t have control over the chemicals in my body. I also learned that the best thing I can do is come up with plans and that I need to rely on other people to help me make and stick to those plans.”

One day at a time

It’s been several months since Kieran’s visit to the Mental Health Crisis Response Centre and he is making and sticking to his plans. He’s also involving friends to help him stay accountable.

“If I want to go for a run, I’ll phone someone to go with me. If I feel like playing video games for an hour, I’ll text someone to see if they want to join me online. It doesn’t really matter what it is that I’m doing, as long as I commit to it, I’ll feel a sense of accomplishment, which helps with my mood and maintaining a positive outlook.”

And blogging?

He’s still at it — check out his latest posts at kieranmoolchan.com

Lauren MacLean is president of the Red River College Students’ Association. She is completing her second year of Business Administration with an accounting major. After receiving her RRC diploma she plans to continue her studies towards a Commerce degree. 

School is enough to stress anyone out, particularly at a fast-paced applied institution like Red River College.

In my program, Business Administration, we take six classes at a time. So when I decided to run to be the VP External of the Red River College Students’ Association (RRCSA) in February of my first year, it wasn’t an easy decision. I knew things were going to be intense and I wasn’t sure if I could do it, so I turned to my personal supports for advice.

I asked my parents, grandparents, sister, teachers, the VP External at the time and my friends what they thought. I received contrasting advice at times, everything from that they thought I would be fabulous at the job to others saying it was too much for me and that I would likely quit early.

In the end, I decided to go for it. After receiving the great news that I was voted in, I extended my program and delayed my graduation by one year so I could work with the RRCSA. I was so nervous and scared that going into my first term I was half-expecting my marks to tank and to have to resign. I figured I would be overwhelmed with responsibilities that I would collapse into a teary mess.

Then, on May 1, 2013 when it actually came time for me to step into the role, I was soaring! Each day got better and better as I launched projects with my team and flew around the country representing the RRCSA at conferences. It was like a light came on and I immediately understood what it meant to be driven, want to give back and thrive under pressure.

Then school hit, and man the pressure on! I went from having time to work on things, to having lightning-fast deadlines. Right before winter break hit was the most difficult time as I was attempting to tie up what felt like hundreds of loose ends before everyone left. December was the worst month I’d had in a long time.

But the funny thing is, I never once considered quitting. It’s like that option didn’t exist. I simply didn’t want or need an exit, no matter how hard things got. Through the all-nighters, massive projects and tight deadlines, I was still having fun! My support network was growing and soon my stress level became more manageable, which gave me the confidence to continue on.

This experience is what gave me the strength to run for President this year. Believe me, this position is a whole other beast, but every day I’m reminded of how many amazing people work and go to school at RRC. There’s simply no challenge I wouldn’t take on for these people, especially because I know I’m not in this alone. When the going gets tough, I’m not afraid or ashamed to turn to my support network to help get me through.

Many students find studying and writing exams very stressful. So you’re certainly are not alone if that’s you.

In fact, it’s very normal to feel anxiety about only having a certain amount of time to answer a bunch of tough questions — who wouldn’t!

Depending on your situation, you may be able to get extra time to write exams as well as other accommodations through Exam Services. For example, if you have a diagnosed disability or you experience significant test anxiety then you could be eligible. The first step to finding out if you’re eligible is to schedule an appointment with a counsellor by filling out the online intake form.

If you’re approved for exam accommodations, the next step is to speak with someone in exam accommodations to schedule your exam(s). This must be done at least seven days before your exam.

If you find out you don’t meet the eligibility for exam accommodations, there are still things you can do to help reduce your stress levels around exams. Here are just a few of them:

• deep breathing
• positive thinking
• taking a study-break to listen to music
• going to bed early the night before an exam
• eating regular meals (even if you don’t feel like eating, make sure to get some food in your system before writing a test or exam).

Want more tips? Check out this article on overcoming test anxiety.

https://www.ted.com/talks/kevin_breel_confessions_of_a_depressed_comic#t-49611

Kevin Breel is a comic. He also happens to have depression. These seemly contradictory characteristics make him who he is — engaging, real and unapologetic when it comes to talking about his mental illness.

Check out his TED talk above for an interesting look into the mind of this pretty amazing young person.

Red River College grad, Kyle Goertzen dealt with substance abuse most of his life. Sober for more than three years now, he works at the Addictions Foundation of Manitoba, Tamarack Recovery Centre and Two Ten Recovery. He is also on the Canadian Mental Health Association Winnipeg’s Speakers Bureau and completing his bachelor of social work through the University of Manitoba.

Red River College Applied Counselling graduate, Kyle Goertzen works three jobs, volunteers and mentors young people trying to get sober. He’s positive, driven, smart and funny. But it was a long, difficult road getting here — to a place where he’s happy and comfortable being himself.

Addiction

At 13-years-old, Kyle had his first sip of alcohol. By 15, Kyle was regularly drinking and smoking pot and by 18, he was addicted to cocaine. As his drinking and drug use continued into his late teens and twenties, his family and friends urged him to get help. But like many people struggling with addiction, Kyle was very good at hiding just how deep his problem was, even from himself.

“It’s kind of like B.O. — you’re the last one to know or think you have a problem,” says Kyle. “I convinced myself that everything was fine because I could hold it together for a week, but then I’d try having one drink on the weekend and everything would spiral out of control. It would turn into a five-day-long binge.”

Eventually, Kyle recognized he had a problem with drugs and alcohol, but he still wasn’t ready to do anything about it. In the grips of his addiction, Kyle lied, stole and manipulated his way through life. Everything from school to his relationships took a backseat to getting alcohol and drugs. At his worst, he would think about all the things his peers were doing — dating, going to school, working — and felt completely alone and depressed.

“I became a recluse because inside, I was ashamed of what I was doing. I wouldn’t go out and drink with friends, instead, I’d grab as much booze and drugs as I could and sit in the basement by myself. I knew what I was doing was wrong, but at that point I didn’t care.”

Hitting rock-bottom

Things came to a head when Kyle was arrested for drinking and driving a stolen vehicle. His parents were desperate for him to get help, but they were also exhausted with his behaviour and out of ideas about what to do. So, they refused to bail him out. Kyle spent the next four months in jail, which turned out to be the wake-up call he needed to start turning his life around.

“Laying on the floor of my cell, I had an epiphany. I was 25, in jail and going through withdrawal. I just remember thinking, “I’m done”. I couldn’t lie to myself anymore. I was the problem and I couldn’t blame anyone else. I promised myself that once I got out of there, I was going to do something about my behaviour.”

Recovery

That something turned out to be a fourth stint in rehab, but this time, with a mindset that getting sober was the only option. For 60 days Kyle did everything from group therapy to counselling and this time — he did it for himself. From learning about addiction and mental health issues to participating in a 12-step program, it was a completely different experience – especially after meeting the person who would become his mentor.

“I found someone I could relate to and connect with who had been through something similar. The instant I felt the connection, I knew I was in the right place. I thought, if this person can stay sober for 10 years, then I can do it too. That’s what really did it for me.”

With the support of his recovery team including his parents, Kyle has made a lot of changes to his life. He went on antidepressants for a year to stabilize his moods, chooses to only surround himself with people supportive of him staying sober and continues to work at the 12-step program daily. Kyle’s been sober for more than three years now and is enjoying life and using his story to help others.

“The happiness that I feel now…I can’t even describe it. I feel better than I ever have. I’m sober and I’ve found my purpose — helping other people get sober. Seeing the light come back in their eyes is simply amazing.”

Think you might be struggling with substance abuse?

Complete the online intake form to book an appointment with a counsellor in Counselling and Accessibility Services or visit the Addictions Foundation of Manitoba website for more information.

When starting a relationship or friendship with a person diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it’s important to know that while their condition may present some challenges, the rewards of having them in our life can also be great! So don’t get caught up in labels. Instead, educate yourself about ASD so you can be there for your new friend or partner.

Characteristics
Some common traits of a person diagnosed with ASD include high levels of creativity, attention to detail and unconventional problem solving. Other, sometimes challenging traits include communication difficulties, difficulty with social interaction and restrictive or repetitive interests or behaviours. Additionally, many individuals with ASD have reported some sensory issues, including hypersensitivity to touch, taste and smell, light or sound.

Myth-buster
It is a misconception that people diagnosed with Autism don’t want intimacy or connection. Fostering relationships is a need that exists for many of us, including people living within the spectrum of ASD!

Learn more
There are many helpful resources online if you want to understand the lives of people who identify as having ASD better.

Asperger Manitoba is one local site that provides a wealth of information. You can also look to blogs for candid information about the lives of people with ASD such as musingsofanaspie.com.

Red River College is home to many international students as well as students who have immigrated from countries around the world.

Being new to Canada and adapting to a new culture and school system, can bring on unique challenges. For example, if English isn’t your first language, you may be finding it difficult to communicate with others and make friends. If you’re living on your own for the first time, you may be feeling lonely or isolated at times.

Getting involved at RRC

Diversity and Intercultural Services is one area of the college that can help you adjust to life in Canada and at RRC. The Diversity Centre at the Notre Dame Campus is a great place to meet other immigrant and international students.

“The centre is often referred to as “a home away from home,” said Lauren Konrad, student integration coordinator. “Students experiencing similar parts of student life often meet there and hang out. Students also come there to chat with staff and get connected to resources.”

At the Exchange District Campus, the Diversity and Intercultural Services office located in the Massey Building is a place you can go to visit with staff, sign up for programs and get connected to different resources.

Your mental health is important

It’s important to know that there are also resources available if you’re feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed or not quite yourself. The mental health conversation may not be happening in the same way in all parts of the world, but in Canada and at RRC, good mental health is a top priority. You should never feel scared or ashamed to tell someone if you think you might be struggling with a mental health issue.

Let your student integration coordinator know if you think you might want to talk to someone about how you’ve been feeling. You can also contact Counselling and Accessibility Services directly by completing the online intake form.

Here are some supports and resources for immigrant and international students:

• RRC’s Language Training Centre
  While attending RRC’s Language Training Centre (LTC), you will learn English language skills, interact with other students and explore RRC’s many different career programs. To discuss career programs and adjusting to life in Winnipeg, contact Jillian Hoogland, student integration coordinator, at 204-945-8776 or by email at jhoogland@rrc.ca.

You can also arrange to meet with a counsellor at the LTC to discuss any difficulties you may be going through. To make a counselling appointment, please contact Vidhu Bhanot, counsellor, at 204-945-8774 or email at vbhanot@rrc.ca.
• Manitoba Start
  Provides settlement, language, and employment supports to newcomers, free of charge.

• Immigrant Centre

  Assists new immigrants with connecting and integrating in Canadian Society through a variety of programs and services.
• Needs Centre

  Provides services and supports such as mentorship, after-school programming and employment skills training to refugee children and youth, and their families.
• Mount Carmel Clinic

  A community health care centre serving the North End and Point Douglas areas.
• West Central Women’s Resource Centre
  
Provides programs and services such as child-minding, mentorship and immigrant settlement services to primarily women living in and around West Central Winnipeg.

Many students find the transition from university to college challenging. With all of the readings, assignments and group projects that occur in condensed, applied programs, college can actually be more difficult. It’s very challenging to balance a personal life and work life while completing such demanding programs, but it’s important to try and do so. If we don’t, we will often turn to ways of coping that can be harmful to us in the long run.

For instance, drinking lots of coffee to stay awake/alert and reducing the amount of sleep we need does work, but only for a few days at the most. Some people try to use alcohol or drugs as a way to feel better and cope. We do these things because they give us fast results, but this is deceiving because they aren’t effective coping strategies in the long-run. Eventually, coping this way will cause us to run our bodies and minds down. We can even risk developing longer term problems such as substance abuse issues.

While it might seem counterproductive, sometimes it’s about squeezing things into our busy schedules that will actually help us be more efficient in the end. For example, by giving our bodies the rest they need, we can approach challenges with a fresh perspective. With a clear mind, we are often better able to tackle problems and in less time than when we’re running on empty.

Making healthier food choices and preparing our own meals can take more time than hitting a drive thru, but it also gives us food that provides us with energy and nutrition that will fuel us for much longer. Cooking food at home can also give us a much-needed distraction and break.

Sometimes, figuring out how to add more things into our lives when we feel like we don’t have enough time as it is, can be difficult. Talking with a counsellor about our time management skills and how to access support from the Academic Success Centre can help steer us in the right direction.

Anger is a normal reaction to situations that we feel are frustrating, overwhelming or out of our control. All the stresses associated with school can certainly lead us to feel this way.

For some people, anger is triggered more easily and felt more intensely. If you think you might be one of those people, you may want to talk to someone like a counsellor about how to manage your emotions. You may also want to talk to someone if:

• when feeling angry you also feel overwhelmed and out of control
• the intensity of the anger you feel doesn’t always fit the situation
• anger feels like your primary emotion
• your relationships are suffering as a result of your anger
• anger is causing you to act out violently

Recognizing that your anger might be a problem is the first step in learning how to manage it. If you don’t want to talk to someone about your anger, there are strategies you can try on your own to help calm and mitigate your anger.

Breathe: breathing will help with the physiological symptoms associated with anger. It will slow your heart rate and help relax your body. Try breathing from your belly instead of your chest. If you put your arms over your stomach you should be able to feel it moving in and out as you take a few deep breaths.

Counting to 10 or 100: counting can allow you some time to de-escalate. Try counting until you feel your anger as become less intense.

Time out: If you can, take a break from the situation that is triggering your anger. It’s OK to excuse yourself from class and go outside and get a breath of fresh air if this will help you calm down.

Self-talk: pay attention to what you are saying in your head. Are you focusing on things that are making you more angry? Try repeating phrases like “relax”, “take it easy”, “calm down” and “I’m over it.”

Distract: think of a person, place, thing or activity that brings you a sense of calm or enjoyment. The more you practice this the easier it gets.

Click here for some more tips on controlling anger.

Aboriginal students face unique mental health challenges. Historical issues such as colonization, and Aboriginal residential schools have negatively impacted Aboriginal culture and tradition. These impacts are continuing to be felt by younger generations, including many Aboriginal students at RRC.

Moving to a new community can also be scary and stressful and many Aboriginal students choose to move from their home communities to pursue their education at RRC. Relocating and adjusting to a new home and school environment can be difficult.

If you are an Aboriginal student, know that there are specific supports available to you. The Aboriginal Centre is a welcoming, friendly place at the Notre Dame Campus with a lounge area, computer lab and a team of staff who are happy to assist you. Room P210J at the Exchange District Campus also offers similar services and you can drop by there anytime.

Other areas of interest and support include RRC’s Traditional Teachers, Aboriginal Liaison/Advisors and Aboriginal Student Support & Community Relations including their Facebook Page.

You may also want to talk to someone about what you’re going through. RRC has free, confidential counsellors in Counselling and Accessibility Services. From help adjusting to a new community to support with mental health concerns or financial counselling, a counsellor can help you work through any problems that you have.

To book an appointment with a counsellor, complete and submit the online intake form. Someone contact you shortly to set up an appointment.