5 FAQs

In this episode of 5 FAQs by EHN Canada, we sit down with Christina McNeill, Manager of Clinical Services at Acclaim Ability Management, to explore what returning to work after addiction or mental health treatment really looks like. Drawing on her leadership of the Mental Health Ecosystem and her multidisciplinary clinical background, Christina shares practical insights on reintegration, workplace communication, and sustaining recovery in high-pressure environments. This conversation highlights how coordinated care, ongoing therapy, and meaningful social support can help individuals return to work with confidence, without compromising their well-being.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL ANSWER:<...

Duration: 00:39:44

In this episode of 5 FAQs by EHN Canada, we sit down with Dr. Ramasubbu, psychiatrist and trauma specialist, to explore trauma and PTSD through a clinical, cultural, and deeply human lens. Drawing on his work supporting members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Dr. Ramasubbu breaks down what PTSD really is, why it affects people differently, and how military culture can shape both help-seeking and recovery. From early intervention to long-term care, this conversation highlights evidence-based approaches that honour both mental health and service.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL ANSWER:

We hear the term PTSD...

Duration: 00:41:17

In this episode of 5 FAQs by EHN Canada, we sit down with Jason MacKenzie, leadership coach, author, and grief expert, for an honest conversation about love, loss, and healing. Having endured profound personal tragedy, Jason has transformed his pain into purpose, helping others navigate the complexities of grief with courage and compassion. From understanding how grief evolves over time to learning how to show up for others who are suffering, Jason shares hard-earned wisdom that challenges the myths of “moving on” and redefines what healthy grieving can look like.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL ANSWER:

Ho...

Duration: 00:44:16

In this episode of 5 FAQs by EHN Canada, we sit down with Geoff Ingram, National Research &Measurement-Based Care Coordinator at EHN Canada, to unpack what measurement-based care really means, specifically from the client’s perspective. Drawing from his lived experience in recovery and his work in research and clinical practice, Geoff sheds light on how data-driven insights can create more personalized, responsive, and empowering treatment experiences. Together, we explore how this approach bridges the gap between science and compassion, giving clients a stronger voice in their own healing journey.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL ANSWER:

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Duration: 00:28:13

In this episode of 5 FAQs by EHN Canada, we sit down with Susan Raphael, author of What’s Wrong with My Teen?, to explore how addiction and mental health challenges affect the entire family system. Drawing on her expertise and lived experience, Susan offers compassionate insights into the complex emotions, communication struggles, and healing opportunities that arise when a teen is in crisis. From breaking down myths about “tough love” to finding balance between support and self-care, this conversation helps families move from fear and frustration toward understanding and recovery.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL ANSWER:

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Duration: 00:34:32

In this episode of 5 FAQs by EHN Canada, we sit down with Jeanne Foote, founder of The Recovery Concierge, to explore the hidden costs of compassion fatigue among caregivers and helping professionals. From recognizing the subtle signs that often go unnoticed to building resilience through mindfulness, boundaries, and self-compassion, Jeanne offers practical insights that blend clinical expertise with lived experience. Together, we examine how helpers can sustain their capacity to care without losing themselves in the process.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL ANSWER:

What exactly is compassion fatigue, and how does it differ from...

Duration: 00:32:47

You’ve probably heard about the challenges cancer survivors face, but what about the emotional and mental health struggles that continue long after treatment ends? How can survivors manage anxiety, depression, and the weight of ongoing uncertainty, while also building resilience for the future? And what role do community, communication, and support play in recovery?

In this episode of 5 FAQs by EHN Canada, we sit down with Michael Friedman, cancer survivor, mixing & mastering engineer and drummer extraordinaire.  Michael, who also happens to be the host’s brother, shares his personal journey through treatment, recovery, and the o...

Duration: 00:28:30

In this episode of 5 FAQs by EHN Canada, we sit down with Sydney Marcoux, MSW, RSW, Clinical Director at Victim Services of Durham Region, to unpack the realities of gender-based violence and its far-reaching impact. From recognizing early warning signs to supporting survivors with compassion, Sydney helps us separate fact from misconception, while shedding light on the emotional, psychological, and social challenges people face when seeking help.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL ANSWER:

What exactly is gender-based violence, and how does it differ from other forms of violence or abuse?What are...

Duration: 00:31:30

You’ve probably heard the word breathwork tossed around, but what does it really mean? Can something as simple as breathing help calm the body, manage trauma, and build resilience in high-pressure professions? And how does it actually stack up against practices like meditation or yoga?

In this episode of 5 FAQs by EHN Canada, we sit down with Emily Day from EHN Guardians Gateway to explore how intentional breathing techniques can become a powerful tool for military members, first responders, and anyone living under constant stress. From daily routines to common myths, Emily he...

Duration: 00:26:43

In this episode of 5 FAQs, we sit down with Jordan Anderson, Executive Director of Alpha House Toronto—a sober living facility dedicated to supporting individuals in early recovery—to explore the critical gaps in mental health care across Canada.As the country continues to grapple with a growing mental health and addiction crisis, access to timely, equitable, and compassionate care remains a major concern. 

Today's 5 FAQs:

What barriers prevent equitable access to mental health care across different populations?How does income inequality influence mental health outcomes?What measures are being considered to address the menta...

Duration: 00:38:57

In this episode of 5 FAQs, we sit down with Crystal Bell, Executive Director of Outpatient Services at EHN Canada, to tackle the five most searched questions about virtual therapy. As mental health care continues to evolve, virtual therapy has become a lifeline for thousands—but there’s still a lot of confusion about how it works, who it’s for, and whether it’s as effective as in-person treatment. Crystal brings her clinical expertise and frontline experience to answer the top FAQs, including:

Is virtual therapy as effective as in-person sessions for treating mental health or addictio...

Duration: 00:22:22

To kick off this brand new season of 5 FAQs by EHN Canada, it is our pleasure to announce our special guest, Patrick De Belen.

Patrick is a community builder, a coach, a mentor and an artist in the truest sense of the word.

In this episode, we were excited to tackle the 5 FAQs about mental health in the artist community.

Here are today's 5 FAQs:

How does mental health impact creativity? What strategies can artists use to cope with performance anxiety? What role does community play in an artist's mental health? How can eng...

Duration: 00:29:10

In this very special episode of 5 FAQs by EHN Canada and EHN Guardians, Pamela Dandolo and Jonathan are excited to interview the one...the only.... WAYNE HANNAH!

Wayne is a Veteran and a First responder with over 2 decades of front-line and active duty experience. He is also a mental health advocate in the truest sense of the term. 

In this episode, we were excited to tackle the 5 FAQs about mental health in the Veteran and First Responder communities.

Here are today's 5 FAQs:

What is the stigma surrounding mental health for those in a...

Duration: 00:39:16

What does it actually mean to have resilience and how does one actually explore and build it?

We asked Nick Halmasy from EHN Guardians Gateway, all about this topic, his experience and much much more!

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL ANSWER:     

How do you define resilience? Why is resilience important to first responders?What training exists to foster resilience in this community? How can first responders avoid compassion fatigue and burnout? What does the future of building resilience look like for the first responder community? 

What do you think o...

Duration: 00:42:28

You’ve probably heard the term, but what does PTSD actually mean? Who does it affect? And what does healing really look like? We asked R. Nicholas Carleton, PhD from the University of Regina, these questions and more. Whether you’ve experienced trauma yourself, know someone who has, or simply want to learn more, this episode is for you.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL ANSWER:     

What is PTSD and how does it manifest in individuals who experience it?  What are some common misconceptions about PTSD?  What treatment options are available for individuals dealing with PTSD?  Ho...

Duration: 00:36:36

The landscape of mental health and addiction care is changing every day, including some cutting-edge, evidence-based treatment options. At EHN Canada, we are proud to run EHN Red Deer Recovery Centre, a treatment centre structured around Recovery Oriented Systems of Care (or ROSC). But what is ROSC exactly and how can it help out patients? To find out, we talked to Ben Borger, the Clinical Director of EHN Red Deer Recovery Centre and a true champion of this model of treatment.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL ANSWER:    

What is ROSC?  What is recovery capital?  What...

Duration: 00:23:55

Leaders are the quintessential example of people who forget to take care of themselves and their own mental health. In this episode of 5 FAQs, we explore the challenges that leaders experience, how their mental health is affected, and steps they can take to better care for their own mental health.  

 
THE 5 FAQs WE WILL ANSWER:    

What challenges do leaders typically struggle with when it comes to their mental health?  In what ways do these mental health challenges manifest in a leader's work environment, and how can they affect team dynamics?  How do the pressur...

Duration: 00:33:03

Welcome to 5 FAQs, an EHN Canada Podcast. 

For each episode, we scour the internet for the five most frequently asked questions about a specific topic related to mental health and addiction, and then we go to the experts to get the answers.  

5 FAQs is created and produced by EHN Canada, the country's largest network of publicly funded and private treatment services for addiction, trauma, and mental health. 

What do you think of the show?

Learn more about EHN Canada and starting your own mental health treatment journey at ehncanada.com.

T...

Duration: 00:01:57

Trauma disproportionately impacts military service members, veterans, and first responders. And it is harming both their physical and mental health.  

In this episode of 5 FAQs, we’re joined by our own, Emily Day, Wellness Counsellor at EHN Guardians Gateway in Peterborough, Ontario. 

Together, we explore how holistic wellness and breathwork can support military, veterans, and first responders in their recovery journeys. 

 
THE 5 FAQs WE WILL ANSWER:    

What is mental wellness? How is mental wellness different than mental health or mental illness?  How are mental wellness, breathwork, and holistic care implemented...

Duration: 00:36:40

In the workplace, self-doubt, leadership skills (or lack thereof), and power dynamics all come to a head. 

 In this episode of 5 FAQs, we’re joined by Dr. Meagan Yarmey, Social Psychologist and Clinician. 

 Together we talk about social and behavioural psychology and how these disciplines can create frameworks for great leadership. 

THE 5 FAQs WE WILL ANSWER:    

 1. What is social psychology?  

2. How does research in social psychology inform your approach to understanding workplace dynamics and well-being?   

3. How can a deeper understanding of social psychology help individuals navigate self...

Duration: 00:27:42

We spend half our waking hours at work, so it’s no surprise that our workplaces can impact both our mental health and substance use. 

In this episode of 5 FAQs, we’re joined by Marsha Nicholas, Mental Health & Addictions Consultant.  Together we dive into a fascinating chat about mental health, substance use, and addiction in the workplace. 

THE 5 FAQs WE WILL ANSWER:    

What are the differences between substance use and abuse?  What types of treatment can be implemented on an individual level to support those struggling with addiction at work?  What types of treatment...

Duration: 00:22:07

In this episode of 5 FAQs, we’re joined by our very own, Lindsey Snaychuk, Clinical Psychology PhD Student and National Research Coordinator. She helps us explore Compulsive Sexual Behaviour (more commonly, but less clinically, known as Sex Addiction). 

We explore the psychology behind public Compulsive Sexual Behaviour, how it is different from other types of behavioural addiction and how it affects relationships.
 
THE 5 FAQs WE WILL ANSWER:   

What is sex addiction? How is sex addiction different from other types of behavioural addiction?  What causes sex addiction?  How does sex addiction affect relationships?  What treat...

Duration: 00:30:15

What’s the one thing people fear more than death? Public speaking. 

In this episode of 5 FAQs, we’re joined by Dr. Amanda Tobe to explore a topic near and dear to our hearts: Public Speaking Anxiety.  

We dive into the psychology behind public speaking anxiety, how it affects new and experienced leaders across an organization, and some practical techniques for reducing anxiety when speaking. 

THE 5 FAQs WE WILL ANSWER:  

What are the causes of public speaking anxiety and how do they manifest in individuals?  Why is public speaking anxiety such a co...

Duration: 00:39:55

In this episode of 5 FAQs, we’re joined by Simon Spichak to explore what neurotransmitters are and how they interact with the brain. Then, we take a deep dive into trauma, stress, social media and how they impact mental health. 

THE 5 FAQs WE WILL ANSWER: 
1.  What are some misconceptions about how the brain functions in relation to mental health? 

2. How does brain chemistry influence mental health conditions, and what implications does this have for treatment options?  

3. How do stress and trauma impact brain function and contribute to mental health challenges?  

4...

Duration: 00:33:48

In this episode of 5 FAQs, we’re joined by Dr. Tatijana Busic to discuss mental health and leadership. 
 
We explore how control plays a crucial role in leadership dynamics, the impact of personal experiences on leadership styles, and the importance of understanding the interplay between cognition, emotion, and behaviour.  

THE 5 FAQs WE WILL ANSWER: 

Why do leaders seek to control?    How personal experiences impact a leader's approach to their role and  their effectiveness?  How do cognition, physiology, emotion, and behaviour affect leaders in their day-to-day decision-making?  Why is it crucial for leaders to prioritiz...

Duration: 00:32:44

In this episode of 5 FAQs, host Jonathan Friedman speaks with Dr. Suanne Wong about levels of care when it comes to navigating mental health and addiction care.

Everyone that begins treatment does not arrive at the same place on the spectrum. It’s essential to choose the right level based on individual needs. But because of the stigma that still surrounds topics like depression, trauma, and addiction, many people are afraid to ask questions or talk to their families about their struggles. We went to Dr. Wong to get the answers.

THE 5 FAQs WE WILL AN...

Duration: 00:32:19

In this episode of 5 FAQs, we’re joined by Dr. Jonathan Rom to discuss medication therapy and the treatment of adult ADHD.

ADHD is a neurodivergent condition that affects executive functions, such as time management and focus. Medication, particularly stimulant and non-stimulant medications, is considered the gold standard for treatment. Therapy, including CBT, can also help to develop coping strategies and improve executive functioning.

But people still have questions about their options when it comes to therapy and medication to treat ADHD. We went to Dr. Rom for the answers.

THE 5 FAQs WE WI...

Duration: 00:37:21