Actions Spark Change: The Power of Volunteerism in Mental Health
February 14, 2024
Hosted by Lynn McLaughlin
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Guest Information
Episode Description
When community members come together and unite through volunteerism, the impact can be profound. How can individuals turn their passion for mental health advocacy into a meaningful impact? What are some innovative ways to complement the support and services that are already in place through government agencies and non-profit organizations? Our guest, Dr. Sharon Pyke, shares the personal and professional journey that led her to the volunteer work she does today, focusing on mental health. Key points of our discussion include the impact of media on those with undiagnosed or untreated mental health challenges. What are the benefits when we normalize talking about it? What are some examples of communities coming together and how do we get past the challenges facing a grassroots movement? How do we foster collaboration through a shared sense of purpose, while thinking outside of the box to become a catalyst for positive change?
Taking the Helm
Weekly Podcast Episodes available on-demand on VoiceAmerica Health and Wellness Channel
My current mission is: To empower children by helping them discover the essential stepping stones they need to strengthen their emotional well-being. The vision is: To cultivate confidence, empathy, responsibility, and self-awareness in children, equipping them with the skills to regulate their emotions in a positive way. Our children deserve to be emotionally healthy as they grow through youth into adulthood. As adults, if we model these behaviors for our children and incorporate them into our own daily lives, imagine the synergy we can create! We have become accustomed to wait for symptoms before we seek help, both emotionally and physically. It's time to change our way of thinking from reactive to proactive. Let's learn what we need to now so kids growing up have skills and strategies to use for life, in this very challenging world.
Lynn McLaughlin
Lynn McLaughlin has served in many roles as an educator … Superintendent, Principal, Vice-Principal, Teacher, and Educational Consultant. As a best-selling and award-winning author, Lynn has now teamed up with her niece, Amber Raymond, to co-author a children’s book series titled, “The Power of Thought”. Both are passionate about being proactive when it comes to children’s mental health. When children learn to manage their emotions at a young age, they learn to problem-solve and find positive solutions to everyday situations. Lynn has hosted the podcast, Taking the Helm for over three years. One of her guests might be the change agent you need in your own life! Lynn’s professional speaking experiences have been local, provincial, and international. She offers virtual and in-person interactive presentations geared toward parents and school communities focusing on emotional well-being. Dedicated to community causes, Lynn is a member of 100 Women Who Care Windsor/Essex and is a Rotarian. As a brain tumour survivor, she works tirelessly to support the goals of the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada.
