MENTAL HEALTH SERIES: STRONGER THROUGH THE SEASONS

Understanding Anxiety and Depressive disorders is important as everyone has either directly experienced or been affected by someone that has gone through anxiety and depressive symptoms. There are many life experiences that can contribute to worry and low mood from historical, childhood and, current traumatic experiences.

Working with Indigenous communities’ mental health challenges are prevalent at all ages and stages of life. Being able to navigate and support mental wellness challenges in life is a skill that is required as a professional and at an individual level.

This free four-part virtual webinar series will provide insight and understanding into how to talk about wellness challenges in a positive and proactive manner.

Registration

Session dates and times are listed below. Registration is required and you must register for each session individually:

Session 1: Understanding Anxiety – Nov. 3, 2025 – 12:00-1:00pm EST

Click here to register

Session 2: Depression and Low Mood – Nov. 10, 2025 – 12:00-1:00pm EST

Click here to register

Session 3: Seasonal Affective Disorder – Nov. 17, 2025 – 12:00-1:00pm EST

Click here to register

Session 4: Grief and the Holidays – Nov. 24, 2025 – 12:00-1:00pm EST

Click here to register

Intended Audience

The intended audience for this series includes, but is not limited to:

• Health care providers and collaterals that work with or in Indigenous communities.
• Nurses (LPNs, RPNs, RNs, NPs) working in or with Indigenous communities in Canada, including those employed by communities, organizations, agencies, health authorities, etc.
• Social Workers, educators or anyone interested in learning about Anxiety and Depression.
• Professionals and community members that would like to enhance their knowledge and skills to understand Mental Wellness challenges.

Session Overviews

Session 1: Understanding Anxiety – Nov. 3, 2025 – 12:00-1:00pm EST

Session 1 will explore Understanding Anxiety. By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Differentiate between everyday stress and clinical anxiety using key behavioral and physical indicators.
• Identify at least three common types of anxiety disorders (e.g., generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder) and their core features.
• Describe how anxiety affects both the body (e.g., physical symptoms) and the mind (e.g., thought patterns).
• Demonstrate at least two evidence-based anxiety management tools (e.g. breathing exercises, grounding techniques, basic CBD strategies).
• Recognize warning signs that indicate the need for professional mental health support.

Click here to register

Session 2: Depression and Low Mood – Nov. 10, 2025 – 12:00-1:00pm EST

Session 2 will explore Depression and Low Mood. By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Recognize common symptoms and warning signs of depression.
• Explain the root causes of depression, including biological, psychological, and social factors.
• Describe how depression can affect motivation, energy levels, and interpersonal relationships.
• Identify a range of treatment options (e.g., therapy, medication) and supportive lifestyle practices that can aid recovery.
• Discuss the importance of human connection and strategies for reducing stigma around depression

Click here to register

Session 3: Seasonal Affective Disorder – Nov. 17, 2025 – 12:00-1:00 pm EST

Session 3 will explore Seasonal Affective Disorder. By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Explain what Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is and how it affects mental health during colder, darker months.
• Differentiate between SAD and major depressive disorder based on symptoms, timing, and duration.
• Identify evidence-based interventions for SAD, including light therapy, vitamin D supplementation, and mood-supporting daily routines.
• Describe the role of structure, sunlight exposure, and community engagement in maintaining mental wellness during the winter season.
• Apply practical tips and strategies to manage low mood and boost resilience during seasonal changes.

Click here to register

Session 4: Grief and the Holidays – Nov. 24, 2025 – 12:00-1:00 pm EST

Session 4 will explore Grief and the Holidays. By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Differentiate between acute grief, complicated grief, and anticipatory grief.
• Describe how holiday seasons can intensify feelings of loss and grief.
• Identify meaningful ways to honor loved ones while participating in holiday celebrations.
• Discuss the role of cultural practices, rituals, and memory-making in processing grief.
• Apply strategies for self-care and providing compassionate support to others during emotionally challenging seasons.

Click here to register

About the Instructors

Tyler Geisler, RSW, MSW – Education Liaison

Tyler Geisler is an Education Liaison with the SE Health First Nations, Inuit and Métis Program and has a private practice where he provides mental health counseling. Tyler has received his Master of Social Work from Dalhousie University and has a certification in play therapy as well as nature and forest therapy. Prior to SE Health, Tyler worked as a Social Worker in various health settings and the past 5 years in tribal health as a Mental Health Therapist and most recently as a Director of Health. Through this experience, Tyler is able to understand and identify needs for patient care outside of the biomedical model to ensure holistic care and how societal structures impact the welfare of others.

Tyler is a father of five boys who enjoys sports, learning, traveling, cultures and being on hikes and at home with his children. He was named one of CBC’s Top 40 Under 40 for community activism and continues to be involved in volunteering and community-based programs.

Doris Warner, BA – Engagement Liaison

Doris Warner joined the SE Health’s First Nations, Inuit and Métis Program in 2011 as an Education Liaison. She carries in her bundle over 30 years of stories and experiences working alongside First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities and organizations across Canada.

In her role with the SE Health First Nations, Inuit and Métis Program, her focus is on relationship development, engagement and collaboration. Doris supports knowledge sharing opportunities, community-led research and mobilization initiatives, specialized

projects, and course development. She works closely with SE Health’s Research Centre and Journey Home Hospice.

Doris is an ally, settler and proud treaty person, her spirit fulfilled in her roles as a daughter, mother, auntie, partner and friend. She is honoured to work for SE Health and is proud of their long-standing commitment to working in collaboration with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities across Canada which honours, respects and acts upon the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.