How many of us have jumped on a fad meal plan, diet pop, and early morning workouts in the hopes of leading a healthier lifestyle? Not saying these fads are healthy or unhealthy, but most of these “healthy” promotions target our physical health.
It is important to cultivate a healthy lifestyle to thrive, but why is mental health often ignored? Mental health has always been an essential facet of general health but long ignored; however, in recent years, the pandemic has opened the curtains on mental health and the critical part it plays in overall health and wellbeing.
Just as physical injuries and illnesses can lead to unhappiness, distress and impaired functioning in crucial areas, such as work, school, and relationships, so too can mental health issues. Professionals from various disciplines, including psychologists, social workers, and psychiatrists, dedicate their lives to helping those who are not living their best lives due to mental health issues.
One of those gems here in Thunder Bay is Sullivan + Associates Clinical Psychology, founded by Thunder Bay resident Trevor Sullivan and his wife, Jennifer, consisting of around 40 mental health practitioners.
The couple began their practice over a decade ago in their home after converting their basement into four therapy offices. Their practice has since evolved to a 40-room mental health clinic that offers a wide range of services. Rather than focusing on a single target group, Sullivan + Associates provides services for all age groups: children, teens, and adults.
They offer evidence-based treatment for a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and adjustment issues, for clients of all ages.
“The last 21 months have been a challenge for everyone, and what we’ve noticed in our clinic is that the stress of being in a pandemic has contributed to making pre-existing problems or stressors worse. So, in a lot of ways, the pandemic has created a perfect storm for mental health issues, particularly during lengthy lockdowns that placed restrictions on many of the positive coping strategies used to support mental health,” says Trevor.
“Children and teens have been particularly impacted by this unique time in history. In the coming months, we look forward to providing monthly articles to help parents support their children and teens dealing with mental health issues made worse by the pandemic. Common challenges include mood difficulties, social anxiety, and low self-confidence”.
Ultimately, the goal of Sullivan + Associates is to help reduce the stigma around mental health and provide helpful strategies to support mental health for people of all ages so that everyone can live the life they deserve.
