Moving forward, moving strong

Moving forward, moving strong

by | Apr 18, 2025 | Community, Courage, Friday Inspiration, PTSD

Moving forward, moving strong

Five years ago today, marks the anniversary of one of the hardest days Nova Scotia has ever seen. None of us have forgotten the losses incurred and sacrifices made.

Resilience is defined by our ability to get back up after we’ve been knocked down. Over this time period our Landing Strong community has grown significantly both in numbers and in steps forward in recovery. It takes courage to allow oneself to be seen following injury.

We are running not just programs, but also numerous social outings and community volunteer initiatives. This June we plan to showcase the creative talents and skills of our members in our 3rd annual Recognition Celebration and first ever Artisanal Fair (Friday June 13th in the afternoon).

Yes, there have been dark days, but we move forward as a community and province, doing everything in our power to keep our citizens safe, healthy and strong.

The Artisanal Fair will be a celebration of all that has been overcome and the opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead. We hope to see you there.

 

Warmly,

 

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

A little exercise goes a long way

A little exercise goes a long way

by | Feb 28, 2025 | Growth, Plan, PTSD, Recovery, Resilience

A little exercise goes a long way

A little exercise goes a long way

Have I mentioned recently that our dog Kira is a scamp?

Half Huskey, half Pomeranian, she’s hard-wired for high levels of activity and social engagement. She likes to play a game with us called “How long is your toilet paper roll?”

If we haven’t taken her outside for sufficient exercise, she darts downstairs when we’re not looking and papers the entire first floor. She knows she’s not allowed to, so she retreats to the timeout spot immediately afterward, awaiting our reproach. She just can’t help herself.

Kira’s behaviors serve as a reminder of the importance of exercise as part of our daily regime to maintain good mental health. This time of year it’s easy to hunker in, wrap ourselves in cuddly blankets, indulge in comfort foods, and watch more TV than we normally would. Kira knows to expend energy to balance herself while we, on the other hand, tend to do the opposite. To avoid the inevitable slump of winter, our bodies need boosters to recharge.

What activities do you do to inject life into your winter? Even a quick walk around the block can have the same jubilating effect as toilet-papering your home.

We are currently loading up our Overcoming Trauma & Resiliency program. Is your name on the list? We’d love to see you.

 

Warmly,

 

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

Finding Gold at the end of the rainbow

Finding Gold at the end of the rainbow

by | Nov 24, 2023 | Belinda's Thoughts, Community, Friday's Inspiration, Growth, joy, PTSD

Finding gold at the end of the rainbow

Today I walked to work with a skip in my step and a smile on my face.

You see, my office is close to the group room. All week, I had been hearing the animated sounds of connection as participants from three separate programs formed new bonds, shared experiences, and supported one another in their respective journeys of recovery.

I can tell the programs are going well. The warmth and laughter spill across the reception area, like the heartbeat of the building.

On Friday, as I walked to work, all I needed to do was follow the rainbow.  Literally.  It took me directly to Landing Strong.

What a happy way to end a wonderful week.

Warm thoughts,

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

How many psychologists can you fit in an ambulance?

How many psychologists can you fit in an ambulance?

by | Nov 17, 2023 | Belinda's Thoughts, Caregivers, Community, Friday's Inspiration, Leadership, PTSD, Social Media

How many psychologists can you fit into an ambulance?

A few weeks ago, Dr. Petra Woehrle and I joined a group of Psychologists for an experiential training regarding cultural considerations in working with Crown Attorneys and Paramedics.

We listened to personal stories, attended Court, and hopped into an ambulance for some high-speed drills. It was an incredible day but most of all, I was affected by the following information:


• The average career span of a paramedic used to be 5-7 years. Recently it’s been reduced to 3-5.
• The Crown Attorney’s office has lost 20% of its Prosecutors in recent years; a few to retirement, but many have found the conditions of the work too onerous to continue.
• 20% of Nova Scotia Paramedics are currently on leave.
• 25% of Halifax Regional Police are currently on leave.


This day served to renew my commitment to ensuring supports are there for those who need them.

We are grateful indeed for your service,

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

A community of support

A community of support

by | Jan 13, 2023 | Belinda's Thoughts, Community, PTSD, Recovery, Support

A community of support

This week Jen Whalen and I had the pleasure of visiting the Hantsport Fire Department to offer training on Strategies for Staying Healthy and Strong in First Responder Roles. What a great turnout and discussion! The new fire station was gorgeous and the reception warm and welcoming. We’re excited to be working in partnership with our local first responders, having the opportunity to talk strategy regarding injury prevention and recovery. Special thanks to Training Captain Jennifer Daniels for inviting us.

Landing Strong is a hub of positive energy this month. This week we have 48 people enrolled in our intensive programs with our online Emotions Program drawing participants from three different Atlantic Provinces.

Date Night is this Thursday 6-9 pm: For those who are interested it isn’t too late to enroll. Come have an evening of fun, creativity and connection with your loved one – Dinner is on us!

Maintaining Health is next Thursday. Please call ahead to reserve your spot.

I look forward to our Board of Directors Annual Retreat this Saturday. We have a fantastic group of dedicated volunteers who, led by Board Chair Shawn Hiscott and Facilitators Julian Young and Tara Burley, will be working on enriching the long-term vision and strategic plan for our organization. Watch our website soon for a new section introducing all of our Directors.

No moss growing on these rolling stones!

Warm thoughts,

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

A call from the universe

A call from the universe

by | Jan 6, 2023 | Belinda's Thoughts, Courage, PTSD, Recovery, Support

A call from the universe

Hello, I am suffering from severe ptsd, anxiety and depression and am feeling stuck. I need to do something but don’t know what. Are you able to help?

There it is. A call from the universe. Someone who, after years of contemplation, manages to muster the courage to reach out. These are the spectacular moments of bravery that inspire me.

I imagine a solitary soul, standing on a cliff shouting to the universe:

Hello, is anybody out there? Do you hear me? Do you see I am suffering and that I’m alone?

We’re here. I call back. We can’t see you but we hear you. Where are you? Come join us. You’d be welcome and there’s room.

January may be a month of cold, but it warms my heart to meet new members and welcome them to our community.

New programs are starting next week. Virtual and in person. It’s not to late it you’re interested. Just drop us a line or give us a call. It just takes a few moments of courage.

Warm thoughts,

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong