How can people navigate media consumption, improve their sleep and support someone experiencing anxiety? University of Waterloo clinical psychology graduate students are bringing research and practical strategies to the community through three upcoming workshops at Kitchener Public Library.
The workshops are part of an ongoing community outreach initiative that gives graduate students opportunities to translate psychological research into accessible, practical information for the public. The sessions also reflect the connection between research and clinical practice that is central to their training.
“These workshops reflect a blend of empirical information and practical clinical application and represent an excellent illustration of knowledge translation that is a competency and area of strength for our profession,” says Dr. Marjory Phillips, director of the Centre for Mental Health Research and Treatment, where students complete their clinical practice.
The upcoming sessions will explore three topics relevant to everyday mental health and well-being.
Media consumption and mental health for older adults
Clinical psychology graduate students Brianna MacPherson and Alexis Cantafio will lead a session for adults aged 50 and older through the library’s Active Adults program. The workshop takes place Wednesday, Oct. 28, at 1 p.m. at Forest Heights Public Library.
Rest assured: Exploring the importance of sleep for well-being
Taranjot Bedi-Padda, Chantelle Castelino and Nadine Ghanem will lead a public workshop exploring sleep and its relationship to well-being.
The session takes place Friday, Nov. 6, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Meeting Room C at Kitchener Public Library’s Central Library, 85 Queen Street North. Registration is required through Kitchener Public Library.
Supporting a loved one with anxiety: Building understanding and learning how to help
Kowsi Aravinthan and Jennifer Fudge will share information to help participants better understand anxiety and learn ways to support someone experiencing it.
The workshop takes place Thursday, Nov. 26, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Meeting Room C at the Central Library. Registration is required through Kitchener Public Library.