Skip to content

Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

As the days shorten and the weather turns colder, Seasonal Affective Disorder can become more prevalent for many.

bare winter tree with Connective logo

As the days shorten and the weather turns colder, many people experience changes in mood and energy. For some, these changes can be more than just seasonal blues—they may be indicative of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). The following information will enhance understanding of SAD and explore support for those affected or for those who know someone impacted by it.

 

2-3% of Canadians experience SAD. 15% of Canadians experience mild SAD. 10% of all depression cases are linked to SAD.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that typically arises during the fall and winter months when daylight is limited. However, SAD can become present at any time of the year. Symptoms of SAD can include: 

  • Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness 
  • Low energy and fatigue 
  • Changes in sleep patterns 
  • Changes in appetite or weight 
  • Difficulty concentrating 
  • Withdrawal from social situations  

Who is at Risk of Experiencing SAD?

Seasonal Affective Disorder can impact anyone, however, there are some groups of people more likely to be affected by SAD. 

  • Adults are at higher risk of experiencing SAD in comparison to youth. 
  • Any family history where SAD or depression is prevalent can increase the risk of experiencing symptoms (Amirault, 2018).  
  • Women are 9 times more likely to be diagnosed with SAD than men (CHMA, 2013). 
  • Northern countries and cities that experience less sunlight during winter months can increase the risk of being affected by SAD. 

Effective Strategies for Managing SAD

To help manage SAD and improve well-being, there are a few strategies that can support those affected: 

  • Light Therapy: Using a light therapy lamp can simulate natural sunlight and help regulate mood. These lamps are a common treatment for SAD. 
  • Vitamin D: Reduced sunlight can lead to lower vitamin D levels, so taking a supplement might be beneficial (Lincoln, 2024). 
  • Physical Activity and Good Nutrition: Regular exercise and healthy eating can boost mood and energy levels, which can help alleviate symptoms of SAD. Research suggests that a variety of types of physical activity, particularly done in community spaces, can help reduce the feeling of isolation (Drew et al, 2021). 
  • Counseling: Speaking with a mental health professional can provide personalized support and coping strategies. 

Reach Out for Support

While Connective does not provide direct treatment for SAD, we are here to support you in accessing the resources you need: 

  • Community Services Offices (CSO): Our CSOs in Vancouver and Abbotsford play a vital role in supporting individuals who face multiple barriers to accessing mainstream resources. We offer arts programming, game groups, and other social opportunities to foster a sense of community and reduce isolation.  
  • 405 Alexander: At 405 Alexander, we have proudly served 194,108 meals through Connective’s Whitehorse Emergency Shelter. Good nutrition plays a vital role in mental health, especially during seasons that can affect mood, such as winter. In partnership with the Council of Yukon First Nations, we also provide cultural support and programming that fosters community connection and resilience for our Indigenous residents.  

If you are looking for these services in another location in BC or the Yukon, please contact us to connect with a Connective partner in your community. 

Immediate Resources for Support

If you or someone you know is struggling with SAD, it’s important to seek support. Here are some immediate resources that can help: 

  • 9-8-8: Provides access to immediate support and crisis intervention. 
  • Hope for Wellness: Offers counseling and crisis support specifically for Indigenous peoples. 

References

  1. Amirault, S. (2020, December 31). “Psychology works” fact sheet: Seasonal affective disorder (depression with seasonal pattern) – canadian psychological association. Canadian Psychological Association – The national voice for psychology in Canada. https://cpa.ca/psychology-works-fact-sheet-seasonal-affective-disorder-depression-with-seasonal-pattern/
  2. Drew, E. M., Hanson, B. L., & Huo, K. (2021). Seasonal affective disorder and engagement in physical activities among adults in Alaska. International Journal of Circumpolar Health, 80(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/22423982.2021.1906058
  3. Lincoln, K. (2024). S.A.D. survival kit: A podcast on Seasonal affective disorder. Western CEDAR. https://cedar.wwu.edu/wwu_honors/782/?utm_source=cedar.wwu.edu%2Fwwu_honors%2F782&utm_medium=PDF&utm_campaign=PDFCoverPages
  4. “Psychology works” fact sheet: Seasonal affective disorder (depression with seasonal pattern) – Canadian Psychological Association. Canadian Psychological Association – The national voice for psychology in Canada. (2020, December 31). https://cpa.ca/psychology-works-fact-sheet-seasonal-affective-disorder-depression-with-seasonal-pattern/
  5. seasonal affective disorder Canada

A New Program in Prince George – Juniper House

Offering safe, secure housing and wraparound supports to 14 adults with dementia or acquired brain injuries

Older woman washing dishes.

Connective is proud to announce the launch of a new program in Prince George – Juniper House Long-Term Care. One of several Connective programs opening in PG this year, we are honoured to provide this service and continue responding to the needs of our growing community.

 

Map of BC and Yukon, with a pin located on Prince George BC.

Introducing: Juniper House

Juniper House is a licensed care program that will provide a safe and supportive home for adults and seniors living with dementia or acquired brain injuries (ABI). Located at 1777 Yew Street, this 14-unit facility offers 24/7 wraparound support tailored to the unique needs and goals of each resident. https://connective.ca/region/northern-bc/

 

Set to begin welcoming its first residents this month, the program offers individuals who have been referred by Northern Health the opportunity to live more independently within the community, while having their care needs met. Residents will benefit from nutritious meals, individualized case planning, and access to a wide range of community resources to support their well-being.

“Juniper House hopes to significantly enhance the quality of life for its service users by providing tailored, compassionate care that addresses their unique needs. Staff are excited to help foster a sense of dignity and independence among residents, even as they navigate complex health challenges. For families, we hope to offer the peace of mind that comes with knowing their loved ones are in a supportive and professional environment.”

– Tim, Senior Manager

A New Chapter at 1777 Yew Street

After several months of thoughtful renovations, the former senior’s lodge is ready for its new life as a community care facility. Connective’s partnership with Northern Health has ensured the program is designed to meet the needs of those living with dementia and acquired brain injuries. The facility features individualized units, shared bathrooms and common spaces, along with an inviting outdoor and garden space for residents to enjoy.

 

Garden, common spaces, and private suite at Juniper House.

 

The building’s use as a licensed care facility aligns with its preestablished purpose and fits into the existing neighbourhood dynamic, while allowing us to repurpose an unutilized space to respond to the housing crisis and alleviate pressure on hospitals and other clinical facilities.

 

This program’s location also provides residents with easy access to local infrastructure – including healthcare, transit networks, shops, public spaces, and other amenities – allowing them to feel included in community.

 

10 of the building’s units will be dedicated to seniors with dementia, and four for adults with ABI. seniors housing prince george bc

“The program has been designed to encourage social interaction and meaningful engagement through group activities, social events, and personalized care. Together with family involvement, we hope to maintain and even strengthen the social bonds that are crucial for residents’ emotional and mental health.”

– Tim, Senior Manager

A New Resource for Prince George

The housing crisis has had detrimental effects on everyone’s well-being, but especially on those who are also dealing with overlapping challenges – such as those struggling with dementia and in need of long-term care facilities, or those living with acquired brain injuries. This is true across the province, and Prince George is no different.

“Juniper House will play a role in addressing the growing needs of an aging population and individuals requiring specialized care in Prince George. The facility will also enhance community health infrastructure by providing employment opportunities and fostering a welcoming, diverse community. By offering all of this locally, Juniper House will help keep families united and preserve its residents’ sense of belonging.”

– Tim, Senior Manager

Connective has been actively delivering services in Prince George for the last several years. Our team of over 100 local staff are excited to expand our growing range of programs and services with the addition of Juniper House, and to get to know our new neighbours at this location.

Why ‘Juniper’?

The program’s name references the evergreen shrub. With a distinct woody and fragrant smell, juniper is a resilient plant that can make it through even the harshest growing conditions. As a staple for birds and mammals during tough winter months, they are often associated with hope.

“We hope to see the facility becoming an integral part of the community, offering new opportunities for engagement, connection, and support among residents, staff, and the broader community.”

 

In addition to this program, we are honoured to operate the supportive housing programs at 160 Ontario Street and 1550 Victoria Street, the ACES employment program, and a range of community outreach and support initiatives.

Looking Ahead

Over the next few weeks, Juniper House will begin welcoming its first residents, with the goal of having the program fully occupied and operating by mid-November.

 

Staff are looking forward to settling into a sense of daily routine, and beginning to see positive impacts on the lives of service users and their families.

 

For those who are interested in admission to Juniper House:

 

Admission Criteria

Individuals must either:

  • Be living with dementia and eligible for long term care services or
  • Be living with an acquired brain injury

 

Beyond these requirements, residents are selected for this program through the Northern Health Authority’s referral process.

 

To engage with this process, we recommend contacting the Home Health / Community Services office nearest you.

 

You can also find more information – including eligibility requirements and referral, application, and assessment processes – by visiting Northern Health’s Accessing Services page.

The Importance of Language

During Indigenous History Month, we’ve been reflecting on how we speak about Indigenous people, reconciliation, and colonialism.

At Connective, the language and words we use matter. When communicating about people in our communities, we always strive to uphold the principles of dignity, respect, compassion, and accountability.

 

During Indigenous History Month, we’ve been reflecting on how we speak about Indigenous people, reconciliation, and colonialism. Recognizing the weight and value that language holds, we are committed to demonstrating respect for Indigenous communities by understanding the terms we use and ensuring we communicate in culturally appropriate ways.

Evolving Language

Over the years different terms have been used when speaking about or referring to Indigenous people. Several of these, however, have underlying connotations that can be hurtful and harmful. Words are also continuously being updated and improved, and it’s important to stay on top of these trends.

 

For example, a few years ago many people used to the word ‘Aboriginal.’ In more recent years, that term has mostly been replaced with ‘Indigenous’, for three reasons:

 

  1. The term ‘Aboriginal’ was historically used in the context of government – due to the harm the Canadian government caused First Nations, many have decided distance themselves from this term, preferring to use ‘Indigenous’ in its place.
  2. The Latin prefix “ab” means “away from” or “not.” ‘Aboriginal,’ therefore, technically means “not from here” – the opposite of inclusivity, and a complete mischaracterization of Indigenous people’s relationship to this land.
  3. When used in a global context, it creates a more united collaboration among Indigenous communities.

What does ‘Indigenous’ mean?

Indigenous is an umbrella term that refers to multiple groups of people, and can be used when the title of someone’s Nation is unknown. In Canada, there are three distinct groups of Indigenous people: First Nations, Metis, and Inuit.

 

It is important to capitalize the “I” in Indigenous, as a way of showing respect and recognizing the significance of Indigenous identities and cultures.

 

We encourage our non-Indigenous community members to do their research when communicating about Indigenous people, to ensure the correct use of terminology.

 

Here are some resources we recommend:

 

Preserving Indigenous Languages

Indigenous languages are rooted in oral teaching – meaning stories, ideas, and other cultural materials are presented, received, and transmitted through voice, rather than through writing.

 

When a language is lost, so too are the stories and histories that live within it. Due to colonization and the attempted assimilation of Indigenous communities, many Indigenous languages have been lost, and many others are vulnerable, endangered, and at risk. According to the United Nations, one Indigenous language dies every two weeks.  It’s important that we are aware of this issue, and work to preserve and protect endangered Indigenous languages.

 

To learn more about the assimilation of languages, here are a few resources:

 

 

One way people can get more involved with Indigenous language is by learning some Indigenous words. A great way to do this is by visiting a local art gallery or museum focusing on Indigenous history.

 

Other sources of language are books written in various Indigenous languages. You can find these at public libraries and bookstores.

 

Here are some places to start:

 

 

Some Nations also have websites with resources about their respective languages, such as parts of the Yukon (https://ynlc.ca/).

As an Indigenous-serving organization, recognition of Indigenous languages and the ways we talk to and about people are inseparable from our work and our ongoing journey of Reconciliation.

 

To learn more about Indigenous History Month and how Connective is recognizing this month, please visit:

 

https://connective.ca/blog/recognizing-indigenous-history-month-2024/

Announcing a New Program in Dawson Creek

Offering safe, secure housing and wraparound supports to 32 adults at risk of or experiencing homelessness

Exterior view of My Home Place building in Dawson Creek

Connective is proud to announce a new (to us) program in Dawson Creek, British Columbia – our first in the community.

Map of BC and Yukon, with a pin pointing to Dawson Creek, BC. Late last year, we were selected by BC Housing to assume operation of My Home Place, a supportive housing program. Since May 2021, this program has been offering 32 adults who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness a permanent home and access to 24/7 support services, such as meal programs, life and employment skills training, and health and wellness resources. As with Connective’s other supportive housing programs, here, staff work with residents to help them overcome barriers and achieve their self-identified goals. 

 

We worked closely with the program’s previous operator, the South Peace Community Resources Society (SPCRS), to transition the program and took full operation in late 2023. We look forward to continuing to work alongside SPCRS in the community and to building on the strong foundations they have established at My Home Place. On the ground in Dawson Creek, we were excited to welcome a number of new staff to our Connective team.

 

For the last several years we have been proud to operate a growing number of programs in Northern BC – we are grateful for this latest opportunity, and for the chance to leverage our expertise in service to Dawson Creek, while continuing to provide this essential service in the community.

My Home Place

Offering safe, secure housing and wraparound supports to 32 adults at risk of or experiencing homelessness

Exterior view of My Home Place building in Dawson Creek
kitchenette with a table and chairs
Private room with a bed and nightstand.
Shared kitchen space.
Accessible shower.
Industrial kitchen.
Laundry room.
staff office with a desk and 3 chairs.
front office space with group of chairs.
community space with 8 tables and 32 chairs.

An Interview with our Program Manager

To help get to know our new program in Dawson Creek we sat down with its Program Manager, to ask a few questions.

 

What impact do you witness this program having on residents?

My Home Place has proven to have a profoundly positive impact on the residents by offering stability, security, and support to them. Initially, some residents encountered challenges during the first few months of moving in, struggling to adjust to their new homes. By the third month of moving in, I saw significant positive transformation as they stabilized and settle into their homes, and into the supportive environment. Many of our residents, who previously struggled to maintain their housing in the community, have since lived here for a year, two years, and even longer.

 

What does a typical day at the program look like?

The structure of a typical day at My Home Place is generally flexible, catering to the individual needs of residents who plan their schedules. Residents have the autonomy to reach out to staff for support and assistance with various requests. On-site support and in-person services are readily available, with occasional community agency partnerships for educational sessions and training. Two nutritious meals (lunch and supper) are provided, and assistance is offered for scheduling appointments, medication reminders, job searches, skill development, and referrals to external agencies. As part of building community engagement, residents are encouraged to participate in group activities, recreational events, and creative pursuits like arts and crafts. The daily presence of the Intensive Case Management Team (ICMT) ensures regular mental health check-ins and support for their clients who live at My home Place. With 24-hour staffing support, the focus remains on providing holistic support to promote stability and well-being.

“My Home Place aims to create an environment where residents feel empowered and supported in their journey towards independence and improved quality of life.”

– Program Manager, My Home Place

What is your favourite part of working with the program?

My favorite part of working at My Home Place is the fulfilment that I have knowing that I am making a positive impact and difference in the lives of our residents that we support and helping them achieve stability. In the almost 3 years that I have worked at My Home Place, I have developed meaningful connections with the residents, and I have witnessed their progress and positive transformation over time, and this has been rewarding. Building a sense of community and trust is also an important part of the work. Most importantly, the staff team at My Home Place have been a great source of encouragement and support to the program, as we all share a commitment to helping our residents and have created a supportive and fulfilling work environment. I believe that the teamwork we have built over the years has been a key factor in the success of the program.

We’re excited to see My Home Place continue to develop over the years to come, and to better get to know the community in Dawson Creek!

Sharing Our 2022-23 Annual Report

Our 2022-23 Annual Report is a powerful testament to the ways we’ve continued to grow as an organization and evolve as essential service providers

Green landscape with small rive and dense forest.

While no report could ever fully capture the countless ways we’ve continued to grow as an organization and evolve as essential service providers, every line, statistic, and story within represents an important piece of Connective’s story – the impacts we’ve had on the lives of our service users, and the ways they’ve contributed to our vision of a safe, healthy, and inclusive community for all.

 

While we invite everyone to read the complete report, we wanted to share a few highlights.

Our Year in Numbers

Data of people served, staff working towards Connectives vision, housing units, programs supporting our communities in BC and the Yukon.

Hair and Makeup Artistry Certifications

5 women sitting in a hair salon with manuals.

 

Thanks to YESS funding from Employment and Social Development Canada, Connective Kamloops’ employment team supported a number of youths to complete Hair and Makeup Artistry Programs through the Cassidy Wyatt Artistry Collective (CWAC).

 

The first cohort of students completed programming in winter 2023, to great success – every student passed the course, and eight of them were awarded an ‘Excellence in Artistry’, recognizing them for all their hard work.

 

In addition to funding course costs, Connective also supported participants with grocery stipends, day care funding, gas subsidies to cover travel to and from the program, and rent assistance so that students could focus on their studies.

 

 

one woman putting eye shadow on another woman.

“The CWAC Hair and Makeup courses have been life changing. Before taking the courses, I had passion for beauty but lacked the knowledge and skills to turn that passion into a career. I am so grateful…Without this, I never would have had the knowledge and skills to land the dream job I just got offered!”

– Kiana

Kitchen area and living room area.

Expanding Opportunities in Whitehorse

In February of 2023, we were thrilled to announce our fifth program in Whitehorse – a supervised housing and reintegration program for up to six women on conditional release from institutions, giving them the opportunity to return home to an environment that is safe and supportive.

A women wearing a gradation cap.

Peter Allik-Petersenn Educational Bursary Winner

“I was incredibly grateful to be chosen as this generous bursary from Connective helped me to cover the costs of my final semester at Thompson Rivers University. It was not an easy decision for me to return to school as a mature student with a family, including three children who depend on me. It was a very challenging two years, but I am proud to share that I have now earned my Bachelor of Social Work degree.” – Karen L (She/Her)

Decorative vase with paper flowers.

Therapeutic Expression Through Art

“Art therapy is cool because it’s a lot less daunting than traditional talk therapy; because it’s visual, and not as cognitive, it’s more palatable for a lot of people,” says Rebekah. For service users who might be hesitant to seek counselling through traditional means, it can be incredibly powerful.” – Rebekah, Adler University

A Path to Independent Living – Ty’s Story

Ty first came to Rosstown Housing from the Forensic Psychiatric Hospital, after spending several years there. At Rosstown, Ty was able to work closely with staff and found a new outlook on life. His willingness to engage with the Forensic Treatment Team increased, and he developed a personal desire to remain clean from substances and create a more holistically enriched living experience.

 

After a year at Rosstown, Ty was ready to live on his own. Access to a housing subsidy helped bring this long-term goal to fruition, and with the support and encouragement of staff, he was even able to adopt two cats – Puzzle and Jenga – whom he cares for a great deal.

 

“My two cats are great to have around.”

 

two cats lying apart.

Advancing Truth & Reconciliation – Connective’s Indigenous Advisory Committee

As part of Connective’s commitment to truth & reconciliation with Indigenous people in Canada, we recognize that it is our duty – as individuals, as an organization, and as a community – to engage with our true history through a process of ongoing learning and unlearning, and to take an active role in decolonization.

 

The road to reconciliation is a long one, with many steps along the way – it’s with this in mind that we were so pleased to form our Indigenous Advisory Committee this past year.

open laptop in a video call with numerous people. A house plant nearby.

 

Complementing our Board of Director’s own knowledge and experience, the committee brings unique perspectives on the history and impacts of colonization, in addition to being experts and leaders in their field.

 

Together, they will provide critical and historical input to guide and support our Board as they plan activities or develop policies and procedures that impact Indigenous service users and communities.

“This has been an exciting year of Connective’s response to advancing the Truth and Reconciliation recommendations throughout the entire organization. The creation/implementation of the Indigenous Advisory Committee has brought together a diverse view of Indigenous perspectives that are shared in Connective’s delivery of programs and services, developing and revising policies, as well as advancing relationships and partnerships with other organizations in order to help Connective better meet the needs of those whom we serve.”

– Mavis Boucher, Connective Board Member

There’s much more to dive into in our full Annual Report. Click below to learn more!