Personal Mental Health during the COVID-19 Crisis with Cleveland Clinic (March 27, 2020)

With the onset of lock down measures and the negative effects on the economy and our basic way of life, the COVID-19 crisis is having a significant impact on mental health. In this session, Amy Deacon will cover personal mental health and dealing with the anxiety and depression of isolation and uncertainty. What can we all do to deal with this transition in a healthy way? Discussion of tools, activities and tips to help you, your family and organization.

Amy speaks to us on the following topics:

• Personal mental health
• The risks of burnout
• Tips and tools on maintaining good mental health through the pandemic

Amy Deacon, Registered Social Worker, Cleveland Clinic Canada

Amy Deacon is a Registered Social Worker at Cleveland Clinic Canada. Ms. Deacon has a decade of experience providing individual and group counseling as it relates to trauma and mental health. Ms. Deacon describes her counselling practice as one rooted in empowerment, as she works closely with individuals to build a life they find rewarding and meaningful. She is an advocate of “making purpose out of pain,” as it strengthens both resilience as well as compassion.

Ms. Deacon obtained a certificate in Life Coaching from Seneca College before going on to complete her Bachelor of Arts from York University, and finally her Masters in Social Work from the University of Toronto. She has since gone on to complete training in a wide variety of areas, including cognitive behavioural therapy, clinical traumatology, suicide intervention, harm reduction and life skills. In her treatments she incorporates motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and brief solution-focused therapy.

A big believer in giving back to her community, Ms. Deacon has been involved with numerous charities. She acted as a volunteer for Pathways to Education: Lawrence Heights, where she provided academic and personal support to youth in the Lawrence Heights community. She has also volunteered with All Saints Church, COSTI Immigrant Services and 40 Oaks drop-in centre for individuals living in poverty.

When she’s not seeing patients, Ms. Deacon loves to spend time with her husband and two young daughters. She also enjoys running, hiking and being outdoors.