Wellness & Recovery College

In this course, students will learn what memory is, how our brains encode, store, and retrieve memories, and the effect that stress, trauma, and addiction can have on those processes. We will additionally explore techniques to improve and boost memory and identify when we should seek help.

Learning Objectives

Module 1: Understanding, Improving & Preserving Cognitive Function

• What is memory?
• Stages of Memory
• Types of Memory

Module 2: Understanding How Stress, Trauma and Addiction Affect Our Memory

• What is stress?
• How Trauma Affects Memory
• The Impact of Addiction on the Brain
• Cognitive Load Theory
• Healthy Ways to Cope

Module 3: Memory Health

• Identify simple habits that improve memory.
• Practice easy memory-boosting techniques.
• Recognize when to seek help for memory concerns.

Beginning Tuesday, April 15, 2025 (4 weeks)
Time: 10:00am – 11:30am
Location: CMHA-WECB

This course is now full. To be added to the waitlist, please email mhp@cmha-wecb.on.ca.

By registering for this class you are agreeing to abide by the Wellness & Recovery College’s Participation Guidelines
Creating a Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive Learning Environment

Confidentiality
We will be respectful of each other’s privacy; we will not share the names or personal experiences of others. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) will break confidentiality only if someone expresses that they are at risk of serious harm to themselves or others; or if a child under the age of 16 is at risk of being harmed.

Diversity and Inclusion
All participants will support an environment that is free from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. We will be open-minded to each other’s journey and experiences.

Reciprocity Within Our Space
Everyone is welcome to speak and share as they are comfortable. Silence is OK and we have the right to ‘pass’ if we would prefer to just listen. When we share, we use “I” statements to share our own wisdom and experiences.

Mutual Respect
We will show respect for each other by creating space for each person to share, side conversations and interruptions are discouraged. We understand that we are the experts in our own lives. This is a learning space meant for exploration of our perspectives, we will be mindful of language such as ‘should’ or ‘need to’.

Self-Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
Reach out to your supports if you should you need them. Every student will be provided with a pamphlet of community resources in Windsor and Essex County. The Peer Support Worker will support students with additional resources if needed. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) are open to feedback about your experiences throughout the course. There will also be opportunities to share feedback in a survey at the end of each course.

Share the Headlines, Not the Details
We will use ‘headlines’ rather than details as it relates to medications, trauma, and substance use. The Peer Support Worker and students can discuss the impact of the experiences that they have been through rather than the details of the experience itself. This may include emotions and feelings.

Substance Use
Wellness & Recovery College supports all recovery, including abstinence and harm reduction. As each student’s journey is different, we must be supportive and respectful of all students. If any students’ behaviour or class materials are triggering, please discuss with the Peer Support Worker privately outside of class. There is to be no substance use on CMHA property, including parking lots, and students are expected to arrive to class not under the influence of any substances.

This course explores the complex relationship between technology, social media, and mental health. It provides a comprehensive understanding of how digital engagement can influence psychological well-being and offers practical strategies for managing technology use in a healthy way. Students will complete a 7-day digital detox and explore its impact.

Learning Objectives

Module 1: The Psychological Impact of Technology & Social Media on Mental Health

• Positive & Negative Impacts of Technology
• Technology Addiction
• Technology & Mental Health

Module 2: Technology Addiction

• Internet Gaming Disorder
• Populations at Higher Risk of Digital Addiction
• The Internet Addiction Test

Module 3: Building a Healthy Relationship with Technology

• Being Intentional with Tech
• Healthy Social Media Sites & Apps
• Digital Detox

Module 4: Digital Detox

• Discussion on how the 7-day digital detox went.

Beginning Tuesday, April 15, 2025 (4 weeks)
Time: 1:00pm – 2:30pm
Location: CMHA-WECB

Click here to register.

By registering for this class you are agreeing to abide by the Wellness & Recovery College’s Participation Guidelines
Creating a Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive Learning Environment

Confidentiality
We will be respectful of each other’s privacy; we will not share the names or personal experiences of others. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) will break confidentiality only if someone expresses that they are at risk of serious harm to themselves or others; or if a child under the age of 16 is at risk of being harmed.

Diversity and Inclusion
All participants will support an environment that is free from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. We will be open-minded to each other’s journey and experiences.

Reciprocity Within Our Space
Everyone is welcome to speak and share as they are comfortable. Silence is OK and we have the right to ‘pass’ if we would prefer to just listen. When we share, we use “I” statements to share our own wisdom and experiences.

Mutual Respect
We will show respect for each other by creating space for each person to share, side conversations and interruptions are discouraged. We understand that we are the experts in our own lives. This is a learning space meant for exploration of our perspectives, we will be mindful of language such as ‘should’ or ‘need to’.

Self-Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
Reach out to your supports if you should you need them. Every student will be provided with a pamphlet of community resources in Windsor and Essex County. The Peer Support Worker will support students with additional resources if needed. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) are open to feedback about your experiences throughout the course. There will also be opportunities to share feedback in a survey at the end of each course.

Share the Headlines, Not the Details
We will use ‘headlines’ rather than details as it relates to medications, trauma, and substance use. The Peer Support Worker and students can discuss the impact of the experiences that they have been through rather than the details of the experience itself. This may include emotions and feelings.

Substance Use
Wellness & Recovery College supports all recovery, including abstinence and harm reduction. As each student’s journey is different, we must be supportive and respectful of all students. If any students’ behaviour or class materials are triggering, please discuss with the Peer Support Worker privately outside of class. There is to be no substance use on CMHA property, including parking lots, and students are expected to arrive to class not under the influence of any substances.

This course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of anxiety, its symptoms, and how it can affect individuals both mentally and physically. Participants will gain insights into the development of anxiety, common myths and facts, and how anxiety disorders manifest. Additionally, the course explores the intricate relationship between anxiety and substance use, offering practical tools and strategies for managing anxiety and improving overall wellness.

Learning Objectives

Module 1: Understanding Anxiety

• What is Anxiety?
• Myths & Facts
• How Can Anxiety Develop?
• Types of Anxiety Disorders

Module 2: Anxiety Symptoms & Diagnosis

• Cognitive and Physical Symptoms of Anxiety
• Fight, Flight Freeze Response
• An Anxiety Diagnosis

Module 3: The Connection Between Anxiety & Substance Use

• Dual Diagnosis / Concurrent Disorder
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
• The Fear Ladder
• Managing Anxiety

Module 4: Coping with Anxiety

• Coping with Anxiety
• Developing a Wellness Plan
• When to Seek Professional Help

Beginning Wednesday, April 16, 2025 (4 weeks)
Time: 10:00am – 11:30am
Location: CMHA-WECB

This course is now full. To be added to the waitlist, please email mhp@cmha-wecb.on.ca.

By registering for this class you are agreeing to abide by the Wellness & Recovery College’s Participation Guidelines
Creating a Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive Learning Environment

Confidentiality
We will be respectful of each other’s privacy; we will not share the names or personal experiences of others. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) will break confidentiality only if someone expresses that they are at risk of serious harm to themselves or others; or if a child under the age of 16 is at risk of being harmed.

Diversity and Inclusion
All participants will support an environment that is free from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. We will be open-minded to each other’s journey and experiences.

Reciprocity Within Our Space
Everyone is welcome to speak and share as they are comfortable. Silence is OK and we have the right to ‘pass’ if we would prefer to just listen. When we share, we use “I” statements to share our own wisdom and experiences.

Mutual Respect
We will show respect for each other by creating space for each person to share, side conversations and interruptions are discouraged. We understand that we are the experts in our own lives. This is a learning space meant for exploration of our perspectives, we will be mindful of language such as ‘should’ or ‘need to’.

Self-Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
Reach out to your supports if you should you need them. Every student will be provided with a pamphlet of community resources in Windsor and Essex County. The Peer Support Worker will support students with additional resources if needed. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) are open to feedback about your experiences throughout the course. There will also be opportunities to share feedback in a survey at the end of each course.

Share the Headlines, Not the Details
We will use ‘headlines’ rather than details as it relates to medications, trauma, and substance use. The Peer Support Worker and students can discuss the impact of the experiences that they have been through rather than the details of the experience itself. This may include emotions and feelings.

Substance Use
Wellness & Recovery College supports all recovery, including abstinence and harm reduction. As each student’s journey is different, we must be supportive and respectful of all students. If any students’ behaviour or class materials are triggering, please discuss with the Peer Support Worker privately outside of class. There is to be no substance use on CMHA property, including parking lots, and students are expected to arrive to class not under the influence of any substances.

In this unique course each week students will decide on a topic or activity. As a student-led course, it will include conversations regarding recovery, addictions, mental health and lived experience. This course provides social interaction in a safe and confidential setting.

Beginning Thursday, April 17, 2025 (4 weeks)
Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Location: CMHA-WECB

This course is now full. To be added to the waitlist, please email mhp@cmha-wecb.on.ca.

By registering for this class you are agreeing to abide by the Wellness & Recovery College’s Participation Guidelines
Creating a Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive Learning Environment

Confidentiality
We will be respectful of each other’s privacy; we will not share the names or personal experiences of others. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) will break confidentiality only if someone expresses that they are at risk of serious harm to themselves or others; or if a child under the age of 16 is at risk of being harmed.

Diversity and Inclusion
All participants will support an environment that is free from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. We will be open-minded to each other’s journey and experiences.

Reciprocity Within Our Space
Everyone is welcome to speak and share as they are comfortable. Silence is OK and we have the right to ‘pass’ if we would prefer to just listen. When we share, we use “I” statements to share our own wisdom and experiences.

Mutual Respect
We will show respect for each other by creating space for each person to share, side conversations and interruptions are discouraged. We understand that we are the experts in our own lives. This is a learning space meant for exploration of our perspectives, we will be mindful of language such as ‘should’ or ‘need to’.

Self-Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
Reach out to your supports if you should you need them. Every student will be provided with a pamphlet of community resources in Windsor and Essex County. The Peer Support Worker will support students with additional resources if needed. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) are open to feedback about your experiences throughout the course. There will also be opportunities to share feedback in a survey at the end of each course.

Share the Headlines, Not the Details
We will use ‘headlines’ rather than details as it relates to medications, trauma, and substance use. The Peer Support Worker and students can discuss the impact of the experiences that they have been through rather than the details of the experience itself. This may include emotions and feelings.

Substance Use
Wellness & Recovery College supports all recovery, including abstinence and harm reduction. As each student’s journey is different, we must be supportive and respectful of all students. If any students’ behaviour or class materials are triggering, please discuss with the Peer Support Worker privately outside of class. There is to be no substance use on CMHA property, including parking lots, and students are expected to arrive to class not under the influence of any substances.

In this course students will learn about a variety of programs and services being offered by other community partners.
April 16 – Brentwood Recovery Home
April 23 – John Howard Society of Windsor-Essex
April 30 – Crossroads: Centre for Personal Empowerment
May 7 – Recovery Education for Addictions & Complex Trauma

Beginning Wednesday, April 16, 2025 (4 weeks)
Time: 1:00pm – 2:30pm
Location: CMHA-WECB

Click here to register.

By registering for this class you are agreeing to abide by the Wellness & Recovery College’s Participation Guidelines
Creating a Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive Learning Environment

Confidentiality
We will be respectful of each other’s privacy; we will not share the names or personal experiences of others. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) will break confidentiality only if someone expresses that they are at risk of serious harm to themselves or others; or if a child under the age of 16 is at risk of being harmed.

Diversity and Inclusion
All participants will support an environment that is free from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. We will be open-minded to each other’s journey and experiences.

Reciprocity Within Our Space
Everyone is welcome to speak and share as they are comfortable. Silence is OK and we have the right to ‘pass’ if we would prefer to just listen. When we share, we use “I” statements to share our own wisdom and experiences.

Mutual Respect
We will show respect for each other by creating space for each person to share, side conversations and interruptions are discouraged. We understand that we are the experts in our own lives. This is a learning space meant for exploration of our perspectives, we will be mindful of language such as ‘should’ or ‘need to’.

Self-Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
Reach out to your supports if you should you need them. Every student will be provided with a pamphlet of community resources in Windsor and Essex County. The Peer Support Worker will support students with additional resources if needed. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) are open to feedback about your experiences throughout the course. There will also be opportunities to share feedback in a survey at the end of each course.

Share the Headlines, Not the Details
We will use ‘headlines’ rather than details as it relates to medications, trauma, and substance use. The Peer Support Worker and students can discuss the impact of the experiences that they have been through rather than the details of the experience itself. This may include emotions and feelings.

Substance Use
Wellness & Recovery College supports all recovery, including abstinence and harm reduction. As each student’s journey is different, we must be supportive and respectful of all students. If any students’ behaviour or class materials are triggering, please discuss with the Peer Support Worker privately outside of class. There is to be no substance use on CMHA property, including parking lots, and students are expected to arrive to class not under the influence of any substances.

This book club course is designed to explore the principles and strategies outlined in Atomic Habits by James Clear. Through guided discussions, practical exercises, and reflection, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how small habits can lead to significant personal and professional transformations.

Students will receive a copy of the book, which should be returned at the end of the course.

Course Objectives:
By the end of this book club course, participants will:

• Understand the science behind habit formation and behaviour change.
• Learn how to break bad habits and build new, effective ones.
• Apply the Four Laws of Behaviour Change to create sustainable habits.
• Develop strategies for overcoming obstacles and staying consistent.
• Implement a personal habit-tracking system for continuous growth.

Beginning Thursday, April 17, 2025 (8 weeks)
Time: 10:00am – 11:30am
Location: CMHA-WECB

Click here to register.

By registering for this class you are agreeing to abide by the Wellness & Recovery College’s Participation Guidelines
Creating a Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive Learning Environment

Confidentiality
We will be respectful of each other’s privacy; we will not share the names or personal experiences of others. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) will break confidentiality only if someone expresses that they are at risk of serious harm to themselves or others; or if a child under the age of 16 is at risk of being harmed.

Diversity and Inclusion
All participants will support an environment that is free from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. We will be open-minded to each other’s journey and experiences.

Reciprocity Within Our Space
Everyone is welcome to speak and share as they are comfortable. Silence is OK and we have the right to ‘pass’ if we would prefer to just listen. When we share, we use “I” statements to share our own wisdom and experiences.

Mutual Respect
We will show respect for each other by creating space for each person to share, side conversations and interruptions are discouraged. We understand that we are the experts in our own lives. This is a learning space meant for exploration of our perspectives, we will be mindful of language such as ‘should’ or ‘need to’.

Self-Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
Reach out to your supports if you should you need them. Every student will be provided with a pamphlet of community resources in Windsor and Essex County. The Peer Support Worker will support students with additional resources if needed. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) are open to feedback about your experiences throughout the course. There will also be opportunities to share feedback in a survey at the end of each course.

Share the Headlines, Not the Details
We will use ‘headlines’ rather than details as it relates to medications, trauma, and substance use. The Peer Support Worker and students can discuss the impact of the experiences that they have been through rather than the details of the experience itself. This may include emotions and feelings.

Substance Use
Wellness & Recovery College supports all recovery, including abstinence and harm reduction. As each student’s journey is different, we must be supportive and respectful of all students. If any students’ behaviour or class materials are triggering, please discuss with the Peer Support Worker privately outside of class. There is to be no substance use on CMHA property, including parking lots, and students are expected to arrive to class not under the influence of any substances.