Dr Debra Konyk

06/06/2025

As we watch our Edmonton Oilers battle for hockey's ultimate prize, we're witnessing more than just physical skill, we're seeing mental toughness in action.
Every championship team knows that the difference between good and GREAT happens in the mind:

> Staying composed under playoff pressure
> Bouncing back after a tough loss
> Maintaining focus through fatigue
> Believing when the odds are against you

Whether you're chasing a Stanley Cup, training for your next marathon, or pushing toward any athletic goal, your mental game is your secret weapon.

As someone who's crossed marathon finish lines and faced the wall at the Death Race, I understand that championships aren't just won with talent. They're won with mental resilience, unwavering focus, and the ability to perform when it matters most.

Ready to develop your championship mindset?
🧠💪 I'm excited to announce that I'm now offering specialized Sports Psychology services to help athletes at all levels unlock their full potential.
👉 Learn more about how sports psychology can elevate your game: https://www.drdebrakonyk.com/sports-psychology-edmonton

Let's go Oilers! And let's go YOU, your championship moment is waiting! 🏃‍♀️🏋️‍♂️⛷️

Unlock peak athletic performance with sports psychology from Dr. Debra Konyk, PhD psychologist & marathon runner. Mental training for athletes in Edmonton.

12/02/2020

Dr Williamson shares her observations on strong relationships enduring tough times.

04/30/2020

Psychology Today contributor, Dr. Wittman Ph.D., shares strategies for coping with boredom during social isolation.

How to cope with social isolation and 'empty time' during the pandemic.

11/05/2018

Dr White shares a curious perspective on the notion of happiness.

New study finds that ideal levels of happiness are not the same everywhere.

02/27/2018

As a lifelong proponent of physical health and activity I enjoy seeing the best athletes strive for success on the world stage. Toni Bernard shares insightful lessons from the Winter Olympics on living well.

The Olympics provided valuable lessons on living well.

09/14/2017

We all enjoy the companionship of our pets and the health benefits pet ownership offers. Dr Coren highlights the impact that companionship can have on a good night's sleep.

A new study offers guidance on the choice to snuggle up with a favorite canine.

05/24/2017

The stress hormone cortisol puts your mental and physical health at risk. Christopher Bergland offers 5 simple ways to lower your cortisol levels.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-way/201301/cortisol-why-the-stress-hormone-is-public-enemy-no-1

5 simple ways to lower your cortisol levels without drugs

01/16/2017

If is casting a shadow on your day Professor Bernhard offers 6 ideas to help.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/turning-straw-gold/201201/six-strategies-coping-the-blues?collection=113040

From getting out in nature, to reaching out to others, how to weather the blues.

01/10/2017

The Psychologists' Association of Alberta mission is to advance the science-based profession of psychology and to promote the well-being and potential of all Albertans.

12/27/2016

Dr Nemko suggests a brief self-inventory to reflect on the successes and challenges of 2016 is helpful looking forward to 2017.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/how-do-life/201612/inventorying-your-2016

Reviewing your 2016 can set the stage for a good 2017.

11/22/2016

Dr Markman gives us some advice on making sense of odd behaviours.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/ulterior-motives/201611/how-do-people-explain-puzzling-behaviors

Do people think strange behaviors reflect personality traits?

09/21/2016

Did you know Edmontonians receive approximately 9 less hours of daylight in December compared to June? Take steps to proactively manage the impact of seasonal affective disorder.

According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, weather often affects people’s moods. Sunlight breaking through clouds can lift our spirits, while a dull, rainy day may make us feel a little gloomy. Read more here:

http://ontario.cmha.ca/mental_health/seasonal-affective-disorder-sad/

A mild form of SAD, often referred to as the “winter blues,” causes discomfort, but is not incapacitating. However, the term “winter blues” can be misleading; some people have a rarer form of SAD which is summer depression. This condition … Continue reading →