Shalem Mental Health Network

10/06/2025

Every relationship involves power, and how we use it makes all the difference. Power can strengthen and empower, or it can control and harm. In our closest relationships, we may approach power as power-over (control), power-with (collaboration), or sometimes by neglecting it altogether. When imbalances grow too strong, they risk becoming harmful or even abusive.

In our latest Mental Health Matters, we explore how to navigate power wisely and what it looks like to build healthier, safer connections. Read the full article here: https://shalemnetwork.org/power-in-relationships-controlling-or-empowering/

10/01/2025

We're so grateful to everyone who joined us at the Battle of the Brushes last weekend! 120 people came together for a wonderful night of art in support of youth arts programming and mental health. The 15 artists amazed us with their creativity, and the energy in the room was something special! A huge thank you to the talented artists who participated and painted live. To Alexa Dunham, Lucid Palette, Baśka Szóstak, Corrina DiLella Cameron, David Donkin, PS aka Please Stop, Elena Tags, Guy Parrotta, Jasmyne Smith, Katie Gorrie, Angels Antidote, empty_jug, Phil Irish, Tonya Burke, and artbytye - thank you!

We're also deeply grateful to our sponsors for making the night happen: Revive Physio, Dr. Rocca Dentistry, Invizij, PV&V, Jackson Square, and Heartwood Cidery.

09/28/2025

Trigger warning: This post discusses su***de.

Experiencing overwhelming thoughts, feelings of hopelessness, or isolation can be incredibly difficult. You are not alone, and it is okay to seek support.

Click through to understand common warning signs, how to support someone in need, and ways to find hope even in challenging moments.

For a deeper look at these issues and guidance on how to help, read our full article here: https://shalemnetwork.org/su***de-lets-talk-about-it/

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of su***de, professional help is available:
📞 Canada Su***de Prevention Service: 988
📞 Shalem Counselling Centre: 1-866-347-0041

Reaching out can be the first step toward support and healing.

09/23/2025

Have you ever seen a painting come to life in real time? Here’s your chance. Get your tickets here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/battle-of-the-brushes-2

At Battle of the Brushes, 15 incredible artists (pictured below) will be creating live before your eyes, and you’ll have the chance to take one of their pieces home, with auctions starting at just $75!

Join us for an unforgettable night of art, music, food, and community:
📅: Saturday, September 27
📍: The Bridgeworks Hamilton

09/17/2025

A Shalem In-Service to remember!

Our team spent the day away from the office, connecting as colleagues and engaging in meaningful learning and team-building activities. Together, we explored our Enneagram types, deepened our understanding of one another, and strengthened our bonds through collaborative exercises, including a chair-building competition! We return refreshed and renewed, ready to continue serving you and our community with care and commitment.

A big thank you to Crieff Hills Retreat Centre for hosting us and providing a delicious lunch.

09/15/2025

🎤 We’re just weeks away from Battle of the Brushes! 🎤

Here’s what’s in store ⬇️

Your hosts Megan Divecha & Ktriggs will keep the energy high, while DJ Gigizan brings the beats!

22 one-of-a-kind artworks up for auction, starting at just $75!

Artist & Tatto Artist Chris Hall will be doing flash (temp) tattoos + Edie Burns will snapping polaroids.

Food vendors include: Fondry Ice Cream and WingtasticWingz. Bridgeworks will be offering up a great bar that includes mocktails!

It’s a night of art, music, food, and fun. All in support of youth arts programming RE-create Art Studio

Don’t miss it! 🔥

Huge thanks to our sponsors: Dr. Rocca Dentistry, Revive Physiotherapy, Jackson Square Invizij Architects Heartwood Farm & Cidery and PV&V Insurance Centre Ltd

Join us for the 6th Annual Battle of the Brushes — a high-energy, live painting showdown featuring 15 local artists going brush-to-brush in two thrilling rounds. Watch masterpieces come to life in real-time, enjoy the DJ, the community, and bid on one-of-a-kind art; all in support of youth arts pr...

09/10/2025

Warning: this post discusses su***de.

The uncomfortable reality is that these deep struggles are happening all the time in our communities. These communities are at an increased risk. Be sure to check in with your community to offer hope.

Check out our full article this month on how to talk about su***de with your loved ones: https://shalemnetwork.org/su***de-lets-talk-about-it/

If you are in crisis, call or text 9-8-8, Su***de Crisis Helpline

09/10/2025

Warning: this post discusses su***de.

Today is World Su***de Prevention Day. Our Mental Health Matters article for September talks about su***de and how to support loved ones with suicidal thoughts.

Read the full article here: https://shalemnetwork.org/su***de-lets-talk-about-it/

***depreventionday

08/20/2025

Tom Jantzi and Anne Martin from Shalem will be presenting a four week series with New Leaf Network on Supporting Mental Wellbeing in Church and Ministry.

Check out the details and how to participate below.

This September, our Learning Centre returns with a timely and important focus: Flourishing on Mission - Supporting Mental Wellbeing in Church and Ministry. Presented in partnership with Shalem Mental Health Network

Are you unsure how to talk about mental health in your Church and Ministry context? When anxiety, depression, or emotional struggles affect your church or team, do you feel prepared to respond with care and confidence? What role does mental wellbeing play in helping your faith community truly flourish?

In this month long Learning Centre series we will discuss the “What?”, “Why?”, and "How?” of understanding and cultivating mental wellbeing in Church and Ministry. We will explore together some practical, proven strategies for supporting mental wellbeing, not just reactively but proactively, to invest in a flourishing community. By the end of this four-part series, you’ll gain a clearer vision of what flourishing mental wellbeing looks like in Church and in Ministry—and walk away with practical tools to help you cultivate it with confidence and care.

You’ll learn from experienced presenters, Tom Jantzi and Anne Martin, on topics such as:

▪️Understanding and defining mental well-being in a Canadian church context (Sept 11)

▪️Practical strategies and tools for supporting mental health (Sept 18)

▪️Building relational wellbeing through circle processes (Sept 25)

▪️Effective decision-making using Fair Process to strengthen community (Oct 2)

📅 Thursdays, Sept 11, 18, 25 & Oct 2
🕐 1:30 PM ET — Online (Sessions recorded for later viewing)

Whether you’re a pastor, ministry leader, volunteer, or simply someone who cares deeply about the health of your church, this series will help you respond with both care and confidence when mental health challenges arise — and even more importantly, will equip you to cultivate flourishing proactively.

👉 Learn more & register here: https://www.newleafnetwork.ca/events/flourishingonmission

08/15/2025

We’re thrilled to announce the talented artists stepping up to the easel for this year’s Battle of the Brushes! These incredible artists will bring their vision, passion, and skill to life right before your eyes in a live art showdown - all in support of RE-create Art Studio!

Participating Artists include: Alexa Dunham, Lucid Palette, Baśka Szóstak, Corrina DiLella Cameron, David Donkin, PS aka Please Stop, Elena Tags, Guy Parrotta, Jasmyne Smith, Katie Gorrie, Angels Antidote, empty_jug, Phil Irish, Tonya Burke and Art by Tye.

📅 Date: Saturday, Sept 27
📍 Location:
🎟️ Tickets: $32 inc. taxes - use code RECREATE2025 for 15% off

https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/battle-of-the-brushes-2

Come cheer them on and watch masterpieces unfold! All art will be auctioned off in support of RE-create!

08/13/2025

Sabbath practices are a sacred git inviting each of us to step away from the marketplace to simply be human, to be ourselves outside of the roles which can demand so much of us, as good as those given roles or callings may be.

May you find practices that allow you to be human.

Read the full article here:
https://shalemnetwork.org/the-power-of-sabbath-rest-considering-the-benefits-of-this-ancient-practice/

08/07/2025

Did you know Shalem offers in person appointments in Barrie?
We've been here for over a year, but now it's on the sign, so it's official!

You can meet with Tom Jantzi at 60 Collier St, it's right next to City Hall in Barrie.