Struggling with follow-through, focus, or organization? Executive functioning challenges are often the missing link behind these difficulties—and the good news is, these skills can be built. Learn how understanding executive function can transform the way you approach support.

In a world that’s always asking “what’s next?”, it’s easy to miss the beauty of what’s happening right now. This week, we’re exploring how slowing down and embracing the in-between moments can help young people (and all of us!) feel more grounded, connected, and at ease.

Many teens and young adults are now turning to AI chatbots for quick mental health support. While these tools can be helpful in some ways, they aren’t a replacement for the deep, human connection that therapy provides. Here’s what AI chatbots can (and can’t) do for our mental health – and why real relationships still matter most.

In a world of constant stimulation, boredom can feel like a problem to fix — but what if it’s exactly what young minds need? Discover how quiet, unstructured time supports brain development, creativity, and emotional well-being, and why parents shouldn’t fear a little boredom.

Snap Maps might seem like just another social feature, but for many teens, it’s a silent source of stress and anxiety. If your child seems increasingly preoccupied with what others are doing, feels left out, or struggles with social comparison, the pressure of being “always on” might be taking a toll. You're not alone, and there are ways to help.

Vaping among teens continues to rise, and while much of the conversation centres around nicotine addiction and health consequences (rightfully so), there's often a missing piece in the puzzle: why teens start and keep vaping in the first place. For many, vaping isn’t just about peer pressure or rebellion. It’s a coping mechanism, a form of regulation, a pause button.

Anxiety is no longer just a buzzword. It’s a lived reality for far too many teenage girls. If your daughter seems to be withdrawing, constantly worried, overwhelmed by the smallest things, or struggling to manage her emotions, she’s not alone, and neither are you.

We live in a world that constantly tugs at our attention. Notifications buzz. Ads pop up. Endless scrolls pull us deeper. It’s not just annoying—it’s by design. Behind every ding and swipe is a powerful blend of neuroscience, psychology, and technology working together in what's now called the attention economy.

As I wrapped up my last tennis match of the season, I realized how much a great rally resembles a meaningful conversation. In both, the goal isn’t power or dominance—it’s rhythm, connection, and responding with intention. What can tennis teach us about the way we communicate and support each other?

Breathwork involves intentional control of the breath to enhance mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. By regulating the nervous system through conscious breathing, it activates the parasympathetic system, promoting relaxation and stress reduction. This tool improves emotion regulation and enhances awareness of bodily sensations, offering benefits for mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and addictions.

Straight Up Health's 360 Discovery Assessments are the starting point for their unique approach to care. Using a Family-Based Care Model, caregivers collaborate to support their children's well-being. These assessments are personalized evaluations helping determine the best pathway for clients, providing tailored treatment plans for families and individuals.

Proper hydration is crucial for our well-being, going beyond just quenching thirst. This article explores the significant benefits of staying hydrated and offers practical tips to make it a seamless part of your daily routine.

EMDR therapy has its benefits, but it's different from traditional talk therapy, causing some concerns. In this blog, therapist Susan Tang addresses common fears about EMDR to help you make an informed decision about whether it's the right fit for you.

As summer approaches, it's a big moment for high school graduates. Going from Grade 12 to what comes next can be both exciting and stressful. This blog is here to help you manage that stress with some useful tips.

As humans, we all crave closeness to survive. Our first relationships, especially in our early years, play a crucial role in shaping how we connect with others and see ourselves. If these early connections provide safety, trust, love, and warmth, we're likely to have better health later in life. However, if these early relationships lack these essential elements, it can lead to a sense of disconnection from ourselves and others, contributing to poorer health outcomes as we age.

Did you know we are now offering Occupational Therapy here at Straight Up Health? With such exciting news, we asked our Occupational Therapist, Rose, some questions about what exactly is Occupational Therapy and how it differentiates from other kinds of therapy. Keep reading to find out!

In last months Blog Post, “What is ADHD, anyway?” we learned what ADHD is. Now that we know what it is, how can we learn to manage with it and help our children and friends who are struggling?

You may be wondering... what is ADHD?

ADHD is a brain-based condition caused by a lack of certain chemicals (ex., norepinephrine) commonly affecting areas of the brain that control attention, social judgment, and executive functioning.

ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopment (neuro = meaning brain, developmental = meaning growing up) disorders in childhood, so it is no surprise that many people are wondering if they have it.

Holiday season is upon us!

For some, the holidays evoke feelings of joy, for others, dread maybe a more accurate description of the feelings associated with this time of year. Regardless of if or what you celebrate, this time of year typically comes with expectations, pressure, and challenges aplenty.

Learning about BIPOC/IBPOC issues is great, but doing something about these issues is even better! Show up for BIPOC/IBPOC communities in authentic ways! Be it on a micro or macro level, get involved in antiracism initiatives. Spread awareness, confront racism in your daily life, get involved in community organizing initiatives, or intentionally support BIPOC/IBPOC-owned businesses! Small actions can go a long way!