September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day, and this year’s theme is, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” which asks us to do something simple but powerful: start the conversation. That invitation matters in disorder recovery, too.

Have you ever noticed that when you've skipped meals, gone hours without eating, or haven't been nourishing yourself well, your anxiety feels worse?

In this edition of “Meet the Westwind Staff,” we get to know Lokadia Sims. Lokadia has been with us for just over a year now. She is a Registered Clinical Counsellor who is passionate about supporting individuals with eating disorder recovery.

Stigma keeps people stuck and prevents those struggling with disordered eating behaviours from reaching out for support.

From May 4-10th, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is inviting people across the country to embrace the 2026 theme: “Come Together, Canada”. This year’s message, Stronger connections. Better mental health, highlights the powerful role that social connection plays in overall well-being, and it resonates deeply within the context of eating disorder recovery.

In this edition of “Meet the Westwind Staff,” we get to know Toni Vandenbrink, one of our newest team members. Toni is a Registered Dietitian who is passionate about supporting individuals with eating disorders on their road to recovery.

Being ready for recovery does not require a specific feeling or level of motivation; it is a state that is created with support and structure.

Every year, groups from across Canada come together on February 1st to 7th for Eating Disorder Awareness Week (EDAW), a week focusing on raising awareness about eating disorders in Canada and discussing challenges and barriers in accessing care.

Every day is an opportunity to choose recovery, even when that choice feels quiet or imperfect. This new year, you might consider choosing values-based living over resolutions, self-compassion over self-control, and long-term healing over short-term pressure.

The holidays are often described as magical, cozy, joyful and full of togetherness. While those things can be true, this season can also bring unique challenges for someone navigating recovery from an eating disorder.