Triggorama

In the season finale, Jay MacDonald speaks with Brian Webster, a social worker whose work spans justice services, youth diversion, employee assistance counselling, and addiction support. Brian breaks down what addiction looks like in real life, emphasizing that it’s not simply about willpower or “just stopping,” but about understanding the underlying drivers and building a practical recovery plan.
 
They talk about how the holidays can amplify pressures and risks, especially through social norms around alcohol and the expectation to participate. Brian shares concrete, realistic strategies for staying well, including setting clear limits, planning ahead, making safer choices in higher-risk settings, and leaning on peer and friend support in ways that don’t revolve around drinking. He also challenges all-or-nothing thinking, encourages small steps as the foundation for lasting change, and reframes “starting fresh” as something you can do at any moment, not just on January 1.

For more information, visit https://cmha.ca/

If you or someone you love is struggling, text or call Reach Out 24/7 at 519-433-2023.

Thank you to our Season 1 sponsor, Scholar's Choice. Supporting teachers inspiring classrooms because well-being starts with you. Learn more about Scholar's Choice here.

What is Triggorama?

In a sea of podcasts, Triggorama stands out. We address topics that people may want to shy away from in an informative, non-judgmental and fact-based listening space.

Our goal is simple - We want to share information about mental health and addictions. We're talking to thought leaders and people with lived experience to help our listeners who are struggling with their own mental health and addiction concerns. Or maybe you are supporting a loved one we have you covered. Together, we will trigger positive outcomes to increase our collective capacities while impactfully improving the lives of those we serve.

Thank you to our season one sponsor of Triggorama, Scholar's Choice. Supporting Teachers, Inspiring Classrooms because wellbeing starts with you.

Triggorama is developed by the Canadian Mental Health Association, Thames Valley Addiction and Mental Health Services, and you can listen to us wherever you get your podcast.