By Lisa Hayden, MA, Registered Psychologist | Licensed by the Nova Scotia Board of Examiners in Psychology | Reviewed for Clinical Accuracy on June 18, 2026 In my work with families across Pictou County, one of the most exhausting situations a parent describes is the...
Childhood Perfectionism & Anxiety Childhood perfectionism is often driven by anxiety not personality Around 9.4% of children have diagnosed anxiety (CDC), and 1 in 5 Canadian youth experience mental health challenges Perfectionism may look like avoidance,...
At a Glance: Students can lower test anxiety by practicing spaced study, active recall, and timed mock tests—plus fast calm-down skills like box breathing and progressive muscle relaxation. Parents can help by setting steady routines, validating feelings, modeling...
It often starts with a stomachache or tears at the door. Maybe your child clings a little tighter or suddenly dreads getting ready in the morning. As a psychologist who has worked with countless children and families, I’ve seen these moments unfold in many...
By Lisa Hayden, MA, Registered Psychologist | Reviewed for Clinical Accuracy on June 19, 2026 At a Glance Social anxiety disorder affects an estimated 10–15% of college and university students, making it one of the most common mental health challenges on campus. It...
Managing test anxiety can feel overwhelming, but you’re already on the right path. Building on proven strategies you may already know, we’re adding a few more techniques to help you refine your approach and achieve exam success. By tackling anxiety from...
Student mental health is becoming increasingly pressing for many parents and school districts, given growing concerns about students’ emotional well-being. For instance, one study found that 39% of Ontario high school students reported a moderate-to-severe level of...
Anxiety and defiance in children can often be interconnected. Adults often expect anxious children to be shy, cautious, clingy, or worried. But anxiety can look differently depending on the child, fears, and situation. For instance, some children with anxiety display...
