Kerry Anne Parrett, a registered occupational therapist and case manager in CMHA Toronto’s Forensic Supportive Housing Program, reminds people to stay curious and stay open, even in the face of strong emotions. “Difficult emotions can be very overwhelming, and the urge to turn away from them can be strong. We can run from our emotions in a variety of ways, perhaps through food, substances, or work, but they will be there waiting for us. When we face our emotions, our inner pain, there is a chance to understand them and integrate them into our being. Be curious! Ask, what is going on here? What thoughts are coming up? What urges do I feel? Be open to observing these emotions and your responses to them. In that intentional, open curiosity, that purposeful awareness, we can find ways to better cope with difficult emotions.”

Kerry Anne says that her own therapist’s best advice was to stick with it. “He challenged me to bring more awareness to these scary emotions and thoughts, rather than less. He encouraged me to be with them. In doing that, they became a lot less scary. He also taught me that it's possible to live with unwanted thoughts and emotions and that I can experience happiness and joy alongside them.”