The purpose of the SKYRISE Media Society is to provide free public access to media content. This nonprofit organization aims to promote inclusivity and democratic access to information and entertainment through various media platforms. Democratizing Media: SKYRISE Media Society believes that media should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic background. By offering free access to media content, they strive to break down barriers and ensure that individuals from all walks of life have the opportunity to engage with diverse forms of media. Education and Awareness: The society recognizes the power of media in educating and raising awareness about important social issues. They aim to provide informative and thought-provoking content that can contribute to public discourse, encourage critical thinking, and promote social change. Cultural Exchange and Diversity: SKYRISE Media Society seeks to celebrate cultural diversity by showcasing a wide range of content from various regions, communities, and perspectives. Their platform serves as a medium for fostering understanding, appreciation, and dialogue among different cultures and communities. Community Engagement: The society actively engages with the community by collaborating with local artists, content creators, and organizations. They provide a platform for emerging talents, enabling them to showcase their work and reach a broader audience. Accessible Entertainment: Recognizing the importance of leisure and entertainment, SKYRISE Media Society offers a variety of media content, including films, TV shows, documentaries, and more. By making this content freely available, they aim to enhance people's quality of life and provide accessible avenues for relaxation and enjoyment. Overall, the SKYRISE Media Society's primary goal is to empower individuals by providing them with free access to diverse and engaging media content. Through their initiatives, they strive to foster a more inclusive, informed, and culturally rich society.
طبق آمارهای رسمی دولت کانادا، از اول سال جاری تا پایان ماه جون ۲۰۲۳ بیش از ۳۲ هزار نفر مورد کلاهبرداری های سایبری گزارش شده که بیش از ۲۱ هزار نفر قربانی بالغ بر ۲۸۴ میلیون دلار از دست دادند. تنها کمتر از سه میلیون دلار از این مبلغ برگردانده شده و بقیه مالباختگانی هستند که با یک اشتباه، اندوخته های سالهای پر رنج و زحمت خود را دو دستی تقدیم شیادان سایبری کردند.
در این سری از برنامه ها، با این پدیده مخرب در جامعه آشنا میشویم و به سالمندان و عزیزان خود می آموزیم تا فریب نخورند و در مقابله با این حقه بازیها هشیار باشند.
During this insightful interview, our primary focus centers around the critical subject of mental health crises, specifically delving into the realms of depression, anxiety, and various other mental illnesses. To provide expert insights, we are joined by distinguished Clinical Counsellors, each equipped with foundational educational training in this complex field. In today's discourse, we aim to unravel the profound significance that mental health holds in our lives and society at large. The multifaceted nature of mental health disorders calls for a comprehensive understanding of their implications, causes, and potential treatments. Our esteemed Clinical Counsellors bring to the table their accumulated expertise, shedding light on the nuances that differentiate various mental health conditions. Depression, a pervasive emotional ailment, and anxiety, its closely related counterpart, are experienced by millions worldwide. Yet, they manifest uniquely in each individual, underscoring the necessity of a nuanced comprehension. Through the lens of our knowledgeable guests, we endeavor to discern the subtleties that distinguish these conditions, enabling us to navigate their complexities with empathy and understanding. Furthermore, the broader spectrum of mental illnesses extends beyond depression and anxiety, encompassing an array of disorders with diverse presentations. These conditions can significantly impact one's cognition, emotions, and behaviour. Our seasoned Clinical Counsellors, drawing upon their foundational training, delve into the varied symptoms exhibited by different mental health disorders. This exploration aids us in appreciating the intricate tapestry of the human mind and the challenges individuals face. As we embark on this enlightening journey of exploration, we are guided by the expertise of our Clinical Counsellors, whose fundamental educational background equips them to illuminate the intricacies of mental health crises. By comprehending the disparities in symptoms, we move closer to fostering a society that embraces mental health as an integral facet of overall well-being. Through this conversation, we aspire to promote awareness, understanding, and destigmatization, ultimately paving the way for a more compassionate and informed world.
Our guests: Elke Babicki M.ED. R.C.C, Author and Registered Clinical Psychotherapist
Pegah Behbehani Licensed Professional Counsellor, RCC, MCP, Ind Eng, Com Eng
Journalist: Sherry Soltani
Skyrise Media Society
A Tale of Friendship and Resilience in the Face of Cyber Scams
Cyber scams can have a profound impact on friendships and relationships.
Vancouver Nights' Majid Mahichi speaks with two local victims of scamming who endured this experience and agreed to speak publicly about their experiences. Mehdi Hosseini and Majid Soltanzadeh share powerful and actionable insights, including:
1. Trust and Betrayal:A cyber scam often involves deception and manipulation. If one friend falls victim to a scam, the other may feel a sense of betrayal, as trust has been breached. The victim might blame themselves for being fooled, while the other friend might wonder why they weren't consulted or able to prevent it.
2. Emotional Toll:Being scammed can lead to a range of emotions, including embarrassment, shame, anger, and frustration. Victims might feel hesitant to share their experience, fearing judgment or pity from their friend. This emotional turmoil can create distance in the friendship.
3. Communication Breakdown:Friends may struggle to communicate about the scam. The victim might avoid discussing the incident due to embarrassment, while the other friend might feel uncomfortable bringing it up. This breakdown in open communication can strain the relationship.
4. Financial Strain:Depending on the severity of the scam, the victim might suffer financial losses. This could impact their ability to participate in shared activities or events with their friend. Resentment or guilt might arise if one friend feels burdened to cover expenses.
5. Blame and Misunderstanding:Friends might have differing perspectives on how the scam occurred. One might blame the victim for not being cautious enough, while the victim might blame themselves as well. This blame game can create misunderstandings and escalate conflicts.
6. Support Dynamics:The way friends support each other during and after the scam can influence the friendship. If the non-victim friend offers empathy, understanding, and assistance, it can strengthen the bond. However, if they display impatience or minimize the victim's feelings, it can further strain the relationship.
7. Resentment and Envy:If one friend avoids scams successfully while the other falls victim, jealousy or resentment might emerge. The victim might envy the other's ability to avoid such situations, while the non-victim might resent the attention the victim receives.
8. Loss of Shared Experiences:Victims of scams might need to focus on resolving the aftermath, such as financial recovery and legal actions. This can lead to a reduction in shared experiences, leading to a sense of disconnection and isolation.
9. Rebuilding Trust:Overcoming a scam requires rebuilding trust, both within oneself and with others. Friends might need to work together to rebuild the trust that was shaken by the incident, which can be a challenging process.
10.Lessons and Growth:On a positive note, going through a scam together can also lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of each other. Friends might learn how to navigate challenges, communicate better, and provide meaningful support during tough times.
In the end, how a friendship weathers a cyber scam depends on the individuals involved, their willingness to communicate openly, show empathy, and work through the challenges together.
Journalist: Majid Mahichi
Skyrise Media Society
Exploring the Interplay Between Mental Health and Addiction in BC (Part Two)
Almost 400,000 people in British Columbia suffer from some form of addiction or substance abuse, according to the British Columbia Medical Association. There is also a significant and complex relationship between addiction and mental health issues, including depression.
Today TV's Sherry Soltani sat down with Pegah Behbehan and Elke Bakicki, two Registered Clinical Counsellors with diverse backgrounds, to explore the relationship. They also weigh in on the importance of family involvement in supporting individuals dealing with these challenges.
Mental health refers to a person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being, while addiction involves a dependence on substances or behaviors despite negative consequences. The interaction between mental health and addiction can exacerbate both conditions and create a cycle that is challenging to break.
Here are some key points about the relationship between mental health and addiction in BC:
1. Co-Occurrence: Mental health disorders and addiction often co-occur. This means that individuals with mental health issues are more vulnerable to developing substance use disorders, and those with addiction are more susceptible to experiencing mental health problems. This co-occurrence is sometimes referred to as a "dual diagnosis" or "comorbidity."
2. Self-Medication: Some individuals with mental health challenges may turn to substances as a way to cope with their symptoms. For instance, someone with anxiety or depression might use drugs or alcohol to temporarily alleviate their distress. This self-medication can lead to a cycle of dependence and worsened mental health over time.
3. Neurochemical Interactions: Substance abuse can impact brain chemistry, potentially exacerbating or triggering mental health disorders. Prolonged drug or alcohol use can alter the brain's reward system, which may contribute to the development of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or psychosis.
4. Withdrawal and Triggers: Substance withdrawal can mimic or exacerbate symptoms of mental health disorders. Additionally, certain substances or the absence of substances can act as triggers for mental health episodes in those who are already vulnerable.
5. Stigma and Isolation: The stigma surrounding mental health and addiction can lead to social isolation, making recovery more challenging. The stigma can deter individuals from seeking help or disclosing their struggles to friends, family, or healthcare providers.
6. Access to Treatment: Access to appropriate and timely treatment for both mental health and addiction issues can be challenging in some areas of BC. There might be barriers such as long wait times, lack of specialized services, and limited resources.
7. Integrated Care: In recent years, efforts have been made to integrate mental health and addiction services to provide comprehensive and coordinated care. This approach recognizes the interconnectedness of these issues and aims to address both simultaneously.
8. Prevention and Education: BC has implemented various prevention and education programs aimed at raising awareness about mental health and addiction, reducing stigma, and providing information on healthy coping mechanisms and resources.
9. Support Services: There are organizations, hotlines, and clinics in BC that provide support to individuals dealing with mental health and addiction challenges. These resources offer counselling, therapy, harm-reduction strategies, and more.
10. Policy and Advocacy: Advocacy groups and policymakers in BC continue to work toward improving mental health and addiction services, reducing barriers to treatment, and promoting public policies that support those affected. It's important to note that the relationship between mental health and addiction is complex and varies from person to person. Seeking help from healthcare professionals, therapists, and support groups is crucial for anyone facing these challenges in BC or anywhere else. If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out for assistance is a vital step toward recovery.
Journalist: Sherry Soltani
Skyrise Media Society