Anda di halaman 1dari 56

G 2015

SPRIN

Beep Beep

Ace your learners


license exam with
this invaluable tool

Meet Zander
Hartman

PM #40020055

He took on Albertas
biggest politicians in
the Bill 10 debate

Make the Leap

From high school to


the real world

Robb Nashs message of strength strikes a chord

P LU S :
mer
u
o
Y r sum
ck,
a
p
starter
Dead
g
in
lk
The Wa
n
xploratio
and an e
r
u
o
t
into wha
ally
selfies re
t us
u
o
b
a
say

k spritz, you
With just one quic at popular
th
can sound just like dent everyone
stu
foreign exchange
swoons over.
abelfishian
Using patented B Instant Accent
,
Nanotechnology ble language
si
spray activates invi gue and instantly
n
receptors on the to tic lilt that says,
exo
delivers a worldy, d therefore really
an
Hey, Im different Get to know me!
g.
incredibly interestin
centuates!
c
a
it
e
il
h
w
s
n
e
h
Fres

TRY THESE OTHER GREAT FLAVOURS!


Parisian Passion Fruit
Irish Mist Mint
Bombay Berry Blast

Dutch Choco Mint


Italian Ice Mint
Russian Refresh Mint

WARNING: Excessive use may cause: lip numbness and/or chapping, tongue
discolouration, swelling and/or peeling ,stuttering, drooling, loss of taste and/or
smell, yellowing of and/or loss of teeth, shortness of breath, giddyness, spontaneous
laughter, memory loss. Do not allow spray to come into contact with children, fabrics
or small pets. May contain nuts. Keep away from open flame.

17
whats inside

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS
4

The Choices Issue:

Welcome to Grip
A message from a Grip contributor, plus an
introduction to three of our writers

Everyday were faced with


dozens of choices. This issue
of Grip looks at how to consider
what lies ahead of us, how to
plan for our future and what we
can do to make better decisions.
The Big Choice
Often, big life decisions can seem
insurmountable. One teen shows us how he
took on the pressure of making a change
BY EVAN TRAN

Everything You Need to Know


About mindfulness
BY IRTIZA OYON

Be the Change
Feeling overwhelmed by doom-and-gloom
scenarios? Follow these suggestions to make a
positive impact on the world around you
BY CHRISTINE GREEN

Yours to Keep
How do you know when its time to tell a secret?
BY JASMINE BLACKETT

How to Pro and Con


Theres no point making a pro and con list if you
dont do it effectively. Here are some tips for
making your pro and con list the best it can be
Whats Stopping You?
How do you draw the line between
smart risk and stupid risk?
BY SANDY XIN XU

Making the Leap


Grip contributors through the years give you
some advice on the big jump from high school
to The Real World
The Grass is Greener
How better decision making skills can help you
avoid looking back with regret
BY LUNA YANG

Debate: Are our selfies truly a


reflection of ourselves?
Two Grip writers debate
the true meaning of selfies
BY TAYLOR MASTERS AND SANDY XIN XU

18
21
22
24
26
28
30
32
34

News and views


A surefire way to ace your learners license
exam, a teen in the NWT hosts her own
radio show, the Edmonton STEM Expo
encourages teens in science and music,
book and game reviews

14

Off the Wall


A really important collection of must-know
trivia. Trust us

36
COVER ILLUSTRATION: KIEL HUNKA

Fan Fare
Robb Nashs message of strength
strikes a chord
BY CHANTELLE FOISIE

38

This Is... Zander Hartman


He helped lobby the provincial government
to pass Bill 10, making schools a more
inclusive place for everyone
BY LYNDSIE BOURGON

46

Portfolio
The creative spirit thrives in Alberta!
Check out photography, art and words
submitted by teens across the province

53

Dodge
Sonny finds himself saddled with
a big decision

54

Last Word
A starter pack for your
summer vacation
Explorations in
the Underworld
Hashtags are the
newest way to talk
about depression,
self-harm and suicide

42

BY ERIN EMILY ANN VANCE

The Walking Wounded


Some of televisions most
popular shows deal with
post-traumatic stress
disorder in real ways
BY J.M.M. LEWIS

44
GRIPMagazine

03

04
From a Grip Contributor

ello readers, and thanks for cracking open the final issue
of Grip.
The team behind Grip Venture Publishing, Alberta Health Services
and youth contributors from across Alberta have been hard at work to
deliver you teen-driven content for nine years. Issues of the magazine
published in the spring and fall have included book, CD and
game reviews, debates on timely topics, feature
articles and interviews that have exposed all of us to
the sheer breadth of the teenage experience.
This issue addresses the topic of choices and
how they affect our lives. Our contributors consider
the decisions we need to make, big and small from
what TV shows to watch and books to read to what
schools to apply to and whether or not we should spill
a secret. In this issue we also feature stories about the
use of self-harm hashtags in online communities, the
recent debates about GSAs in Alberta schools and an
ode to the pro and con list.
Some choices are easy to make, and some require
long deliberation. Recently, Alberta Health Services
chose to make this the last issue of Grip. It wasnt an
easy decision no doubt lists were written, passionate
discussions were had and many phone calls were made.
In the end, someone had to sit down and make the final choice that
this would be the end of the road.
Grip has brought humour, inspiration and encouragement to
thousands of students from Alberta during its time in publication.
Young writers across the province have had the chance to be published
in an uplifting and challenging environment. There is no doubt that the
hole left behind by this landmark publication will be noticeable and
how incredible is that?
In that spirit, lets make a choice. A choice to never give up and to
hold the mandate of Grip in our hearts even as this publication comes
to an end. Young people deserve a voice, deserve a community and
deserve help. We can continue to provide those things for one another.
Thank you to the amazing team who has worked so ceaselessly for
this magazine! Thank you to the contributors who have consistently
shared their words for nine years and to the artists who have made
those words look so darn good. Thank you to those who have edited
our work, those who printed and distributed it across the province and
to those who have contributed expert advice for all our questions.
Enjoy this issue of Grip, and best of luck on the journey ahead. Weve
got every faith in you, and the choices youll make.
J.M.M. Lewis

GRIPMagazine

Contributors
Spring 2015 | Volume 9, No. 1
PUBLISHER

Ruth Kelly

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Rachel Carr

MANAGING EDITOR

Lyndsie Bourgon | creative@griponlife.ca


DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM CONTENT

Mifi Purvis

EDITORIAL ADVISORS

Deb Gray, Krista Warners


ART DIRECTOR

Charles Burke

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR

Andrea deBoer

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Ben Rude

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Betty Feniak Smith

PRODUCTION TECHNICIANS

Brent Felzien, Brandon Hoover


DISTRIBUTION

Fiona Marchetto is almost 12 years old. She has written for publications such as Press Plus 1, the Canadian Film Review and runs her own
blog, Calgary Kid Critic (calgarykidcritic.wordpress.com). In 2013, she
was also a judge in the Calgary International Film Festivals Youth by
Youth Competition. She has also been playing the violin for eight years
and has opened for the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. Check out her
book review on pg. 10.

Karen Reilly | getgrip@griponlife.ca


CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lauren H. Berry, Jasmine Blackett, Priya Croft, Deena Goodrunning,


Louise Fournier, Christine Green, Chantelle Foisie, Jessica Highstead,
J.M.M. Lewis, Catherine Lieu, Fiona Marchetto, Taylor Masters,
Irtiza Oyon, Marlee Salas, Reshma Sirajee, Evan Tran,
Erin Emily Ann Vance, Meesha Wittkopf, Sandy Xin Xu, Luna Yang
CONTRIBUTING CONTENT EXPERTS

Heather Cobb, Kaitlin Niksic, Christie Mellan, Matthew Miller, Michele


Pentyliuk, Dexa Stoutjesdyk, Robyn Romano, Tammy Troute-Wood,
Brian Zelt
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS AND ILLUSTRATORS

Elizabeth Alloway, Buffy Goodman, Sydney Desjarlais, Eric Gravel,


Keil Hunka, Sophia Lengle, Pandy Ma, James MacDonald, Jordyn Olth,
Heeyeong Park, Jared Propp

Taylor Masters is a grade 12 student who is


both excited and terrified about graduating
high school. She is looking forward to starting college in fall of 2015, when shell start her
Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in English.
She hopes to become a journalist and work
for National Geographic. She enjoys reading
and riding horses, loves to play her guitar
and enjoys participating in her schools many
musicals and plays.

Grip is published by Venture Publishing Inc.


for Alberta Health Services

The content of this magazine is provided for general informational purposes only and
is not intended to replace consultations with your doctor or to provide medical advice,
diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health
provider with any personal medical and health questions that you may have.
Printed in Canada by Transcontinental LGM Graphics
Canadian Publications Mail Agreement #40020055
Contents copyright 2015 by Alberta Health Services. Content may not be reprinted
or reproduced without written permission from Alberta Health Services.

Venture Publishing Inc.


10259-105 Street, Edmonton, AB T5J 1E3
Tel: 780-990-0839 | Fax: 780-425-4921 | Toll-free: 1-866-227-4276
circulation@venturepublishing.ca

Jasmine Blackett lives in Calgary


and will graduate next year. She
hopes to study criminal psychology in
school. Aside from writing, she leads
an active and healthy lifestyle, and is
a competitive track and field athlete.
Shes also interested in writing and
music. Check out her story, on telling
secrets, on pg. 24.

The views expressed in Grip are the opinions of the writers and do not necessarily
reflect the opinions of Alberta Health Services or Venture Publishing

GRIPMagazine

05

06

it HAPPENS | News

News

Where Your Passion STEMs From


By Reshma Sirajee

Heres a question: Would you rather sit at home doing biology


questions for hours or go to a science camp and do boundless
biology experiments? I think we can all agree the second option
seems more exciting, and thats what Albertas Science Expo is
there for.
The Science Expo Youth Empowerment Group is one of
Canadas largest student organizations, engaging students
in STEM (thats science, technology, engineering and math)
opportunities outside of the classroom and giving students a
chance to explore at their annual expo conferences.
I was first introduced to the Science Expo by my high school
teachers, and enjoyed it so much that I have since become part of
the Science Expo Ambassador Program. Getting involved in the
science community in Edmonton was a way to gradually come out
of my comfort zone and challenge myself to pursue my passion in

science. As a result, I have become more comfortable in my own


skin. Being a part of Science Expo, I have taken the initiative to
organize activities related to STEM at my school and aspire to
share my passion with other ambitious students.
There are many programs that Science Expo offers, including
the annual conference in Edmonton that takes place in September
2015. There is also a peer mentorship program and student and
teacher outreach programs.
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
If youre interested in learning more about the Science Expo, sign
up for the email newsletter, which delivers information about
upcoming opportunities in Alberta and the annual conference
right to your inbox. Check out science-expo.org and make sure to
like us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Tuning in to Feel Real Radio


By Jessica Highstead

Every week, radio host Jacey Firth produces a show called


Feel Real Radio. The program is produced from the Northwest
Territories and can be streamed from anywhere in the world. The
show is centred on teen issues, like alcohol and drugs, traditions,
school and living your life to the fullest.

GRIPMagazine

Feel Real Radio was born as an idea to inspire and celebrate


NWT youth, says Firth, who started the show when she was just
19 years old. Feel Real Radio is part of a provincial program called
My Voice, My Choice, which empowers youth to make healthy
choices. Firth grew up in the small northern community of Inuvik,
and says she knows how easy it is to feel alone.
Firths radio show reaches out to guests from across the North
who are doing awesome things in their communities. Guests on
the show talk about everything from being LGBTQ to depression,
alcoholism, sports, community service and creativity. Sometimes,
they even provide the entertainment. Firth says its youth that
keep her motivated while making the show.
Our show celebrates everything thats great about youth, she
says. For the last three months weve had a contest where NWT
youth could nominate other youth who they think are awesome.
We had some amazing nominations every month.
Visit MyVoiceMyChoice.hss.gov.nt.ca/feel-real-radio to give
the show a listen.

MY DUSTY
BOOKSHELF
Pride and Prejudice
By Jane Austen

Reviewed by Jessica Highstead


Its a truth universally acknowledged that any person in want
of a good, romantic book must check out Jane Austens Pride and
Prejudice. Sure its romance, but its not the sort of romance that
leaves you bored or wishing for more. Generally, romance novels
get cast aside because they can seem all the same: they have no
adventure and they move too slowly. Pride and Prejudice is nothing
like that.
This book is a coming of age story that follows proper ladies in
society as they try to find a good husband, attend the right events,
secure a future and stay wealthy. In it we follow the five Bennet
sisters, though we focus on one sister in particular: Elizabeth.
Stubborn, independent and incredibly smart, Lizzy doesnt have

time for rude, overbearing or distant suitors. Unfortunately, her


mother is determined to marry off as many of her daughters as she
can, and quick.
Elizabeth is so busy dealing with her dramatic mother and sisters
that its no wonder she doesnt have time for the haughty Mr. Darcy.
Hes handsome and wealthy, but also distant and rude. And he
definitely doesnt like the Bennets. Except, of course, for Elizabeth.
Grade: B+ Not because it isnt excellent, but because Austens
characters are occasionally ramblers and with the writing style
it can be hard to focus after lengthy narratives. Another demerit
comes because, as pretty and cute as it is, thats all it is. You cant
read this book if youre looking for adventure or comedy. Still, its a
love story through and through.

Keep the Hunger at Bay


By Louise Fournier

Its study season: after hours on end spent forcing your


brain to prepare for exams, you need a chance to reboot
with a healthy snack. Next time youre scanning the
pantry wondering what you could possibly eat, try one of
these ideas:

Nachos
This recipe is super simple and
it is easy to get creative with,
depending on what you like and
what you have in the house:
Grab a baking tray, some tortilla chips, vegetables,
cheese and any other toppings you like. Spread the
chips evenly on a baking tray and cover with a handful
of cheese. Next, cut up vegetables like peppers or green
onions to garnish the dish with. Once these vegetables
are sliced up, go ahead and sprinkle them on top of the
cheese-covered chips. Place in the oven or microwave and
cook until the cheese has completely melted. Remove from
the oven and indulge while studying.

Potato Skins
This recipe takes a bit longer,
but the end result is worth
the effort:
First youll need some
potatoes, salt, pepper, butter
and optional bacon bits or
green onions. Preheat the
oven to 400oF (200oC), then wash and cut the potatoes
into thin slices. Butter both sides of the potato slices and
sprinkle them with the salt and pepper. Cover a baking
tray in aluminum foil and spread a thin layer of oil or
cooking spray on it. Place the seasoned potato slices on
the tray then pop them in the oven. Turn the slices after
15 minutes or when they look golden brown, then cook for
another 15 minutes. Once the potatoes have cooked, add
the cheese and any other toppings you want before placing back in the oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese.
Dont put the green onions on until after the cheese is
melted and youre about to eat!

GRIPMagazine

07

08

it HAPPENS | News

News

Text Your
Way Through It

By Taylor Masters

have limited hours, but Romano says the


Distress Centre is working towards having
24/7 access. Texting is more private and
much more accessible to youth nowadays,
she says. Its rare that you see a youth with
their phone up to their ear, its much more
common to see them texting and playing
games on their phone. One of the main differences that Romano has noticed between
the call line, chatrooms and text line is that
the conversations seem to have gotten
longer. According to 2014 tracking, heres
what teens are talking about most:

For 32 years, Distress Centre Calgary


has been there for youth. Its ConnecTeen
Program provides a distress line over the
phone and online, and over the past two
years they have also been running a text
message service that connects youth with
youth volunteers who provide peer support.
At first, the Distress Centre started a texting pilot project in Calgarys Branton Junior
High. With more and more teens communicating by text, they saw positive results
quickly and launched a full-swing text line
in November 2013. And it has proven to be

GRIPMagazine

really popular: The total chatroom activity


has gone down drastically just in 2014 due
to the text line, says Robyn Romano, a volunteer team lead at the Distress Centre. The
total number of text conversations that took
place in 2014 was 1253, the total chatroom
conversations were 521 and the number of
phone calls was 687. The goal was to help
more youth from wherever they are. Its hard
sometimes for them to access the Internet or
a computer, so the text line opens up a whole
new way to get support.
Right now, the text and chatroom services

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

Psychological distress
Relationships
Friendships
Depression
Suicide
Anxiety
Family
Loneliness and isolation
Their parents
Self-esteem

TEXT: 587-333-2724
PHONE: 403-264-TEEN
CHAT: calgaryconnecteen.com

THE ROAD TO SUCCESS


Students across Alberta are finding success with a
learners license study prep kit and app
By Taylor Masters
Its a well-kept secret that might just help you get ahead:
for four years, the Learners License Prep Kit has been helping
youth pass their learners license exam all over Alberta.
Through flashcards and a new mobile app, registered
psychologists Dexa Stoutjesdyk and Michele Pentyliuk
have developed a test preparation kit that has helped many
students pass their exam and get on the road.
Stoutjesdyk says the flashcards and app help you retain
information and make you a better driver. The online practice
tests are great for testing the knowledge but the flashcards are
great for learning the knowledge, she says.
Calem Beddow, a 14-year-old who just passed his learners
exam thanks to the kit, says those who use the learners kit
should study one chapter at a time using the flash cards to
master the material before moving on. Then come back every
now and then to review old chapters and keep the information
fresh. The app, which launched last September, includes flash
cards, definitions and tutorial videos, and tells you how much
of each chapter you know. It helps you learn to recognize
what you know and what you dont and works to help you
understand the questions.
Sales of the kits help raise funds and awareness for the
Learning Disability Association of Albertas (LDAA) Right
to Read program. This program helps screen children at a
young age for reading problems. So far they have raised over
$200,000 for the cause.
BUY THE KIT
You can buy your own kit at a local registry in your hometown.
Visit www.driversprepkit.com/where-to-buy/ to find one.
BUY THE APP
The Learners License Prep Kit app costs $9.99
in the iTunes App Store or on Google Play.

GRIPMagazine

09

10

it HAPPENS | Reviews

Rev

Beach reads
The Only Thing to Fear
By Caroline Tung Richmond
REVIEWED BY FIONA MARCHETTO

In The Only Thing to Fear, Zara St. James lives


in a dystopian past world of Nazis, where the
Allies never won the Second World War and
where freedom for all doesnt exist. She wishes
she could do something to help overthrow the
Nazis, but she cant because her overprotective
Uncle Red refuses to let her join the Alliance, a
rogue group of rebels scattered amongst the
Territories (the United States), formed to bring
down the Nazi Empire. Uncle Red will stop at
nothing to make sure Zara is safe, and Zara is
faced with a choice: freedom or death.
The way Tung Richmond presents her
hypothetical version of life under Nazi rule
is full of intricate details. I thought the idea
of anomaly soldiers genetically-modified
people who have super powers like flying,
shooting ice and controlling wind are a great
addition to the book. They are kind of like
what Captain America could have been, if he
were made under the supervision of Nazis as
opposed to American scientists. The anomaly
soldiers are a little bit frightening, and I am
very glad that they do not exist in real life (that
I know of).
I read this book over the span of two days;
it was a definite page turner! Pre-teens and
teenagers that like history and historic fiction
would enjoy it. Teens who like to try and guess
the ending of a book before it happens will
also like this book. It gives lots of room for
imagination on the readers part.
Grade: B+ I thought The Only Thing to Fear
was very creative and a wonderful book. I
loved the characters, the order of events and
all the detailed personalities and their scope of
emotions. The beginning was a little slow, but
even though it took a little bit for things to really
get going, I couldnt put the book down once
they did.

GRIPMagazine

Girl Online
By Zoe Sugg
REVIEWED BY JASMINE BLACKETT

Penny Porter is a clumsy, constantly-embarrassed, curly-haired, not-overly-popular high


school girl. Girl Online begins with Pennys
usual dilemmas in school, dealing with her
so-called best friend Megan and the boy
that she just dreams about asking her out,
Ollie. The only escape Penny seems to have
is through the Internet and her blog, where
she keeps her identity secret as Girl Online.
Girl Online is the first novel from YouTube
vlogger Zoe Sugg, better known as Zoella.
The book is your typical lets fall in love in
one day teen romance novel. It was a very
easy read, and it was one that I wanted to
continue reading just to find out what happens next. But I wasnt impressed with the
overall content of the book: it was easy to
predict what was going to happen next. If
you are looking for a quick, easy, non-complicated read then I would definitely recommend Girl Online, but I was not as impressed
as I thought I would be with Suggs writing.
As her YouTube videos have such character
and flair to them, I expected the same from
her book.
Grade: B+ If you are looking for a comingof-age cheesy teen romance novel, then
this is the book for you. Some of Pennys
embarrassing moments are downright
cringe-worthy, but worth a little giggle.

eviews
Grip reviewers recommend some books to help
you laze away those summer days

The Buddha and the Borderline


By Kiera van Gelder
REVIEWED BY LOUISE FOURNIER

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) can be


characterized by many different symptoms,
including impulsivity, unstable self-image
and the need to prevent real or imagined
abandonment. This novel explores what
the world really looks like to someone who
is viewing it through the lens of BPD. After
a series of mistakes and bad relationships,
Van Gelder finds a person who challenges
her to take control of her life and learn how to
live the life she has always wanted. Through
their encouragement to seek help in the
form of therapy and support groups, Van
Gelder learns more about herself and ways to
manage her condition.
Van Gelder opens her heart up to her
readers as she takes them through her
recovery journey, which includes seeking
solace in the practice of Buddhism. This is

a book that speaks of overcoming struggles


no matter how difficult, of perseverance,
of seeking help and creating a network
that will always be there for you. This book
shows how, for those with BPD, the disorder
doesnt have to define their lives.
Grade: B The Buddha and the Borderline
definitely opens your mind to the difficulties
faced by those with Borderline Personality
Disorder. The content is engaging and will
cause you to cry, root for van Gelder and make
you eager to know the outcome. I believe its
important to warn readers that mature material
is covered in this novel such as blood letters,
sexual relations and intense swearing.

The Mara Dyer Trilogy


By Michelle Hodkin
REVIEWED BY ERIN EMILY ANN VANCE

Mara Dyer wakes up in a hospital with no


recollection of how she got there. Her friends
have all died in the collapse of the old asylum,
and she cant shake the feeling that it wasnt
just an accident. After changing schools, Mara
finds herself drawn to the resident bad-boy,
Noah Shaw.
Noah is your typical male protagonist:
hes a jerk, and Mara (secretly) loves it. The
two discover that they arent just two hot
people attracted to each other. Something is
different about them; something sinister. The
Unbecoming of Mara Dyer, the first book in the
Mara Dyer trilogy, lacks female characters,
even though the protagonist is a woman. The

love story is a bit clichd, but it is still titillating in


the sense that you might want to hide the book
to protect your crush on Noah Shaw.
The second book in the trilogy, The Evolution
of Mara Dyer, provides an interesting link
between the paranormal aspects of the novel
and the underlying commentary on mental
illness. It takes place largely in institutions
similar to the one that collapsed on Mara and
her friends in the first book. Hodkin is at work on
the third book, The Retribution of Maria Dyer.
Grade: A Although the Mara Dyer series is absolutely intoxicating and gains points in the diversity
of its characters, it is a series to enjoy while looking at with a critical eye.

GRIPMagazine

11

Rev

12

it HAPPENS | Reviews

Summer sounds
Make these the soundtrack to
your summer vacation

Running with Scissors


Janet Devlin
REVIEWED BY JASMINE BLACKETT

Running with Scissors, released last summer,


is Janet Devlins debut album. Thanks to her
haunting lyrics and natural talent, this album has
unsurprisingly received several great reviews.
When Devlin sings, you automatically want to
listen. Her voice is hypnotizing, compelling and
delicate. If you are a fan of Ed Sheeran or Sam
Smith, then this is an album I would recommend
it has similarly poetic and inspiring lyrics, soft
voices and sweet music. At times, Running
with Scissors sounds perfect only for the sad or
wistful, and the music can be a bit too slow and
fragile. But I like the way her voice emphasizes
the poetry of the lyrics in her songs, and the

The Pinkprint
Nicki Minaj
REVIEWED BY IRTIZA OYON

After her party anthem Anaconda became a


sensation overnight, the song served to define
Nicki Minajs music: sexual, lighthearted and
irresistibly catchy. But the work in her newest
album, The Pinkprint, cant be defined that
simply. Its full of raw emotion, talent and personal
stories that reveal the confident young stars
vulnerabilities.
With a title inspired by Jay-Zs legendary Blueprint, Minaj has created her own print the female
print, as shown by the simple album cover of a
pink thumbprint. The Pinkprint surprises you with
a new feel to each song; starting with the auto-

GRIPMagazine

biographical All Things Go, Minaj reflects


on highly personal topics, like losing a child
as a teen. I Lied, The Crying Game and
Grand Piano exhibit Minajs impressive
vocal range and take a leap out of her usual
genre to appeal to pop enthusiasts. In Feeling Myself, Nicki, alongside the legendary
Beyonc, creates a theme song of confidence and empowerment.
Grade: A- This album is Minajs most
personal, and reflects many facets that
any music enthusiast can identify with.
She continues to grow as an artist, while
emerging as a feminist icon.

music works well to complement her


voice.
Janet Devlin was originally a contestant
on the British reality television show X
Factor, and she has come a long way
since she appeared on the program
in 2011. Her style doesnt fit into the
pop and dance music that often
characterizes the show, and now
that she has embraced her singersongwriter style her true colours are
shining bright.
Grade: B+ For the inspiring (though
often maudlin) lyrics, beautiful music and
Devlins even more beautiful voice.

views
The 1975
The 1975
REVIEWED BY MARLEE SALAS

The 1975s debut, self-titled album comes on


the heels of four previous EPs from the British
indie-pop/rock band. The band has been
performing, writing and playing music together
for more than 10 years, and this albums
songs are mostly about the leader singer
Mattys life. The 1975 is full of bright songs, like
Chocolate, Girls and Settle Down. From
parties and road trips to studying and relaxing,
this album is a great listen for all occasions.
It has a 1980s vibe that leaves listeners
humming and singing the tracks all day.
There is a track for everyone on this album,
whether its the moodier, bass filled song Talk
or the cool, electronic groove of Menswear.

Same Trailer Different Park


Kacey Musgraves
REVIEWED BY TAYLOR MASTERS

In her album Same Trailer Different


Park, Kacey Musgraves gives a
realistic and down-to-earth view on
life and its many challenges.
This is Musgraves fourth album
but her first on a big label. It has
two hits that you might recognize:
Merry Go Round and Follow Your
Arrow. Staying true to the theme of
the album, these songs really make
you think about who you are as a
person while maintaining a catchy
and interesting beat.
Musgraves co-wrote all 12 of the

Healys poetic lyrics create


a thoughtful attitude that
surrounds the songs,
album and band. The 1975
is in the midst of recording
a second album to build
on the success of the first.
Heres hoping the second
will be equivalent to the
debut.
Grade: A The 1975s
tracks each shine in their
own way, melding into a
phenomenal album that leaves everyone that listens
to it with a new favourite. A band is like a team or a
company, comprising many, it is still singular.

songs that are featured on the


album, which has a very country
feel to it. It kind of reminds me of
Tammy Wynette and Loretta Lynn.
The songs all have the same feel,
and are often fun and catchy. I like
Musgraves because she gives us
insightful life lessons that teach us
to look for the silver linings and
follow our own arrows.
Grade: B While Kacey Musgraves
keeps the true country spirit alive
and well with some good down-toearth music, all the tunes do sound
somewhat the same. She does,
however, give very good advice on
how to live life to the fullest.
GRIPMagazine

13

14

it HAPPENS | Reviews

Game Time

Off th

Here are Grips game picks for summer


Title: Legend of Zelda: Majoras
Mask
Platform: Nintendo 3DS
Rating: T for Teen
REVIEWED BY EVAN TRAN

The lure behind remaking Majoras Mask


for 3DS is rooted in a laundry list of perks:
3D graphics, updated visuals and, for
those who played the original in the early2000s, an overall feeling of nostalgia.
So, does the remake of Majoras Mask
hold up?
The sequel to Ocarina of Time (which
Nintendo also remade for the 3DS),
Majoras Mask is an odd game that gave me shivers as a child. Ganon, the mainstay
villain of the series, isnt present and Zelda is barely around throughout the quest. Instead,
Majoras Mask pits you against Skull Kid, who is in possession of an evil mask that calls
upon the moon to destroy the world. Eventually, our titular hero, Link, stumbles into the
foreign world of Termina. To prevent the end of this world in 72 hours, he has a few tricks
up his sleeve: most notably, masks. Each mask lets Link change his physique to fit the
situation.
This game is meant to be replayed multiple times, and you can rewind time anytime
during the 72 hours you have to save Termina to live those days over again. With a full
night and day cycle, interactions change throughout the world depending on when you
speak to its inhabitants, and the way Nintendos designers have done it is really refreshing.
Grade: A Legend of Zelda: Majoras Mask 3DS brings nostalgia, a host of vibrant and
odd themes and plenty more Zelda adventure. The remake might have come earlier than
expected, but the adventure is just as oddly enjoyable.

Title: Carcassonne
Platform: Board game!
Number of players: 2-5; best with 2 players
Age: 13+
Average time to play: 40 minutes
REVIEWED BY MEESHA WITTKOPF

Carcassonne is a strategic tile-laying game that keeps


players thinking about their next move. Its got a medieval look to it; the rad little castles and cathedrals set the
mood and make the game, itself, even better. Its a great
game for those who are starting to get into the board
game world or who just play them casually. It doesnt get
old; once you play, youll see why.
The point of the game is to get the most points and
to achieve this goal you have to build (and complete)
cities, roads and fields. Its a pretty simple game once
you get the hang of it. You start off with one tile, and each
player has their own pile of tiles. When your turn comes,
you match the tile you pick up with the tile on the table;
road-to-road, field-to-field, city-to-city. In order to claim
cities, roads, fields, you have to place your meeple on
the territory (but only if it is unclaimed).
Grade: A The best thing about this game is that reflects how you want it to play.
Overall, it can be a pretty calming game, unless you start stealing points from others
(though to me personally, thats the best part).

GRIPMagazine

The only
word th 15 letter
a
spelled t can be
without
repeatin
g
uncopy a letter is
rightable
!

Fairy t
ale
are more s
than tru
e
not beca :
use
they tell
u
that dra s
gons
exist, bu
t
because
they
tell us th
a
dragons t
can
be beate
n
Neil Gaim .
Coraline an,

Your body
is creating
and killing
15 million
red blood
cells per
second!

he Wall
t
More girls should star
joining boys teams so
it is a tradition and it
wont be so special.
Mone Davis

Lucky you : a ne
w study
has found that
teens
need more slee
p th
theyre currently an
ge
While some scho tting.
ols
are addressing
th
implementing la is by
te
times, you now r start
have a good
excuse to sleep
in a bit.

The m
hunt f agazine Gla
o
s
writin r mythic w s Buffalo is
riterly
uppin
g cont
g
Guild
p
e
of Alb st! Sponsor ower with its
erta, G
its firs
Poetry
ed by
t
t
previo Prize will b lass Buffalo he Writers
s 2015
e awa
usly u
rded t
from a
npubl
o
i
n
age of Alberta re shed poem the best,
receiv
sident
30. Th
ed
$500 a
e winn
under
n
Fall 20 d will be p ing poet re the
c
u
to sub 15 issue. Th blished in t eives
e dead
mit is
he
For co
J
mplet uly 31, 2015 line
e subm
guide
.
li
glassb nes, please ission
v
uffalo
.com/c isit
ontest

est country is
Did you know? The worlds new
and located in
Liberland, which is seven km sq
ional anthem
southeast Europe. It has a flag, nat
was founded
and provisional government and
k its a joke.
on April 13, 2015. Some people thin

GRIPMagazine

15

HELP
wanTeD

16

Got a question that no one can answer, or that youre too afraid to
ask your parents, teacher or best friend? Experts at the
Alberta Health Services can answer the most persistent question
you have related to any topic: relationships, school, sexuality,
puberty, drugs, love, life and the pursuit of happiness.
So what are you waiting for?
Find help at:
Kids Help Phone:
1-800-668-6868
Mental Health Help Line:
1-877-303-2642
HEALTHLink:
8-1-1
This past January, two teenage girls in Ontario
lobbied their provincial government and
succeeded in having the provinces new sex
education curriculum include discussions
surrounding consent. In this issue of Grip,
weve asked AHS sexual health specialists
Tammy Troute-Wood and Heather Cobb to
help us answer: How do I know what consent
really is and what do I need to know about
consent in my personal relationships?
Sexual activity includes kissing, sexual
touching and sexual intercourse (e.g. oral,
anal, or vaginal). The choice to have sex is
very personal. Consent means all partners
agree to the sexual activity and everyone
understands what theyre agreeing to. Partners must give and get consent every time
they have sex.

Consent is:
needed for every sexual activity
understanding what you are saying yes to
asking your partner if they understand what
they are saying yes to
checking in with your partner and accepting that they or you can change your mind
Consent CANNOT be given when:
a person is drunk or high
a person is forced, threatened, bribed,
intimidated or offered rewards to do
something sexual
Sexual activity without consent is sexual
assault.

What do I need to know about sex and


the law in Canada?
Everyone has the right to make choices about
sex. Consent laws are to protect you and help
you enjoy healthy relationships.
In Canada, age of consent means the legal
age at which a youth can make a decision to
have sex or not. The law says a 16-year-old
can consent to sexual activity, except if:
the other person is in a position of authority

(e.g., teacher, coach or employer). By law,


you must be 18 to have sex with a person
in a position of authority.
the sexual activity is exploitative
(e.g., porn, prostitution)

Are there exceptions to the law?


What if Im 14 or 15 and thinking of having sex?
According to the law, a 14- or 15-year-old can
consent to sexual activity if the partner is less
than five years older and not in a position of
authority.

What if Im 12 or 13?
According to the law, a 12- or 13 year-old can
consent to sex if the partner is less than two
years older and not in a position of authority.

What if Im under 12?


Children under 12 cannot consent to any
sexual activity. Having sex with a child under
the age of 12 is against the law and is sexual
abuse.

Help Wanted is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultations with your
doctor or to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified
health providers with any personal medical and health questions that you may have.

GRIPMagazine

THE
CHOICES
ISSUE
Everyday, were
faced with dozens
of choices some of
them minor, some of
them life-changing.
This issue of Grip
looks at how we
make choices, how
to consider what
lies ahead of us,
how to plan for our
future and what we
can do to make the
decision-making
process easier.

THE BIG CHOICE

ONE TEEN SHOWS US HOW HE TOOK ON THE PRESSURE OF MAKING A CHANGE

18

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT


MINDFULNESS

21

YOURS TO KEEP

24

HOW TO PRO AND CON

26
30
32

HOW TAKING A PAUSE CAN HELP US CALM DOWN

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN ITS TIME TO TELL A SECRET?

SOME TIPS TO HELP MAKE YOUR PRO AND CON LIST THE BEST THAT IT CAN BE

MAKING THE LEAP

GRIP CONTRIBUTORS GIVE YOU ADVICE ON THE BIG JUMP FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO
THE REAL WORLD

THE GRASS IS GREENER

HOW MAKING GOOD DECISIONS CAN HELP YOU BANISH REGRET

GRIPMagazine

17

18

The

BIG

Choice
Often, big life decisions can seem
insurmountable. One teen shows
us how he took on the pressure of
making a change

By Evan Tran
When I sat down with pen and paper, I knew the daunting
task ahead of me: making a choice that would change the course of
my education, and emotional well-being, forever. No pressure, right?

GRIPMagazine

GRIPMagazine

19

20
High school was a difficult period in my life.
It was in my first year of high school, when I
began struggling with mental illness that had
yet to be diagnosed. I was experiencing repetitive thoughts and the constant feeling of gloom.
I had no real friends, and I was in a constant
state of emotional anxiety about the people I
was spending time with. I felt trapped.
I began to consider switching schools. To
help me narrow down my decision, I made a pro
and con list that juggled the good and the bad
of staying put. It didnt surprise me when the
con list was more exhaustive than I would have
expected: I was stuck in a very toxic group of
peers that hurt my self esteem and my school
made me feel like I was trapped in a dungeon.
Despite being in a sea of peers, I felt alone. With
this in mind, I felt that the only logical choice I
had was to switch schools.
After I made up my mind,
the next step was convincing
my parents. This was hard my
grades were actually really good
at the original school. Also, high
school only lasts three years and
this one was a five- minute walk
from my house. In the end, the
choice to change was a personal
one, something I had to prove to
myself. I would later realize that it wasnt just
the actual choice that put my emotions at ease,
it was also the freedom that came from switching schools. I needed to rule out if my environment was causing this agony in my emotions,
or something else. That being said, I was taking
quite a huge risk. The high school that was
causing me so much trouble was the same one
both of my elder siblings went to, and graduated
from back when they were my age. Additionally,
this school had a good track record of producing
honours students. I suppose part of the reason
I was so adamant on changing schools, once I
had made up my mind, was that Id had good
grades my whole life, but never had any feeling
of companionship from my peers. That feeling
was just so overwhelming that I thought no
matter where I went my grades would stay high.
Thus, the pain of staying became stronger than
the pain of uncertainty.
Initially, changing schools made me feel
nervous. What if the new school I picked was

just as bad as this one? What if my grades ended


up falling? How would I adjust to taking the bus
every day when Ive only been driven or walked
to school my whole life? The concerns were endless. But that didnt stop me from visiting open
houses and appealing my case to my family. The
most difficult person to convince was undoubtedly my father. My dad is a first-generation
immigrant who experienced wars and was concerned with making a living his whole life. He
was pretty unfamiliar with the tribulations and
concerns of a typical high school teenager. That
said, my situation was far from typical, and concerns about my mental health were peppered
throughout my appeal to him. Though I had to
fight my father every step of the way, he finally
caved in, seeing just how much I was willing to
fight. Plus, taking the hour-and-a-half bus ride to

check out open houses and send in the application for a new school. Having a deadline helped.
Setting a time limit is also helpful for smaller
decisions, such as what to wear in the morning.
Try picking your outfit the night before, using
an egg timer.
Pros and cons: Sometimes all it takes are
two columns on a sheet of paper. Writing out
the positives and negatives and seeing them
visually will help you get a sense of how your
choice may affect you.
Accept that you cant have it all: Switching
schools for me meant closing the door on the
possibility that things would get better at my
current school. But Miller recommends letting
the past go. Decisions force us to close the door
on other possibilities. Live in the present, he
suggests, where choices today will make a difference in the future.
More thinking is not always
better thinking: Miller says that
research can reach a point of diminishing returns, becoming more confusing than clarifying. Good decisions
can be based as much on intuition as
on assessment. Likewise, the agony
of choice can be almost addicting.
Instead of obsessing over past wrongs
and possible missteps, become a
compassionate and curious detective whose job
isnt to judge the choice. Instead, learn about
yourself and find the good in all of your choices.
Trust your intuition: Intuition is an impression; it can be an important source of information you dont fully understand. Just be wary of
confusing it with impulsiveness an emotional
need within a particular moment.
Just make a choice: Pay attention to the new
reality and see what is working, what isnt, and
then make a new choice based on this new
information. Dont judge the choice or yourself.
The most helpful aspect is learning, and then
taking that knowledge to create better future
decisions.
Some decisions dont work out as expected;
that doesnt mean you did anything wrong.
Even after making all the right decisions, sometimes the unexpected happens. It does you no
favours to blame yourself for what happened.
You couldnt have known then what you know
now, so dont be hard on yourself.

Now I get kind of nostalgic, thinking


back at that choice to change
schools. And I realize that the
primary cause of agony in decisionmaking is due to one word: anxiety.

GRIPMagazine

the other side of town for an open house didnt


hurt my argument either.
Now I get kind of nostalgic, thinking back at
that choice to change schools. And I realize that
the primary cause of agony in decision-making
is due to one word: anxiety.
According to Matthew Miller, a family counsellor with Alberta Health Services, agonizing
over decisions can often lead to a lengthy and
painful struggle.
Often, our anxiety alarm will sound if we feel
threatened, unsure, or insecure, he says. To
some, even the knowledge that they have the
power to choose and decide for themselves on
their own is alarming and anxiety provoking
due to their internal dialogue of being, and feeling, alone, uncertain, and insecure.
So what can we do to conquer this anxiety?
Miller recommends a few tips:
Set a time limit or create a to-do list with
an end date: I had until April to not only
convince my parents of my switch, but to also

Everything
You Need
to Know
About
Mindfulness
By Irtiza Oyon
Mindfulness seems like such a simple concept that we tend to
pass right over it. How can deep breathing improve our lives, anyways?
Well, it turns out that practising mindfulness daily can help you with anything from eating healthier to managing conditions like anxiety. Grip spoke
with Kaitlin Niksic, a health promotion coordinator at Alberta Health
Services, about how to make mindfulness work within your lifestyle.
What is mindfulness?
Kaitlin: I believe mindfulness is a way of being, where youre fully in the
present moment. This means that you are aware, moment to moment, of
your thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations and surrounding environment.
What are some benefits to being mindful?
Mindfulness can benefit everything from remembering where our house
keys are to reducing or even preventing anxiety, depression, addiction
and sleeping disorders. For me, the biggest benefit has been an increase
in happiness and a greater feeling of contentment.
What situations is mindfulness useful in?
Mindfulness can be used during difficult conversations to be in-tune
with our emotions. When you feel frustrated, mindfulness can help you
pay attention to your thoughts and emotions without judging them. This
can help you to look at the situation without seeing a right or wrong
way to think or feel in a given moment. Using mindfulness can help
you to understand and communicate better. Another great example is
when taking exams. Mindful deep breathing can help you stay calm and
focused on the questions. Mindfulness is also a great way to simply taking a break from thinking and instead just be.

How can you practise mindfulness successfully?


As with anything, start small and do what works for you. If I feel I am getting distracted, I use visualization to bring me back to the present moment.
I have a printed photo of a beach in my office, my car and my home. This
beach picture helps me practise often I look at the photo and take 10
seconds to breathe deeply while imagining that I am on that beach. Once
I become calm, I can think more clearly, become more present and better
focus at whatever I am doing.
Also, try to multitask less. There is a Zen proverb that says: When walking, walk. When eating, eat.
The mind never sits still so being aware of and alright with that is important. The goal is not to clear the mind, but to focus on one thing at a time.

Here are some ways you can practise


mindfulness:
Take a mindful minute to observe your breath, inhaling and exhaling
for five seconds each. Let your thoughts pass by and try not to react, but
simply be aware.
When you are with others, really focus on what they are saying to you
instead of what you are thinking. If your mind starts to wander, bring it
back to the conversation.
Turn off technology to help stay in the present moment.
Practise mindful eating. Eat slowly and enjoy each bite, paying attention
to the taste and texture of your food.
When doing an activity, observe the sensations around you to help keep
you in the present moment.

GRIPMagazine

21

22

Be the

Change
T

errorism. Climate change. Economic downturn. Natural disasters.


Spend five minutes watching the news and it might seem like our world is in a hopeless state of disrepair. Just flipping through channels can feel overwhelming. But take
heart! While there are a lot of problems plaguing us, we can choose to take simple steps every
day to make a positive difference. One small act of kindness, like holding a door open for
someone or sharing an encouraging word with a friend who is struggling, counts. You do not
have to be Mother Teresa to improve the world, nor do you need to have a full piggy bank. All
you need is the willingness to try something new to generate positive change. Need a little
inspiration, or a couple of ideas to get started? Check out this list of twenty simple actions
that you can take today:

Show you care by what you wear. Wear a rosy t-shirt on Pink Shirt Day to
stand up to bullying, or sport a wristband to support your favourite cause.
Invite the guy or girl who sits alone at lunch to join you and your friends.
Celebrate a day on social media. For example, if youre a budding
environmentalist, celebrate Earth Day by posting a picture, using a hashtag or
sending a tweet about environmental issues on April 22.
Send a thank-you note to someone who deserves it.
Make your voice heard by signing an electronic petition on www.change.org.
Take the time to actually listen to a person who needs someone to talk to.
Your genuine support could save a life.
Boycott a product if its produced in a way that clashes with what you believe
is important. If you love animals, then do not buy makeup that uses animal
testing, and opt for cruelty-free cosmetics instead.
Pick up a piece of litter when you see some on the street.
Visit a click-to-give website like www.greatergood.com. When you click
a button on these websites, the page of advertisements you see funds the
charities the websites support. Its a completely free way to fund donations to
causes you care about.

GRIPMagazine

By Christine Green

Feeling overwhelmed by doom-and-gloom scenarios?


Follow some of our suggestions to make a positive
impact on the world around you

Order fair trade tea, coffee or hot chocolate when you buy your
next hot drink.
Ignore a hurtful post on social media, or report it if necessary,
instead of sharing it and spreading gossip and cruel messages.
Write short but encouraging messages on sticky notes and stick
them on lockers at school, on bathroom mirrors or other places.
If you have a relationship that requires repair, apologize or take
steps to make amends. Doing this can show that you are willing to
forgive what happened and you may even regain a friendship.
Buy something extra to give away to someone. If you are buying a
snack, why not buy another and give it to a friend or someone you
pass by?
Bring a reusable bag along with you when you shop to avoid using
a disposable plastic bag.
Give up your seat on the bus to a person who needs it.
Offer your skills and a bit of your time to tutor or coach someone
for free. Maybe you are a math whiz and can help your younger
brother with his homework, or show your friends little sister how
to perfect her soccer skills.
Call a family member just to say hi and ask how they are doing.
Even a quick chat shows you care about them and can brighten
their day.
Bake something delicious and give it to a family in need, or anyone
else who could use a sweet reminder that they are not alone.
Encourage others to engage in acts of kindness too, and start a
chain reaction for positive change!

GRIPMagazine

23

24

How do you know


when its time to
tell a secret?
By Jasmine Blackett

GRIPMagazine

e all carry secrets in life some are our


own, and others are bestowed upon us.
Knowing when to keep them, and when
to tell them, is the tricky thing. This is something I
have first-hand experience in: when I was in the ninth
grade, I met a boy and I fell in love. I felt like he was my
other half, but he also had his demons. He confided in
me about his depression, suicide attempts and selfharm. In one month, he made three suicide attempts
and I woke up to the same text messages each time:
Im sorry. I love you. Goodbye.
If theres any situation in which you should tell a
secret, its this. In fact, the secret of his depression
became my own secret, by default. I could not bring
myself to tell my parents or an adult about the situation at hand. This was because I had already told a
friends secret in the past I confided in my mom that
my friend was suffering from depression, and when
my mom told the school counsellor, I lost my friend. I
didnt want to lose my boyfriend, too. Being abused
in any way, shape or form is
not something that should be
kept a secret. I had threatened
to tell his parents numerous
times about his depression, but
he claimed that he had already
talked to them on numerous
occasions and I didnt feel comfortable enough to
approach them about such a touchy subject. Although
it was a secret I should have told them, to this day I
dont really know if his parents know.
But that summer, I could no longer deal with the burden placed on me; I was exhausted and afraid that he
was going to try to self-harm again. So I decided to tell
my mom and my friends mom, who is a psychologist.
Dr. Brian Zelt, a registered psychologist who works
at Calgarys Hull Services, says, the secret to big
secrets is generally to never ever, ever, ever promise
someone that you will keep a secret without first saying: I will not keep a big secret where your safety or
the safety of others is impacted or knowing something
significant that places me in a very difficult situation.
I will also not keep a secret when I think that an adult
could ultimately support you in getting the help that
you need. Placing a limit around the secrets that you
keep does not make you a bad friend; rather it makes
you a very genuine, caring and concerned friend.

Thats easier said than done. After I talked to my


mom and my friends mom, it all began to sink in. You
could say that I made the wrong choice by keeping so
many secrets, both his and my own. Maybe I could
have avoided a lot of the trauma that I still deal with,
had I told someone what had been going on in our relationship or if one of my friends had told my mom what
was going on. In the case of one of my closest friends,
Skye, she didnt know what to do either. I knew how
much you loved him and because of personal issues
and past relationships, I really didnt understand how
unhealthy it was, she recently told me, I always
thought it should be you to speak out, I didnt want to
overstep any boundaries we had in our relationship.
This is a perfect example as to why so many people do
not share the secrets that they should.
Secrets come in both big and small packages. Often,
people cannot handle their burdens alone, and they
are reaching out to you for help. Its a reality that the
person who has confided in you may become angry or

You are there to support your friends no


matter what, but you must be able to
stand your ground and draw the line.
upset with you for sharing their secret, but as Dr. Zelt
puts it, we hold our ground. We remind them that we
have always been there for them and will continue to
however disappointed they are right now. You have
to realize that their overall safety and well-being is
more important in these kinds of situations. You are
there to support your friends no matter what, but you
must be able to stand your ground and draw the line.
Whether it be a secret of your friends or your own,
you must be able to take a step, look at the bigger picture and ask: Will this secret cause more harm than
good? It may be terrifying to open up about such
personal things, but the pay off in the end is so much
better and you could save a life even your own.
HELP AT HAND
Hull Services helps children and their families who
experience significant mental health, behavioural
and developmental challenges. If you are in need of
assistance, visit hullservices.ca

GRIPMagazine

25

26

How to Pr
Theres no point making a pro and con list if
you dont do it effectively. Here are some tips for
making your list the best it can be
By Lyndsie Bourgon

Choice
#1
Choice
#2

Be sure to include
both choices on the
same page

GRIPMagazine

PRO
Keep it short!
Write it down - our brains
have a way of internalizing
stressors. Writing helps!

Keep the list somewhere you


can easily see it
Leave your list for 72 hours,
then revisit your feelings

ro & Con
CON
Make sure your expectations are realistic
Dont rush the process
Assess your pros and cons by rating them
1-10

Uncertain?
Not all outcomes can be
predicted - list these
in their own column

Solicit feedback from others after


you make the list, not before
Weigh your pros and cons by using
math. Multiply the important pros
by 10, and the least important by 5.
What side wins?

GRIPMagazine

27

28

Whats Stop
Sometimes being
daring and bold is right.
How do you draw the line
between smart risk
and stupid risk?
By Sandy Xin Xu

n August 2014, I stepped off the plane


for the first time on European soil with my
oversized backpack in one hand and a map
of Londons Underground train system in the other.
Travelling to a foreign continent was both invigorating and nerve-wracking especially because
my plan was to cover seven European cities in 16
days. Despite being questioned by skeptical family
and friends for three months, backpacking across
Europe finally became a reality.
It seemed like an easy choice but for months I
evaluated the risks inherent in going. I weighed
what it meant to travel with two girls in their
early 20s to five foreign countries. The culture
shock and language barrier faced in nonEnglish speaking countries, along with the
idea of arranging transportation between cities
conjured a lot of angst. All of it was shrouded in
risk what if something went wrong?
Were biologically programmed to avoid injury and death. Taking risks could overturn all the
years weve invested: it could end relationships
or form new ones, or it could change the course
of your life. As a teenager, risks denote excitement, and experimentation is an essential
ingredient of youth culture. While some risks
are inherently harmful, others can be powerful
lessons and rewarding experiences. So how do
we know what risks to take? Grip asked Jessie De Castro, a health care professional from
Alberta Health Services, for her advice:
GRIPMagazine

pping You?
What are some ways that I can learn to
balance possible risks?
When we talk about risk at the AHS, we talk
about smart risk. Smart risk recognizes
that risk taking is a necessary part of learning
and gaining confidence in life, and respects
your right to make your own decisions. But
injuries are predictable and preventable and
your choices can determine whether the risks
you take result in injury. An important concept of smart risk is the stupid line. This
is the line of choice that separates smart risk
from stupid risk. The line is different for each
person, depending on your experience and
confidence with an activity, the law, social
norms and the environment. Really, only you
can define your stupid line.
Are there any guiding rules for good
risks and bad risks?
Yes! Each smart risk comes with a strategy
that you can use in a variety of contexts.
Look first before doing any activity. Stop,
think and check out the situation.
Wear the gear, like a helmet, knee and elbow pads or
proper footwear and clothing.
For example, always put on a
helmet and buckle it up before
getting on your bike.
Get trained. If there is training available
for an activity, get it! Learn from the experts.
For example, take a drivers education
course before attempting to take your drivers exam.
Buckle up. Always wear your seatbelt, no
matter how short the ride. Its the law.
Drive sober. Never drink or take any drugs
before driving. Not only is it very risky, its
against Alberta Graduated Driver Licensing
(GDL) law.

Aside from physical harm, what kinds


of risks should I consider?
Mental health and wellness is an important
part of being safe. School, challenges in relationships with family and friends, anxiety
over dating and sex are just examples of the
kinds of things that you might be facing.
Sometimes, if you try and meet these challenges alone, you can put your mental health
and safety at risk.
This brings us to the last smart risk
message: seek help. Look for support when
you or someone you know needs it. Lifes
issues and challenges can seem overwhelming if you try to face them alone. Its okay to
ask for help.
Why are teens so vulnerable to risk?
A lot of this has to do with brain development. Brains develop from back to front and
the part of your brain in charge of judgment,
planning and decision-making is at the very
front. This is called the pre-frontal cortex.
You may be physically capable of a risky

older, risks to your physical and mental safety


will continue to be present. Some of these
risks might be even more challenging. For
example, when you are 18, it will be legal
for you to drink, so you will have to be very
aware of your personal limit in order to avoid
getting sick or hurt.
Always remember that injuries are predictable and preventable, so stay safe by continuing to define your own stupid line.
So how should we draw the line between
smart risk and stupid risk? Smart risks are
ones where personal harm (physical and psychological) is kept to a minimum and allows
an individual to experiment in an environment that facilitates growth challenging
the status quo in a way that expands our limits. Psychologists call the balance between
perceived challenges to ones own perceived
skills as the flow state, where high life satisfaction may be achieved. Similarly, we should
seek to expand our capabilities while assessing the harms judiciously.
According to Daniel Kahneman, who
wrote the book Thinking, Fast and Slow,
human beings are
terrible at calculating
risk in the 21st Century.
Often, we over-estimate
the likelihood of losses over gains, allowing
our brains to amplify the consequences of
loss over the potential gains. But what we
havent addressed is our incredible versatility
in adapting to change. Underestimating our
own abilities or allowing one past mistake to
define your present are the reasons we accept
the status quo and fail to find true fulfillment
in our lives. By following the smart risk
approach, we can minimize harms and rise
to meet new challenges and opportunities.

People are terrible at calculating risk in


the 21st Century. Often, we over-estimate
the likelihood of losses over gains.
activity but because this part of the brain is
still developing, you may not be intellectually
capable of making the safest decisions when
doing it.
This is why it is so important to keep
smart risk at the front of your mind when
making decisions involving risk!
What should I know about risk as I
get older and head into university?
Risk will always be a part of life. As you get

GRIPMagazine

29

30

Making the
Grip contributors through the
years give you some advice on
the big jump from high school
to The Real World

One extremely important habit I needed


to get into was organizing my week:
planning my homework on a
giant calendar as I go through
the week helped keep my stress
levels down and helped me get my
papers in on time. Meesha Wittkopf

While
be ta
I felt
king
like
mos
I sho
a ful
t of t
l cou
uld
he o
only t
rse l
t
wo co
her s
oad
urses
huge
tude
like
at
co
n
a majo urse load in first. I am s ts, I decid
ed to
o glad
r adju
my fir
take
stme
I didn
st yea
gettin
nt fro
t tak
r, bec
g use
m
e
a
d
o
h
u
na
ig
t
s
o
e its
emot
h sch
unive
defin
ional
ool to
rsity li
it
e
e
u
n
ly
f
n
e
e
iv
rgy. B
takes
haven
y hav
up a lo ersity. Jus
t bee
ing a
t
t of tim
n sev
li
g
erely
enjoy
hter c
e and
stress
ed m
o
u
r
se loa
y first
ed ou
d, I
t and
year o
have
Chr
verall
istine
.
Green

ng
strivi
dents
u
t
o do a
s
t
nce
day
e
i
a
c
r
s
u
ou
uch
n ho
For y
ow m
ake a
h
t
,
r
e
+
t
th
t
A
ma
r wi
for an
hou
et. No
s
n
a
m
proble one, just ons can
ti
.
et d
trac
habit
you g
r dis
itive
e
s
o
h
t
p
a
no o
it into
form
trans
n
n Tra
Eva

GRIPMagazine

Leap
sity taught
ar of univer
for a
My first ye
ch you plan
ter how mu
at
m
) there is
o
n
ke
ta
at
me th
u want to
yo
e
re
uve
eg
d
ke what
the way yo
life event (li
nt happen
o
w
it
lly
at
a
th
likelihood
m I origin
e progra
always the
ar
th
to
is
in
ience th ye
didnt go
azing exper
am
ise.
planned. I
an
w
er
ad
th
h
e met o
to, but Ive
ight not hav
m
wanted
ges
I
o
an
h
w
ch
le
et peop
last-minute
and have m
be open to
to
n
ar
le
is to
My advice
ur plans.
mps in yo
u
b
r
o
urnier
Louise Fo

h school a year
I graduated from hig
n of saving up to
early, with the intentio
n go to university.
travel Europe and the
impulse
Instead, I made an
to China for
e
ov
m
to
decision
ugh it was an
four months. Altho
it definitely threw
amazing opportunity,
I never made it to
a wrench in my plans.
moved out on my
Europe, and instead
rs. I didnt decide
own for a couple of yea
dy in university for
what I wanted to stu
once I did, I felt
two whole years, but
ion. If you feel
so secure in that decis
ing going into post
indecisive or are dread
it! Take time and
secondary, dont rush
first. Jay Lewis
get to know yourself

Deciding on the right high school is


the biggest decision Ive been faced
with to date. I find its easier if
you think only about what
you want Im looking for a
school that has good academics
and athletics. I am also considering
the distance from my house, and
the transportation options to get
to and from school. Although my
friends are important, Im careful
not to let their opinions distract me
from my choice. Priya Croft

I wa
s ac
surp
rised tually
free s
a
uppo t all of th
e
offer
r
t
m
y un
s,
ivers
acad like coun
ity
emic
selin
g,
supp
supp
ort, c
ort, s
are
up
with
disab port for s er
tude
ilities
just f
nt
un e
vent and even s
you
s for
are
s
tude
pay
univ
nts
ing
ersi
to a . If
t
y
to ta
tten
, it m
d
ke a
ake
dva
serv
ntag s sense
ices
eo
th
Ch
ristin ey offe f the
r.
e Gre
en

Im in m
y secon
d year o
had to m
f univers
ake a lo
ity now
t
of choic
and Ive
or not
es, inclu
I wan
ding w
t
e
d to d
the cho
hethe
rop a c
ice to se
r
lass . I
e an adv
right dir
made
is
or to pu
ection, a
sh me in
nd in th
through
the
e end de
the clas
c
id
ed to sti
s
a
nd ende
higher g
ck
d up pa
rade tha
ssing w
n I thou
ith a
ght. C
atherine
Lieu

ber
e Cham
ic r and th
e
tt
o
P
ur cho
y
o
In Harr
It is
s
y
, far
a
s
e
r
re
truly a
mbledo
u
e
D
g,
w
ts
t
from Ho
wha
of Secre
ty away
show
li
t
a
e: Its
a
re
ic
h
r
v
t
u
d
rry,
great a
s. In o
ll
e
i
ti
t
s
t
i
es, Ha
l
s
i
its wha
evil, it
ur ab
you are;
ood and
n
than o
g
o
n
e
rs
,
e
r
e
e
o
rs
p
e
m
d of
lp oth
ttle betw
what kin
er to he
d the ba
t shows
volunte
a
n
a
th
warts an
c
o
le
e
d
tt
n
n
, anyo
is the li
t you ca
do it? It
example
r
not wha
to
o
d
F
e
n
.
a
o
m
the ti
rowd
ose to d
m the c
ally take
o
fr
you cho
tu
c
rt
a
a
y
p
a
man
t us
a Sirajee
but how
e that se
Reshm
we mak
.
s
ty
e
li
ic
a
o
n
h
c
ur perso
shape o

GRIPMagazine

31

32

The Grass

How better decision making skills can


help you avoid looking back with regret
By Luna Yang

GRIPMagazine

is Greener
I

t tastes a bit bitter. Or maybe


sour, like a lemon. No matter what,
regret leaves an unpleasant taste in our
mouths were so intent on avoiding it
that we might not make a choice at all.
What is it that were so afraid of? Sure, it can
be hard to universalize such a complex feeling,
but theres a rather morbid scenario that people
contemplate, and as with most morbid scenarios,
it revolves around death and unfinished business.
The scenario goes youre on your death bed,
surrounded by your loved ones, but you cant
find peace as memories of things that you should
have done, and chances that you didnt take, flash
through your mind. It might take form in people
you didnt spend enough time with, places you
did not travel to or opportunities that you missed.
The story kind of ends there because you
would probably die next. Sorry.
Its a bleak example, but its how we consider
regret in a nutshell. As depressing as it may seem,
regret is something that were all familiar with, and
therefore should be something that we accept and
learn to deal with. Instead of always fearing the
regret that might come after large, life-changing
decisions (Where should I go to school? What do
I want to study?), regret is a part of everyday life

and we should treat it as such. According to Dr.


Brian Zelt, a registered psychologist in Calgary,
regret is an emotional state, typically associated
with feelings of sadness or disappointment, when
[someone] judges the outcome of their decision to
be a loss or missed opportunity.

Making decisions
each day is essential
to becoming an
effective adult, as
it allows us to trust
ourselves.
Due to these negative connotations, most
people avoid regret by avoiding decision making
altogether. As Dr. Zelt says, we use coping mechanisms like procrastination and avoidance rather
than making a wrong decision and regretting it.
But he adds that not taking action can result in an
uninformed choice, or even no choice whatsoever.
So while these mechanisms help us, albeit artificially, deal with the fear of regret in the short term,
they end up harming us in the long term. In the
end, its better to regret something that you did
than wish youd done something you chose not to.

As a general rule of thumb, Dr. Zelt agrees that


its better to make a decision than none at all. But
in order to successfully make correct decisions,
its important to consider an issue from all angles.
For the most part, we all have the ability to choose
what we want. Though free will can be daunting
at times, in the end its only us who can make
those big decisions. Admittedly, its always helpful to listen to the advice of other people, but the
decision-making power lies solely with us. Making decisions and choices, even small ones each
day, Dr. Zelt says, are essential to becoming an
effective adult, as it allows us to trust ourselves.
But how do you make an effective decision?
Its smart to consult with family, friends and the
people that have your best interests in mind.
Dr. Zelt also stresses the importance of researching the topic beforehand. Planning on quitting
school in order to pursue a tap dancing career?
Better make sure you know the tap dancing
industry a bit. There are many ways to make an
intelligent decision, like writing down a pros and
cons list about what you have on your mind. And
at the heart of it all, you have to consider: whats
the worst that could happen? Just keep in mind:
regret is a part of life, and should not be feared.
Hopefully, with Dr. Zelts advice, it wont be.

GRIPMagazine

33

34

She Said
Two Grip writers debate the
real meaning behind selfies.
Are our selfies truly a
reflection of ourselves?
By Sandy Xin Xu
HER OPINION: YES.
Its more than just your average pop
culture trend. The Oxford English Dictionary
declared selfie word of the year in 2013, and
defined it as a photograph that one has taken
of oneself. And in a survey conducted by Samsung, 30 per cent of users said their phones
photo albums were packed with those notorious
and misunderstood photos. If so many people
take them, why are we engaging in this debate?
Critics say selfies are a product of narcissism
and egomania. They bemoan the hours a person
might spend capturing his or her most desirable
face for the world. But isnt that the focal point
of the 21st century? We micromanage our Facebook profiles to project the ideal version of ourselves. We monitor the
I believe that we should status of our LinkedIn
give some credit to selfies pages and resumes
for putting control over so they scream: Im
our public image back in competent and a
our hands. workaholic to future
employers. Whether
we like it or not, impression management is the
passport to living in a society engulfed by social
media, and selfies are simply another byproduct
of our desire to connect with others.

GRIPMagazine

I believe that we should give some credit to


selfies for putting control over our public image
back in our hands. In a way, they encourage us to
make mistakes and to experiment with the lens
in a way that best defines us.
Finally, what selfies are to us today is what
avatars were for MSN and MySpace users they
broadcast your current state of mind. Assuming
that most selfie-takers upload their ideal portraits
on a social media platform, our photos share a
story and allow us to document a moment of our
lives. Perhaps selfies are simply the fastest, most
convenient way to add a time-stamp to our lives.
Theres a reason why everyone from the President
of the United States to Ellen Degeneres have
been part of the selfie movement, portraying
themselves in a uniquely personalized light that
no photographer could possibly capture.
Selfies have become a crucial aspect of identity formation for Generation Y. Seeing ourselves
in a positive light is the first step towards improving our self-esteem rather than destroying it. As
long as preoccupation with selfies doesnt interfere with our social and mental well-being, then
a little narcissism shouldnt be a crime. After all,
who could resist that adorable duck face, you
cutie pie.

She Said
Do selfies make
you look cool
or the fool?
By Taylor Masters
HER OPINION: NO.
In todays society, we are bombarded
with images of the statuesque woman who
has it all or the ripped man with hordes of
women chasing after him. We know that these
standards are unattainable, and yet we still
strive to reach that level of perfection. Selfies
are just the newest way of trying to achieve
impossible standards. At their worst, they
can act as a gateway to eating disorders and
self-esteem issues. Its hard to be a teenager in
an age of social media, when nothing online is
really a secret. We share some of our innermost
thoughts online as a way to vent our feelings
and emotions. We fool ourselves into thinking
that since we cannot see the faces of those on
the other side, they dont really exist.
Through the power of the share button and
liking, people that you dont know can comment on how you look in that selfie. By turning
the camera inward, we open ourselves up to the
scrutiny of faceless strangers, making us even
more self-conscious about how we are seen. I
think that selfies enforce an egotistical point
of view that whats on the outside matters a lot
more than what is on the inside.
In my experience, posting selfies rarely

reassures us that we are, in fact, beautiful and


just reinforces a deterioration of our selfesteem. Its easy to look at ourselves and
think, Thats ugly, but well still post photos
on Facebook or Instagram that end up being
bombarded with some truly horrible comments
that serve to reinforce our worst thoughts. Sure,
there are those who turn their selfies into a joke
and make funny faces, but thats only so that
they dont have to deal seriously with comments that might follow.
Unfortunately, no matter how much we may
disagree, our life is dictated by how we look and
what the world thinks about us. Selfies serve
to feed or kill our ego: we might not feel happy
unless our selfie on the
Selfies serve to feed or kill
beach has 348 likes.
our ego: we might not feel
They feed into of this
happy unless our selfie on
way of thinking: we
the beach has 348 likes.
bare our souls online to
the world and are either
celebrated or torn to shreds in response. I am a
firm believer that we can rise beyond this vision
of ourselves and turn the camera to the front
once more. We need to look at the world around
us as opposed to only being focused on our hair
and our faces.

GRIPMagazine

35

36

Just for

Today
Robb Nashs message of strength strikes a chord
By Chantelle Foisie

hen Robb Nash was a teenager,


he experienced a life-changing
accident. Driving in a car with
his friends, a huge semi-truck
suddenly veered into their path, heading
straight towards them. The semi-truck
hit the car, and Robb was pushed out of
the back when the trunk flew off. When
the paramedics arrived on site, Robb was
declared dead. He showed no signs of life,
and the hospital had already made the call to
his parents, telling them the horrific news.
But he wasnt. Miraculously, Nashs lifeline
came back. He was in a coma for weeks,
and he showed little hope of recovering.
Eventually he recovered, though not without

GRIPMagazine

Im
Im not
not someone
someone who
who hasn't
hasn't made
made
mistakes,
Im
someone
willing
mistakes, Im someone willing to
to
start
over.
start over.

a titanium
plate in his
head and chest.
Now, Nash makes
music. Maybe youve
heard of him: he travels
the countr y speaking and
performing, inspiring teenagers
to overcome their str uggles. He
continuously tells his personal story,
hoping to get through to teenagers that life
is something worth living. So far, he has
spread his message to one million students.
After the accident, Nash struggled for
years trying to find his purpose in life.

Eventually,
he came to
realize that there
wasnt a reason why he
was hit. It was a coincidence,
not the world trying to punish
him. After struggling with his anger
and depression, Nash decided he wanted
to help others, so that they dont have to get
hit by a semi-truck to start making better
choices in their lives. Dont wait until youre
dying to start living, he says. He believes he
is lucky to get a second chance. He lives by
the words: Make today count.
Nash travels with his talented drummer,
Jonny Holliday, and a promotional team
throughout Alberta. His message has
struck a chord; he has received hundreds
of suicide notes and countless razor blades
sent by students who have been inspired
to reach out for help or made the choice to
stay alive, stop using drugs and alcohol, stop
self-harming and to make today count. Im
not someone who hasnt made mistakes, Im
someone willing to start over, he says.

I was so
in s p i r e d b y
Nashs message
that I decided to get
a tattoo on my left arm in
August 2014. That was the arm
where I had been self-harming for
years, and I made the promise never to
make a cut there again. I was also suicidal
at the time, but when I heard Nash talk and
sing, I wanted to stay alive for just a little
bit longer. My tattoo says Just for Today
and the words are from Nashs song, Thief
of Colours (my favourite one of his). The
impact he made on me was so huge that
I decided to start getting help for my own
mental health problems. I am happy to say
that I kept my promise and scars are fading
on that arm. If youre looking for pain today,
youll find it, Nash says. But if youre
looking for strength, youll find that too!
Nash and his crew work hard to convince
teenagers to keep moving forward and
that life does get better. He has been
recognized by many people for the work
that he has done with youth. Through his
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other
social media accounts, he keeps in contact
with all his fans, and has a great team of
people following and supporting him in his
travels. Nash will continue to travel across
Canada to spread his message and music
to thousands more young people. There is
a purpose to live and there is enjoyment in
life. Heres to the things that I wouldnt
have seen, if I didnt keep walking, he says.
Make today count!

GRIPMagazine

37

photography by buffy goodman

38

GRIPMagazine

This is

Zander

Hartman
By Lyndsie Bourgon

He helped lobby the provincial


government to pass Bill 10,
making schools a more inclusive
place for everyone

n April 17, 2014, Zander Hartman


found himself standing in front of a
group of politicians and he knew it
was his moment.
A few years earlier, Zander had been living
in the small town of Edson, just outside of
Edmonton. He identifies as a pansexual, polyamorous trans boy, and when he approached
the principal of his school about starting a gaystraight alliance (GSA), the principal immediately shut him down. There was a constant,
looming presence of homophobia and transphobia within my school and town, Zander
told the group of politicians. LBGTQ kids
didnt have a voice, or any support. We had no
resources, no one to turn to.
GRIPMagazine

39

photography by buffy goodman

40 Thisis
Zander Hartman

GRIPMagazine

When Zander first moved to Edmonton


in January 2013, he attended a meeting of Ross
Sheppard High Schools GSA something he
never would have been able to do in Edson. I
was really anxious about moving to the big city, it
was terrifying at first, says Zander.
From the beginning, Zander was very
involved in what was going on in relation to the
GSA, says Treena Gallant-Plouffe, the schools
teacher representative at the GSA. She holds
meetings twice a week in her classroom. At the
time, Zander was a very quiet soul, but we came
to the point where we needed a leader, someone
to guide the group,she says. It was very obvious
it would be Zander.
This might be because Zander seems to be
friends with everyone he has avoided cliques
and talks to everyone who attends the groups
lunchtime meetings. Often, Zander is the person
that Gallant-Plouffe turns to when she needs to
organize the creation of posters, buttons or handouts. Over time, as Zander settled into the school,
Gallant-Plouffe says she noticed him growing as a
person in many ways. He is so much stronger in
who he is and how he leads, she says.
In April 2014, Liberal MLA Kent Hehr proposed
Motion 503 at the Alberta legislature. The motion
would have made it mandatory for school boards
in the province to support students that wished to
start a GSA in their school.
Motion 503 was eventually rejected, and soon
afterwards Zander attended Edmontons GSA
roundtable, a monthly meeting where all the
GSAs in the city meet up, usually at the downtown library or at the University of Alberta. This
is where Zander gave his powerful speech to the
politicians in the room. They came to try and tell
us about their reasons for turning down the bill,
says Zander. I was prepared to tell them what I
thought.
That April day Zander listed off to the group
those who had voted against it nine Wildrose
MLAs and 22 PC MLAs, including the minister of
education at the time. I will remember this when
I come of legal age to vote, Zander told the group,
which included Danielle Smith, then-leader of the
Wildrose. When I moved to Edmonton, I realized
that things dont need to be like that. You cant
just sit back and accept discrimination.
It was a bold statement. Afterward, Zander
was asked to speak at the legislative building
along with two other people and was featured
on Global and CTV. I felt that if I spoke here and

someone listened, there might be some change


that I could initiate and move towards.
This was just the first step for Zander and lots
of other politicians, activists and school workers
in the province when it came to GSA activism
over the past year. In December 2014, the introduction of Bill 10 brought debate right back to the
forefront, and with it lots of confusion and misinformation. At first, the bill gave school boards the
authority to decide if a school could have a GSA
if a student requested the bill was controversial
because it fell between the rights of gay students
and the right of parents to be informed that their
children were participating in a GSA. Parents
would then have the right to ask that their children be removed from the room or other activities
where topics like sexual orientation might be
discussed.

If you can make a


positive change,
why would you
choose not to?
Even though it had some high profile detractors, after three months of amendments and
consultations with people like Zander, Bill 10 was
passed in the legislature. Zanders actions with
Bill 10 were all his own, says Gallant-Plouffe. No
one had to give him information or nudge him to

take a stand he did it all on his own. I am very


proud that Zander had enough personal strength
to rally for what he believes in, even when that
means going up against politicians.
For now, its business as usual for him.
Zander is about to graduate from Ross Sheppard
and continues to be president of the schools
GSA. At meetings we go around the table and
ask how everyones week is. We recently went to
Dairy Queen on their free ice cream day, he says.
Soon, Zander will be making plans for the future
with more than 300 books in his room, hes
planning to take a year of general studies before
possibly going into communications.
Teens should take away two things from
Zander, says Gallant-Plouffe: The first is to be
who you are. The second is to stand up for what
you believe in, even if its scary. Change only happens when we are true to ourselves.
Zander knows that his work has really just
begun. Bill 10 was passed but it doesnt mean
everyone has a GSA, he says. Theres a kid
thats homeschooled who got in touch with me
over Instagram, looking for a community. He has
also learned lots about the political process both
good and bad, and he is now involved in activism
surrounding having more gender-inclusive bathrooms in schools and public places.
It made me think that this is a process that I
could be involved with, says Zander. Lots of people are wary of getting involved because they think
its complicated, and it is. But if you can make a
positive change, why would you choose not to?

HOW TO START A GSA


A GSA is just like any other club in your school, and your student handbook or district policy
should outline how to obtain permission for your group to get up and running.
Find a GSA advisor. This can be a teacher, administrator or staff member that can act as a
supportive ally. Your advisor is who youll turn to for advice and help planning events.
Let your school guidance counsellor know that youre starting the group. They can
inform other students who might benefit from the support and guidance of a GSA.
Develop your mission statement: What do you hope the GSA can bring to your school?
Find a safe meeting space in your school. This will probably be inside, but Zanders
group likes to meet outside when the weather is nice.
Advertise your group and welcome new members! Have a poster party to design flyers
that have a positive tone and which state meeting dates, times and places.
Hold your first meeting. During the meeting, establish some guidelines for how gettogethers will run and talk about ground rules for group discussions. Then, set out
planning for the future!

GRIPMagazine

41

42

E plorations
IN THE
Underworld

GRIPMagazine

Hashtags are the newest way to talk about


depression, self-harm and suicide
By Erin Emily Ann Vance

he Internet is a place where we can find community,


but its also a place where unhealthy communities can thrive
amongst us. On websites like Tumblr, Twitter and Instagram,
teenagers dealing with eating disorders, depression and self-harm are
reaching out to one another using hashtags like #secretsociety123 and
#sue. These hashtags are like a portal into a world where others suffer
alongside you. There are often inspirational messages, but sometimes
there are images that are violent or sad, and might be seen as triggers.
Knowing that these hashtags were used to form a community around
self-harm, I searched with trepidation one day, not sure what I would find.
I struggle with anxiety, and I have dealt with it in various ways as Ive
grown up. When I was younger, I would exercise silently in my bedroom
until 4 a.m., or I would starve myself or take laxatives as part of my eating
disorder. Id sit on the cold floor of the bathroom for hours having a panic
attack, and Id carve words like thin into my thighs with razor blades.
But when I searched online, I was surprised to see that the vast majority
of posts tagged with those hashtags were just teens searching for community, rather than teens promoting their destructive behaviour. Instead of
seeing the bloody wrists and skeletal figures I expected, I saw entries that
looked eerily like my own teenage journals, which detailed a decline from
anxious kid into a cutter with disordered eating.
[Social media] can be an avenue for building communities and for stimulating positive change, says Christie Mellan, who works with the Canadian Mental Health Association in Calgary. It can be a place where teens
feel free to express themselves without the fear of judgment. And it can be
trendy. I think using social media is okay as long as its supportive.
Like those using secret hashtags, when I was young I just wanted
somewhere to belong. When I was at my worst, all I wanted was someone
else to be there to say, I get it. Cutting was lonely and embarrassing.
When I stopped eating, there was a triumph in others noticing, in friends
becoming concerned. It meant I was winning, and there was nothing they
could do to prove that I actually had an eating disorder. Its a lot easier,
though, for a teacher or a parent to prove that someone is cutting themselves. So I kept it hidden until the day after my16th birthday.
I was about to go on a trip and my mother was shoving things into my
carry-on baggage when razor blades slipped out of my journal. She was
shocked, and began reading some of my entries. I was caught. Ill never
forget the panic I felt when I realized my beloved journal was at home, and
the absolute sense of dread as I was called down to the office. My father
greeted me with tears in his eyes and we didnt speak on the drive home.

All I had to confide in was an old notebook, and now that had been taken
from me. I felt misunderstood a feeling those that search these secret
hashtags know well.
Its been more than five years since that day, and a bit less than that
since I last cut. At the time, we didnt have hashtags. If you wanted online
support you had to go to the bowels of the Internet, which often looked like
a scary and anonymous chatroom. I never found anyone to lean on. I dont
think hashtags used by self-harmers are meant to corrupt or to glamourize.
I think theyre just a way for people to feel less alone because cutting, like
many mental health issues, is isolating. I spent way too many nights crying
on a bathroom floor with a razor blade to advocate against a sense of community for kids and teens like me.

COPING STRATEGIES
According to Mellan, there are strategies you can use when feeling
the urge to engage in self-harm. The trick is finding the right strategy.
Here are a few to consider:
Take a mental vacation: Close your eyes and imagine yourself
anywhere you want to be. Once you pick a place, go through all five of
your senses. What do you smell? Are you at home and is the smell of
your moms chocolate chip cookies wafting through the house? What
do you hear? Are there birds singing? Ocean waves crashing? What do
you taste? Are you eating with friends? What do you feel? Is there sand
between your toes? Whats around you? Once youve gone through all of
your senses take a couple deep breaths and just be in your safe place.
When youre ready slowly open your eyes.
Keep a journal of the times you did not self-injure: Write down
empowering messages for yourself and why you didnt self-harm.
Exercise: This releases the same endorphins as self-harm. Along with
being a healthy option, it also has the benefits of lowering anxiety and
enhancing mood.

THERES NO SHAME IN REACHING OUT FOR HELP.


IF YOU ARE STRUGGLING WITH SELF-HARMING
BEHAVIOUR, CONTACT:
ConnecTeen (5pm-10pm) 403.264.TEEN (8336) or text:
587.333.2724
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or to chat online go to
kidshelphone.ca or download the AlwaysThere App.

GRIPMagazine

43

44

Some of televisions most


popular shows deal with
post-traumatic stress
disorder in real ways

GRIPMagazine

The Walking
A

lone figure moves with purpose


through the forest. She wears utilitarian
clothing and carries an assault rifle.
The womans gaze is focused, her brows are
furrowed and her breathing is erratic. Theres
tension in her movements, and although her
aim at five consecutive zombies (known as
walkers) is perfect, she looks unhinged. Two
women approach from behind, calling her name.
She doesnt look back to see who they are. Her
expression grows even darker, and she shakes
her shoulders like a wounded dog.
She snarls at them to Go back.Many
episodes of AMCs popular series The
Walking Dead deal with post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD) and its symptoms,
but its through Sashas character arc in
the most recent season that we see an
especially poignant portrayal. Watching
her unravel is excruciating and inspirational
I know the torment that Sashas character
experiences because I also live with PTSD.
Watching her fight against her symptoms has
been wonderful, because its a reminder that I am
not alone.
I have battled symptoms of PTSD for about
nine years as a result of traumatic sexual assault.
I was diagnosed with PTSD at the age of 15, about
four years after the assault, and began treatment
to overcome the worst symptoms. They improved,
and I am much further into my recovery now that
I have spoken about it. But that doesnt mean
that Im symptom-free. Smells, sounds and even
certain music can trigger flashbacks and physical
reactions. Nausea and vertigo seem to be the
most common response, along with a sense of
shame and terror.
When I first started noticing PTSD on some
of my favourite television shows, I wasnt sure
what to think. Should I be happy, because PTSD
is becoming normal in our society, and I dont

have to feel as much shame? Should I be scared,


because I am watching characters suffer through
the same pain that I have experienced? Perhaps I
should be angry that were still trying to normalize
a condition that weve known about since the
First World War?
Post-traumatic stress disorder has recently
risen in public awareness. The Mayo Clinic
defines PTSD as a mental health condition thats
triggered by either experiencing or witnessing
a terrifying event. Symptoms may include

By J.M.M. Lewis

searching at every turn for a way to escape the


traumatic memories that surround her. When this
episode of Reign aired, the actress who plays Mary
(Adelaide Kane) filmed a statement on behalf of
the team behind the show. It urged teens who had
experienced sexual violence to seek help.
Nickelodeons The Legend of Korra shows
another strong female character deeply affected
by traumatic events. The final season of the show
dealt with Korras PTSD and her attempts to
overcome it. An enemy from the previous season
left her temporarily bound to a
wheelchair, emotionally scarred
and with a toxic poison in her body.
She went into hiding, leaving her
loved ones behind for years as she
attempted to overcome the extreme
flashbacks and anxiety that crippled
her long after she was able to leave
the wheelchair. Those of us who have experienced
PTSD know that the poison she was trying to
remove from her body was a metaphor Korra
had to fight tooth and nail to save herself from
the disorder she was thrust into after her
attempted murder.
Over time, I have come to recognize that I can
feel a blend of emotions when I encounter PTSD on
television. When Korra is honest about her emotions
with her friends, I can feel a sense of triumph. When
Sasha finally lets out her tears and confesses the
depth of her depression, I can feel angry that she
has to confess it at all. When Mary is scared of her
husband, I can feel scared too. There are moments
where what Im watching triggers a flashback. But
then, when the moment passes and I am feeling
strong again, I can talk to people about it. I can
ask for support from the people I love because
they understand what I am going through. Its not
some mysterious disease its something we are
all aware of, and can learn more about simply by
turning on our TVs.

Although its hard to pinpoint the


exact reason for its increased
public presence, PTSD has spread
as a major plot point throughout
film and television.
flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as
well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event.
Although its hard to pinpoint the exact reason
for its increased public presence, PTSD has
spread as a major plot point throughout film and
television. Its no longer just portrayed within the
realm of adult dramas about war or emergency
room medicine its now present for the 13- to
19-year-old demographic too. Exposure to youth
has started dialogue and encouraged teenagers to
share their thoughts openly, but it is a hot button
issue that can potentially cause emotional turmoil
in young people.
The CWs Reign, a period drama based
loosely on the life of Mary Queen of Scots, also
features PTSD in its current season. After Mary is
sexually assaulted during an attack on her castle,
her emotional wounds are deep and varied in
their impact. Mary blames her husband for the
attack, and there is serious damage to their
previously strong and loving relationship. She
loses her familiar spirit and fight, desperately

GRIPMagazine

45

46

Portfolio
In each issue of Grip, we feature creative works from
our readers poetry, personal essays, short stories,
illustrations, comic strips and photography.

The Magician and the Star


BY DEENA GOODRUNNING

There once was a star who danced in the


sky like an ice diamond. Her every move was
dazzling and graceful, and her light shone the
brightest of all, second only to the sun. She
was the North Star, and her favourite thing
to do was dance the night away and guide
those who were lost.
One day, a powerful magician looked into the
sky and saw her. Instantly, he fell in love with
her beauty and light and that very night he
cast a powerful spell that yanked her from the
sky and pulled her down to earth. That night,
several people saw a falling star and made
a wish.
On Earth, the star was scared and confused.
She had no idea how shed fallen from her
spot in the sky but she knew one thing: she
had to return to the sky, and soon. But how?
The magician told her that hed used a spell
to bring her to earth, and that very soon
theyd be married and together forever.
No, you have to return me to the sky. Without
me, how will people find their way? asked
the Star. But the magician shook his head.
No, Im never returning you. I love you and
want you to stay with me forever. Well be wed
in a week.
Without the star to guide them, the people
on Earth found themselves lost each day
and night. The Star didnt shine as bright
anymore, and she asked the magician to let
her go.

He said,I cant let you go. I love you too much


to let you go.
If you love me, why do you keep me away
from my happiness and home? she asked.
The magician said, How can I be happy
when youre in the sky and I cant be
with you?
The star made him a deal:Every night, Ill
dance beautifully for you and Ill be happy.
The magician closed his eyes and when he
opened them he said, Okay, Ill send you
back. And with a heavy heart he cast the
spell that allowed her to return to the sky.
The night the star appeared back in the sky
there was much joy in the world. The first
thing people noticed about the star was how
much brighter her light was, how she twinkled
and danced.
Years passed, and the magician grew older.
He never failed to watch the star dance every
night. When the day came that he was too old
to continue living, he knew that he would not
live long enough for night to arrive. He would
die without seeing his star dance one last
time.So the magician went outside his house
and turned himself into a lake of water. When
night came, the stars would reflect off him,
and it would be as if his star was down on
earth with him.

Clay Sculpture
JAMES MACDONALD

GRIPMagazine

Winning submissions are awarded $50 and are featured here.

Midterms
BY LAUREN H BERRY

My mind is elsewhere,
Theyre called midterms but they feel so final and the nights studying
seem so endless,
Dates approach taunting and the universe is laughing,
Repeating verse after verse of Science, English, Social, and Math trying
to go fast.
The questions are on paper but the answers are set in stone,
I feel faint and alone,
8:00 a.m. coffee 12:00 p.m. Red Bull,
Its all part of the cycle how fast the gears on your brain can go.
How much can really be retained and how can anybody remain sane,
I cant think about what will be lost or gained,
My mind is elsewhere

I. Am. Broken
HEEYEONG PARK

GRIPMagazine

47

48

Portfolio

Untitled
ELIZABETH ALLOWAY

GRIPMagazine

The Waiting Room


BY CHRISTINE GREEN

Untitled
JORDYN OLTH

The walls are busy.


Plastered with posters,
Images bouncing with colour.
The questions ricochet within me.
I sit in wonder.
Silent but screaming.
How do I know what to say?
The clock on the wall crawls but time sprints.
Just another breath,
and they could call my name.
Can I stand without my knees buckling?
What will my reply be when they
ask what Im here for?
Through the stuttering,
the shattered shards of words,
will there be a coherent answer?
Have I even an answer?
I can only sit in this frail plastic chair
for so much longer,
trapped in this waiting room.

Clay Sculpture
JAMES MACDONALD

GRIPMagazine

49

50

Portfolio

Portfolio
Untitled
SOPHIA LENGLE

Depression
SYDNEY DESJARLAIS

GRIPMagazine

o
BIG CATCH
PANDY MA

Composite
JARED PROPP

GRIPMagazine

51

52

Portfolio

Portfolio
Reflections of Sgt. Hollis
AN EXCERPT FROM A SHORT STORY
BY SOPHIA LENGLE

Saturday, October 8, 1932

Untitled
SOPHIA LENGLE

Im homesick. Im homesick. Its


a simple sentence, but one that
describes what has been weighing
down on me for nearly as long as
I have been away. It was bearable
before, but in these past few days
its been getting worse. Maybe
thats because its October, or
maybe its just the war thats slowly
pulling me apart.
I always loved October as a kid. I
suppose I still love October, though
it doesnt feel the same as it used
to. Instead of running home from
school in soft leather shoes and
making a game of crunching the
leaves as I walked, I now march in a
foreign land in stiff black boots that
rub against my ankles and press
into my heels til I blister. But I dont

complain. Ive been trying to be a


man as my father used to say. A
level head and a strong jaw, thats
what a man ought to have. I take it
one day at a time and pray that living
is still an option tomorrow, and so
far it has been. I suppose Ive been
lucky. I am not actually out in the
fight and many have died already;
men older and stronger than I
real men as my father would say.
Yet, I am still standing.
Im not sure but I think I am still
here because I have a purpose; at
least thats what I am counting on.
I need to do something, because
watching innocent men go into
battle and seeing them come back
in pieces, or not at all, is sickening.
People here just dont look anymore
because its too hard. But I suppose
that is war. Ive never been one
for violence. I think its because
its so easy to do now. Thats the
problem with weapons. They make
everything so impersonal and easy,

Untitled
ELIZABETH ALLOWAY

GRIPMagazine

like its all a game, which it is not. It


is human life. Not a game. I devote
all my time now to finding a way to
stop it, a non-violent solution and I
think I am getting close. That is my
purpose.
Monday, October 10, 1932
I have made a discovery. What I
have been striving for this whole
time, the non-violent solution I
have dreamt about, has actually
become a possibility. Its brilliant:
my invention is small enough to fit
in a cigarette carton. I can hardly
believe it! Though thats also why I
am so surprised at how I feel. I have
wanted this so long ever since
my brother got sent out to the front
lines. But now that I can do it, I am
scared and even conflicted. I need
this invention to work, but I also
need it to be at the right time. It will
have such a huge impact and Im
just waiting for a sign

GRIPMagazine

53

54

Last Word
Humour

Schools OUT

A starter pack to help get you get ready for those summer days

GRIPMagazine

Put the lumbersensual


in lumbersexual with
Smooth Operators
AxMen Cologne!

Why work all day toppling trees


when you can get that smell of
manly manliness without lifting
a finger! Our expert scenticians
combined the odours of freshly
cut lumber, pine cones and wet
wool to give you that funky-fresh
just out of the forest aroma.

WARNING: Odour may attract bears, squirrels, skunks and wolverines. Some
users experienced birds attempting to nest in toques and/or facial hair. Overuse
may cause users to enrol in forestry school or experience delusions of having the
ability to operate a chainsaw or logging truck. Discontinue use if you experience
burning, itchy eyes, facial numbness, or scaly, bark-like skin patchiness.

Release your inner Kardashian


with new spRays!
Its the wicked safe* tanning solution
that harnesses the awesome power
of science instead of the harmful rays
of the sun.

Check out these shore to please shades

Carrot
Teen

Cheese
Puh-leez

Sorrentino
Sunrise

Oompa
Loompa

*WARNING: Prolonged use may cause mild to severe itching,


flakiness of the skin and/or personality. Some users experienced
ditziness, light-headedness, dry mouth, potty mouth and inflamation
of the ego. Do not use with hair products containing alcohol.
Will stain clothes, furniture and well, pretty much anything.

Burnt
Orange

Anda mungkin juga menyukai