Cross Country Checkupwith Duncan McCue
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After 4 years of sleepless nights with first-born, this mom hired a sleep trainer
For all but two months over four years, Sarah Birch's daughter would wake up crying throughout the night. The sleepless nights impacts her mental health and nearly ended her marriage.
Want to lose weight? More sleep could help, doctors say
When Ian Patton started his PhD, sleepless nights became typical — and he started craving junk food. Research suggests it's not uncommon for those who sleep less to gain weight, simply because there's more time in the day to snack.
How are you coping with a lack of sleep?
Researchers say that a 'sleep crisis' is heading our way. Two recent studies have found that lack of sleep can put you at risk for cardiovascular disease and increased anger.
Millennials could swing the 2019 election, but parties need to engage them, says pollster
Canadians between 18 and 38 will make up the biggest group of eligible voters in October's election, but Abacus Data CEO David Coletto says it's not clear whether they're 'excited' about casting their ballot.
Canadian politicians will court the ethnic vote, but will it benefit any one party?
For years, the Liberals could count on votes from immigrant communities, but with visible minorities a majority in 41 federal ridings, experts say that newcomers are politically diverse — and offer no guarantees for any one party.
What motivates you to participate in this year's federal election?
The wheels of October's federal election are now in motion. What will determine how voters — especially youth and ethnic communities — cast their votes? The candidate, the party, or the leader?
How a B.C. man is documenting his late mother's 'extraordinary life of adventure'
On Christmas Day, the three-month anniversary of his mother's death, Arne Sahlen began documenting his mother's history. Going through his family's artifacts, he uncovered things he never knew.
Composing resolutions: Why this Nova Scotia man wrote one tune a day in 2018
Adam Young hadn't written much original music until 2017, but in a spontaneous decision on New Year's Day last year, the Cape Breton pianist decided that he wouldn't go to sleep each night until he wrote at least a few bars.
How are you doing on your New Year's resolutions so far?
This is the time of year you make promises to break a bad habit or improve your life, but in recent years, the anti-resolution movement has picked up steam. Advocates say the focus shouldn't be on setting goals — it should be about making immediate changes.
In wake of Khashoggi killing, Mohamed Fahmy has little optimism for journalism in 2019
In a year that saw U.S. President Donald Trump continue his verbal attacks on certain news agencies, a high-profile journalist who was imprisoned in Egypt for more than a year says he's not optimistic about what the new year may hold for the industry.
What gives you optimism going into 2019?
Market volatility, rising authoritarianism and ecological nightmares — 2018 was a tough year. But we're still looking on the bright side as we head into a new one.
From felines to picket lines, these Canadians are finding second families for the holidays
It's the season for family gatherings, but many — either because of distance or estrangement — can't spend the holidays with their blood relatives.
'A place for you': Why chosen family can be a lifesaver for LGBTQ people over the holidays
While chosen family doesn't exist only in LGBTQ communities, the concept has particular significance for gay and transgender people. Despite greater acceptance, some LGBTQ folks face familial rejection and search for love and support in friends.
Who is your chosen family this holiday season?
As the definition of family becomes harder to pin down, friends, neighbours and even random strangers can end up with a place in your life.
Regina police chief says Indigenous relations have 'come a long way' in Saskatchewan
Two decades ago, Saskatchewan's police services came under fire for bias and discrimination against Indigenous people. Sunday on Checkup, he reflected on what's changed — and what needs to be done.
'Hidden form of prejudice': Diversity trainers say solving police racism has no quick fix
Three reports released this week find that systemic bias against black and Indigenous communities is prevalent in the Toronto and Thunder Bay police departments. Can anti-racism training fix it? Experts say it's tricky.
How can we tackle racism in Canadian policing?
Three shocking reports published this week give us a glimpse into the issue of racism in two Canadian police forces.
Unimpressed by grocery prices, this student ate well — from the dumpster
Making ends meet as a student in Toronto, Edith Wilson avoided grocery stores for her daily meals. The sociology student turned to 'good food' she found in dumpsters — and only spent $20 a month at the supermarket.
Food banks no solution to rising cost of groceries in Canada, argues anti-poverty advocate
Food banks are predicting more demand next year as food prices are expected to increase by up to 3.5 per cent, according to a Dalhousie University and University of Guelph report.
How is the cost of food changing the way you eat?
Food is going to get more expensive next year, according to Canada's Food Price Report 2019.
'Lego is continual': Minimalist parents share tips on making holidays with kids easier
Avoid the fads. Quality, multi-purpose toys can make Christmas a little more accessible, these minimalist parents told Cross Country Checkup.
Buying minimalism: marketers and gurus seize the popular philosophy to sell you more
Myriad minimalist home products promise to soothe your soul. Does that go against the idea of having less?
Does the minimalist lifestyle appeal to you?
Some believe that 'less is more' is the way to happiness, while critics label minimalism as a cult. Meanwhile, brands and marketers are also jumping on the bandwagon, trying to capitalize on the trend.
When it comes to hazing, female athletes are just as vulnerable
In a study released this summer, two-thirds of Canadian varsity athletes reported that they've experienced hazing. Researchers also found that women athletes are more likely to report hazing compared to men.
Why is hazing still a problem in Canada?
Again and again, hazing incidents keep happening to teenagers, college students, and young athletes. Is it hitting close to home? Can it be stopped?
