Oppose the Dread
A light-hearted battle cry for heavy times.
It started as a joke. A conversation among friends, tired of the creeping sense of unease that seems to haunt every corner of life right now—human rights under threat, misinformation everywhere, mental health struggles mounting, and that vague but persistent feeling that the world is on fire (sometimes literally). Somewhere in the middle of laughing so we wouldn’t cry, someone said it:
"We just have to oppose the dread."
And that was it. A phrase. A little graphic. A tiny act of rebellion.
Now it’s a reminder: We’re not surrendering to the gloom, the gaslighting, or the general garbage. We’re naming it, joking about it, shining light on it—and yes, pushing back.
Oppose the Dread is just our wee campaign that uses art, humour, and honest conversation to push back against the everyday avalanche of anxiety, foreboding, and existential weirdness. Through posters, products, social media shenanigans, and useful resources for mental health and self-awareness, we’re making space for relief, resilience, and maybe even a laugh or two.
Because sometimes, saying “nope” with your whole chest is the most powerful thing you can do.
One thing that is really prevalent right now is ANXIETY, and we get that.
Anxiety is more than occasional worry—it's a pervasive challenge that can hinder daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. In our fast-paced, uncertain world, anxiety disorders have become increasingly common, yet many suffer in silence due to stigma and lack of awareness.
Oppose the Dread also realizes the realities of anxiety and we want to provide clear pathways to help. Our Tshirts initiative encompasses:
Graphics start conversations: A simple “what does your t-shirt mean?” can start the sharing of stories, facts, and coping strategies to foster a supportive community.
Visual Campaigns: Distributing posters and products that spark those conversations and spread awareness in public spaces.
Information: Offering accessible information about anxiety, its impact, and avenues for assistance.
We are not experts, but we want to try and help people know where they can find the experts!
Resources
Anxiety Canada: Offers self-help tools like the "My Anxiety Plan" and the MindShift CBT app, designed to help individuals manage anxiety through cognitive-behavioral strategies.
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH): Provides comprehensive information on anxiety disorders and evidence-based treatment options, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication.
Kids Help Phone: A 24/7 service offering free, confidential support to youth across Canada via phone, text, and online chat.
Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA): Delivers programs and resources aimed at promoting mental health and supporting those with mental illnesses across Canada.
Government of Canada Mental Health Support: Provides information on mental health services and how to access help in different provinces and territories.
Nova Scotia Mental Health and Wellbeing: Offers resources and support services specific to residents of Nova Scotia.
