HealthyNS provides free online health and wellness classes for residents of Nova Scotia! Topic areas include Self-Management, Reducing Your Health Risks, Healthy Eating, Physical Activity, Mental Wellness and Parenting. Most programs are for adults who are 18 years and older, but there are specific programs for youth. Classes are developed and facilitated by experienced health care professionals from either Nova Scotia Health or IWK Health. And the best part? You don’t need a referral from a Doctor or Nurse Practitioner to join a program. Anyone can sign up!
To register for a class, you will need to provide your Nova Scotia health card number. Classes are held online using "Zoom for Healthcare". Learn more about these classes in this video.
To register below, select the blue "Register Online" button, for the class you want to attend, then pick a class date and time. If you can’t find a time that works for you, you have the option to complete some classes at your own convenience by selecting the blue “Self-Directed Module” button, where available.
Health and wellness program resources:
Register to attend one or more of the upcoming classes.
Courses fill up quickly! Select the Register Online button for each course to check availability.
Do you want to make positive changes to your health? Are you having trouble sticking to your goals or are unsure about where to begin? You're not alone. Meet one-on-one with a health goal coach and together you will work on turning your goals into a plan you can follow.
Select the Register Online button below, then select a time for your health goal coach to call you back.
Are you prepared for the future? Life insurance, a will and power of attorney are important—but there’s another kind of planning that costs nothing and ensures your medical and personal care wishes are respected. In this session, you’ll learn what advance care planning is and what to include in a personal directive.
Struggling to reach your health goals, or not sure where to start? This interactive session is designed to get you thinking and planning. With guidance from facilitators and input from the group, you’ll learn how to set realistic goals and create a personal plan that fits your life. This is an active learning session where your ideas, reflections and engagement are key to making it meaningful.
Don't have time to attend a live session? Select the button below to view an interactive recording of this session.
It's normal to face obstacles when trying to stay on track with your health goals. This session is designed to help you keep going and stick to your goals. Register for this session after you have attended Ideas Into Action.
Don't have time for a live session? Select the button below to view an interactive recording of this session after you have attended or viewed the session Ideas into Action. Small Steps. Big Success!
This session is for parents and caregivers of children living with a health condition. You’ll hear directly from youth who have moved into the adult healthcare system and learn why it’s helpful to start the conversation about transition early. We’ll explore what self-management means, why it matters, and how you and your child can begin building these skills together.
In this session we will review the basic expectations around being a substitute decision-maker, and discuss some of the things that can make it ethically challenging
Many Nova Scotians experience fatigue as a result of a health condition or other factors. This program will provide education and strategies that can be used to help you manage your fatigue in everyday life and maximize your available energy. Practicing energy management can help individuals improve their immediate and long-term health.
This session will explain what Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) is and how it works in Nova Scotia. You will learn about the laws, who can access MAiD and the steps involved.
Not enough time in your day? Too much time? Learning how to manage your time is a vital skill to help you make the most of your day! Join us to discover time management skills that you can use in your life.
Don't have time for a live session? Select the button below to view an interactive recording of this session.
Want to know where to go for care in a rapidly evolving health care system? This online session covers options like VirtualCareNS, Community Pharmacy Primary Care Clinics and more. Note: This session helps with self-management and navigation of the health care system but does not provide medical advice, access to providers or appointment booking.
This peer-led workshop is for youth (ages 13 and up) living with a chronic health condition, along with their caregivers. It’s an opportunity to start preparing for the transition from the pediatric to adult healthcare system. Through small-group activities and discussion, youth will connect with others, build self-management skills and gain confidence in managing their health. With guidance from trained peer facilitators, they’ll set a personal health goal and create a plan to practice a new healthcare skill.
Register to attend one or more of the upcoming classes.
Courses fill up quickly! Select the Register Online button for each course to check availability.
Want to be a better ally to 2SLGBTQIA+ people but not sure where to start? This welcoming workshop is a great first step. We’ll go over key terms and how to use gender-inclusive language and pronouns in ways that show respect and support. You'll learn what safer spaces are, why they matter, and you'll hear about the health and health care experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ people. You'll also find out about PrideHealth services and how to support 2SLGBTQIA+ people in your family, community and beyond.
Ready to take the next step in your allyship journey? This workshop builds on what you learned in Actionable Allyship. We’ll explore how to practice meaningful, ongoing allyship for 2SLGBTQIA+ people. You’ll learn strategies to challenge misinformation, support inclusion and create safer spaces in your community. This is a powerful opportunity to reflect, grow and take courageous action to support the wellbeing of 2SLGBTQIA+ people.
Discover the secrets of aging well in this online program! Learn practical tips and advice to stay strong and healthy as you grow older.
Conversations about health often focus on weight, but health is more complex than a number. This program explores weight bias, the many factors that influence weight, and why it’s time to redefine success beyond the scale.
Do you wonder how you could get a better night’s sleep? Sleep is vital to our physical health, mental health, and overall well-being. Join us for a discussion about why we sleep, what impacts our sleep, and discover other tips to get a better sleep.
Do you wonder how you could get a better night’s sleep? Sleep is vital to our physical health, mental health and overall wellbeing. Join us for a discussion about why we sleep, what impacts our sleep and discover other tips to get a better sleep. Get the same great content from our one week Building Better Sleep program, now split into two shorter, lunchtime sessions designed to fit your schedule.
Let’s talk lung health! The basics of COPD treatments and supports provided by lung and wellness experts who share a roadmap of what you should know and how to get the help you need. You can self-refer for individualized education and support follow up after taking this workshop.
This nonjudgemental support group is for individuals living with COPD. The group offers education and strategies to work towards reducing or eliminating your nicotine use. Living with COPD can present unique challenges so let's come up with solutions to these challenges together.
This two-week program explores the physical, emotional and lifestyle changes that can happen during the menopause transition. You’ll learn about common symptoms, what’s normal and what can be treated. The sessions include tips and guidance from a doctor and other healthcare professionals to help you feel more informed and in control.
Join our online Prediabetes program to understand what it means when your blood sugars are above the normal range. Discover the power of lifestyle choices, empowering you to take control of your future and make positive changes for a healthier life.
This online series will explain how the pain system works. You will learn how the body changes with chronic pain. You will also learn about the factors affecting pain and real ways to manage your pain. Attendance the first week of the series is required.
Fall is the best time to get ready for cold and flu season. This session provides clear, evidence-based information on COVID-19, influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines. You’ll learn which vaccines are recommended this season, when to get them and how they help reduce the risk of serious illness. We’ll also share how to access the Public Health Mobile Unit, which brings vaccines and other services to communities across Nova Scotia. Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to stay healthy this season. Join us to get the facts.
Many people have risk factors for heart disease and stroke. The good news is many of these can be managed and improved! In this series you will learn how healthy eating, physical activity, stress, sleep and substances impact your heart health. You will also learn how to create your own action plan for the changes you would like to make.
Whether you're ready to quit smoking or are just exploring your options, this judgment-free session offers resources, connects you to healthcare supports, and provides practical tips for success.
Learn on your own time with videos prepared by health care professionals at Nova Scotia Health. Learn about living well with COPD and asthma.
Register to attend one or more of the upcoming classes.
Courses fill up quickly! Select the Register Online button for each course to check availability.
Pourquoi tout le monde parle-t-il de l'alimentation méditerranéenne? Découvrez comment de simples habitudes quotidiennes inspirées du style méditerranéen d'alimentation peuvent favoriser votre santé et votre bien-être. Ce programme met l'accent sur des changements faciles et agréables que vous pouvez apporter à vos repas. La participation à la première semaine de la série est obligatoire.
Did you know that good health starts in your gut? Learn how your digestive system works, the role of your gut bacteria and how to feed your gut for good health.
This program is for anyone interested in eating more plant-based foods but is unsure where to start. Learn how to get the benefits of plant-based eating in a simple and cost-effective way without eliminating other foods you enjoy.
This program supports you to shift focus away from weight as a measure of your health. In this interactive, virtual group we will explore how to make lasting change in the areas of nutrition, physical activity and mental well-being. We will discuss the complexities of weight and learn strategies to support change.
This program does not focus on “dieting” and individualized meal plans will not be provided. Each week you will set your own goals and make a plan to achieve them.
Ever wonder why you eat the way you do? Craving Change® explores how your emotions and environment affect your food choices and offers tools and tips to help you make healthier eating choices.
Healthy eating is important at any age, but it plays a key role in promoting physical and emotional wellness as you get older. Come learn about key nutrients, foods and habits to help you eat well as you age.
Have you ever thought about the connection between what you eat and how you feel? Food choices and eating habits can affect mood, but how you feel can also influence what you eat. What’s good for your body is good for your mood!
Get inspired to start cooking healthy meals at home for one or two! You will get easy recipes and helpful strategies to plan meals for your small household. There will be no cooking in this program.
Not sure where to start with healthy eating? This program gets back to basics, offering simple and practical guidance to help you make balanced and nourishing food choices.
Are you tired of rigid and restrictive weight-loss diets? What if there was another way to approach healthy eating by focusing on gradual changes and flexibility over time? Join us to gain a deeper awareness of how thoughts and emotions influence our eating patterns. We will also explore how to notice hunger and fullness cues and practice mindful eating. Learn how being kinder to ourselves can help us work towards our health goals.
Learn how to get more value and nutrition from your food dollar. You will receive recipes and resources to help you organize, plan and prepare healthy low-cost dishes at home.
Meal planning can seem intimidating, and it can be hard to know where to start. Learn about the foundations for successful meal planning and leave with a plan that is flexible and realistic for you. You will receive a worksheet to help make a meal plan and a recipe booklet to start you on your journey.
Why is everyone talking about the Mediterranean way of eating? Discover how simple, everyday habits inspired by Mediterrean style of eating can support your health and well-being. This program focuses on easy, enjoyable changes you can make to your meals.
Attendance during the first week of the series is required.
Learn how to read food labels, understand the numbers, and focus on the nutrients that matter for your health goals. Practice with real food examples and build confidence in making informed choice
Register to attend one or more of the upcoming classes.
Courses fill up quickly! Select the Register Online button for each course to check availability.
Discover how physical activity can improve your health and manage chronic conditions! Physical activity counselling empowers you to make long-lasting improvements to your physical activity levels. Meet one-on-one with a physical activity counsellor and together you will create a personalized plan that helps meet your goals.
Select the Register Online button below, then choose an appointment time.
Do you want to improve your strength but are not sure where to start? This session will teach you safe ways to do strengthening exercises, use different types of equipment, and how to progress with these exercises on your own. You will NOT be exercising in this session.
Learn the Canadian Guidelines for how much exercise you need for health benefits. We will discuss simple techniques on how to safely increase your intensity with no equipment.
Mindful Movement blends physical activity with mindfulness, focusing on awareness and presence during gentle movement. It aims to connect mind and body, improving physical and mental well-being. You will NOT be exercising in this session
Our bodies were designed to move and that can be challenging. Learn about the impact on our health from too much sitting and share ways to move more in our homes, neighborhoods, and communities.
In this two part series you will learn the facts about weight loss and exercise. We will discuss different types of exercise and their role in your health, in weight loss, and in maintaining good health. Learn tips to be active at any size. You will NOT exercise in this program.
Physical activity throughout pregnancy promotes maternal, fetal, and neonatal health. Click on the button below to watch a video from Nova Scotia Health's Community Health Teams who will guide you through a self-directed exercise routine.
Register to attend one or more of the upcoming classes.
Courses fill up quickly! Select the Register Online button for each course to check availability.
We all have the same 24 character strengths that we express in different ways. Together, we will discuss character strengths, how to recognize them in ourselves and others, and learn the benefits of using them in life.
In this single session you will learn how improving our emotional awareness helps us increase our overall wellness. This program offers tools and information to explore our own emotional responses and how our thoughts, feelings and behaviours all work together. Build your confidence in understanding and managing your emotions.
In this program, you will learn how to identify emotions and develop skills to respond effectively to a range of emotions. Attendance the first week of the series is required.
Leisure and recreation can have a big impact on our health and wellbeing. There are ways you can connect with things that interest you and experience enjoyment. Join us to explore strategies and resources to make the most of your free time.
Expressing our needs can be difficult. In this program you will learn about communication and practice assertiveness skills (e.g. active listening, saying no and making requests).
Do you feel stuck or that you are not thriving mentally? This one-hour interactive workshop will teach you the basics of mental wellness and how to flourish in your everyday life. You’ll learn what mental wellness is, how it affects your health and leave with a tool to promote your own mental wellness.
Dans ce programme, vous apprendrez ce que c'est le stress. Vous explorerez comment il se manifeste chez vous et vous mettrez en pratique des techniques pour réduire vos symptômes.
Interested in self-compassion but not ready for a series? In this single session you will practice ways to promote self-compassion when we experience difficulties in our everyday lives.
Being self-compassionate can help provide us comfort, improved health, and increase our sense of satisfaction in our roles. Join us to dive deeper and practise ways to promote self-compassion when we experience difficulties in our everyday lives.
In this program you will learn about stress, explore how you experience stress, and practise skills you can use to reduce stress symptoms.
Stress can have significant impacts on our health and well-being. Together we will learn about stress, explore how we experience stress, and practise a variety of skills you can use to reduce stress symptoms.
Register to attend one or more of the upcoming classes.
Courses fill up quickly! Select the Register Online button for each course to check availability.
This workshop focuses on providing guidance to parents on how to introduce solids to their infants using a baby-led feeding approach.
This program focuses on improving your child's social and emotional skills and reducing behaviour problems. It is for parents of children who are 3-6 years old
This program focuses on improving your child's social and emotional skills and reducing behaviour problems. The program is for parents of children who are 6-12 years old.
In this two-session certification program, you’ll learn how to support youth aged 12 to 24 experiencing a decline in their mental health. This program is for parents, guardians and volunteers who interact with youth regularly. Please note: A self-directed module must be completed two weeks before the start of the virtual program.
Learn how to identify early signs of anxious feelings in your children, and develop skills to help them manage everyday anxiety. For parents and caregivers of children up to 12 years old.
This single session will help you better understand your teen and how their brain works. You’ll learn simple strategies to improve communication and help your family life feel more calm and connected.
We live in a world where screens are everywhere. In this session, you’ll learn about the risks and benefits of screen time and explore simple ways to support healthy screen habits at home. For parents of children aged 0 to 12.
Parenting is a difficult job. Being self-compassionate can help provide us comfort, improve health and increase our sense of satisfaction in our roles as parents. Join us to practice ways to promote self-compassion when we experience difficulties in our everyday lives.
Before you watch this self-directed exercise video, read the Pregnancy and Exercise Handout below for further information about the benefits and risks associated with exercising while pregnant. You will also learn how to set exercise goals for yourself and find links to other exercise resources.
Thank you for watching this video and reading the accompanying handout. We want to hear about your experience so we can improve. Please take a few moments to complete our survey. The information collected in this survey is anonymous (does not identify you) and confidential.
Learn on your own time.
The following on-demand education videos provide information and strategies to help you understand and manage conditions such as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder) and asthma.
This video provides basic information about how COPD affects your lungs and explains how to diagnose COPD.
You will learn basic strategies for managing your COPD symptoms and for staying healthy.
You will learn how to change your nicotine use and reduce or quit smoking. This video is intended for people who have already been diagnosed with COPD.
Learn about personal health directives: what they are, how to write one, and why it is important to decide now about how you will be cared for when you are ill and no longer capable of making health care decisions on your own.
Learn about the basics of living with asthma: