Amplifying conversations in mental health, addiction, and recovery — because every person deserves to be seen, heard, and understood.

I’m grateful you’ve found your way here. The Buzz with NP B was created as a space for thoughtful conversations about mental health, addiction, recovery, and compassionate care — a place where stories are valued, voices are heard, and understanding comes before judgment. My goal is to share evidence-informed education, clinical reflections, and practical insights in a way that feels approachable, meaningful, and grounded in the experiences of the people behind the diagnoses.

My journey into this work began as a Substance Use Support Nurse Practitioner in the acute hospital setting, where I had the privilege of caring for individuals during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. I witnessed firsthand the complex realities of substance use, addiction, and the many factors that influence a person’s health and wellbeing. I learned that behind every substance use concern is a person with a story — someone with experiences, challenges, strengths, and hopes for the future.

My path then led me to an outpatient mental health program, where I continued to see the profound need for accessible, compassionate mental healthcare. It became increasingly clear that so many individuals in our communities are struggling with their mental health while facing significant barriers to support, including limited resources, long wait times, and difficulty accessing care when they need it most.

This work has become more than just my profession — it is a passion.

I am passionate about supporting those who feel unheard, unseen, or overlooked. I believe that everyone deserves a space where their experiences are validated, their concerns are taken seriously, and their voices are respected. Sometimes, the first step toward healing is simply having someone listen.

A core part of my practice philosophy is that listening is the foundation of care. Before we can support change, we need to understand a person’s story — what they have been through, what they are carrying, what matters most to them, and what goals they hope to achieve. Healthcare is not just about symptoms, diagnoses, or treatment plans; it is about connection, trust, and partnership.

Mental health and substance use are complex. They are shaped by our biology, experiences, relationships, environments, and the challenges we encounter throughout life. Yet conversations about these topics are often surrounded by stigma, misunderstanding, and judgment. My hope is that this blog can help create a different kind of conversation — one rooted in compassion, curiosity, and evidence.

Through The Buzz with NP B, I will explore topics including:

• Mental health and emotional wellbeing
• Anxiety, depression, stress, and burnout
• Substance use, harm reduction, and recovery
• Addiction science and breaking down stigma
• Practical strategies to support wellness
• Reflections from clinical practice and the healthcare system
• The importance of accessible and patient-centred care

My intention is not to provide one-size-fits-all answers. Mental health and recovery are deeply personal journeys, and each person’s path looks different. Instead, I hope to provide information, encourage meaningful conversations, and create a space where people feel less alone.

Whether you are navigating your own mental health journey, supporting someone you love, working in healthcare, or simply seeking to better understand these topics, you are welcome here.

Thank you for joining me. I look forward to sharing knowledge, creating conversations, and continuing to advocate for compassionate care for all.

With compassion and curiosity,

— Betty Tom, NP