Healthcare Hero: Alshaba Billawala

Healthcare Hero Alshaba Billawala is a registered psychologist in South Calgary who works collaboratively with adults, adolescents, and couples regarding various challenges that they may be facing.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, Alshaba has developed new approaches and adapted her practice in order to continue to support her clients with in-person and remote care. With many clients experiencing increased stress, anxiety, and depression as a result of these unprecedented times, her role as a psychologist has been crucial in supporting their mental healthcare needs. Like many of us, Alshaba has also had to learn how to cope with the increased uncertainty in her life and find new ways to connect with her family and friends.

As someone who is a strong advocate of planning for the future, this has been one of her greatest challenges during this time. Outside of her professional role, Alshaba volunteers as a member of the Timely Access Medical Advisory Service (MAS) team. In this position, she manages mental health related cases and supports members of the Jamat. This can range from helping with access to resources or assisting with crisis management.

Alshaba’s greatest lesson during this time has been to embrace learning , the value of slowing down, and being intentional with her time. During the pandemic, she recognized the toll that her usual fast-paced life was taking on her physical and mental well-being, and she took the opportunity to realign her values and priorities. Alshaba’s advice to the Jamat is to set aside time to take care of ourselves. The pandemic has affected all of us in unique ways, and as a population, we are seeing increased levels of chronic stress which can impact our physical body and mental health. Without some of our regular coping mechanisms available (such as visiting gyms or seeing loved ones in person), Alshaba recommends that individuals find new ways to engage in self-care and take the time needed to recharge. For Alshaba, self-care involves going for a walk outside to help ground herself – even if it is just for a few minutes, and listening to her favourite podcasts.

If you are interested in nominating a Healthcare Hero, please fill out this nomination form or email akhbc@iicanada.net.

Nominations will be closing on Friday, April 30.