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www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Thursday, March 10, 2016 | 18 Conference a first at IRHS continued from p.14 If the situation had escalated, he said there was potential for him to be arrested and charged with assault. That would've affected his job, which requires a clear police record. "How you respond when someone provokes you, can affect the rest of your life," McLean said. He said it's important to recognize your feelings and know when to pause and make a good choice. He also spoke about finding outlets to support mental health. A number of students spoke about using music and exercise as an outlet, which McLean said were positive ways to take a break from stress. He warned against using substances to cope with anxiety and stress. McLean warned about making your body believe it needs that "outside source" and how that's treading in dangerous territory. "There are some things that seem harmless, but if you make it a habit, it can really affect you, so it's not as harmless as it might seem," he said. McLean's hour-long presentation also encouraged students to "think global and act local." Poking fun at "First World problems" he encouraged students to make a difference in their local communities and beyond. Following the address, students participated in workshops that featured politicians, athletes, business experts, leadership specialists, and mental health professionals. Motivational speaker Molly Burke shared how obstacles can become opportunities; Korey McDermott, of SAVIS of Halton, explored what it means to "be a man" and healthy expressions of masculinity; and, Jane Thornton drew on personal experience as she spoke about how to be a global citizen. Thornton went from getting poor grades and hating high school gym class to winning an Olympic gold medal in rowing and becoming a doctor. Kathryn Patterson, the student success lead teacher at Iroquois Ridge, told the Oakville Beaver it was a real effort to host the conference. As one of a number of teachers and students organizing the event, she said she's proud of everyone who made it happen. "I think the day will unfold with lots of learning," she said. The conference focused on learning the three things organizers wanted students take away -- how to approach mental health issues; become great global citizens; and unleash their own leadership potential. "We know every student in this building has that and we want them to find ways to unleash it and take initiative in a way that works for them," added Patterson. 1510 Speers Rd. (at 3rd Line) Oakville Tel: 905-827-2243 Jeep 4x4 $395/Weekend Services While You Stay! Up to 15 Passengers! $200/Day Odyssey 8 Passenger! $445/week Honda Civic $250/week #1 IN CUSTOMER SERVICE SINCE 1994 Free Pick-Up & Delivery 24/7