Accessibility for All Magazine August 2024 | Page 33

Connection and community
Connecting with others who have similar experiences can make a big difference . You can find a place where you belong , share your experiences with people who understand and come away feeling validated . If leaving the house is a challenge , there are many online groups and communities that can help too .
Finding purpose and meaning
Setting goals that give you a reason to get out of bed in the morning is an important step in managing your mental health . Whether it ’ s a hobby you enjoy , work or volunteering , there ’ s healing in having a purpose .
Many of our clients enjoy volunteering , or working as part of our employment programs , and benefit from both the income , and the purpose it gives them .
Therapeutic interventions
If you are struggling with negative thoughts and low confidence , Cognitive-behavioral therapy ( CBT ) and dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT ) can help you change the way you ’ re thinking . We ’ ve seen positive outcomes for people who have taken part in Coast ’ s Brain Training program , which includes both of these therapies , many reporting a significant improvement in their quality of life as a result .
Creative outlets
Art , music , writing or gardening can be a great way to express what is inside in a format that suits you . And you can choose to share the results or keep them to yourself .
Advocate for yourself
Knowing and asserting your rights can help in getting the accommodations you need . Resources for advocacy and legal rights can be very helpful and empowering .
Coast Mental Health provides community , connection , employment opportunities and support for people living with mental illness in BC . Many of these programs and activities are funded thanks to the generosity of our community of donors . Visit CoastMentalHealth . com to find out more about how you can get involved .
www . coastmentalhealth . com
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