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S T R AT E G I E S F O R G O O D M E N TA L H E A LT H
Take Care
When our friends and family get sick, we take care of them and help
them feel better. Have you ever done this for yourself ? When you’re
feeling down or overwhelmed, taking small actions that make you
feel even a little bit better can make all the difference. This could
mean something different for everyone. It could mean washing your
car on a sunny day, reading a book, taking a scenic drive, or listening
to music. Set time aside for self-care activities the way you make
time for family or for the gym.
Physical Health
A healthy body helps maintain a healthy mind. Ensuring you have
regular physical activity, the right amount of sleep, and a healthy
balanced diet can make all the difference when it comes to your
mental health. It might even be time to make mindfulness or
meditation a part of your daily routine.
Connect to Bigger Things
The desire to connect to things that are greater than ourselves is part
of what makes us human. Whether this means a religious practice,
spending time in nature, or volunteering for a cause you believe in,
being a part of something bigger gives us perspective and meaning,
and is an important aspect of mental well-being.
Build a Support Network
Every year, one in five Canadians will personally experience a mental
health problem or illness. Connecting with friends, family, and co-
workers is vital to good mental health. Build healthy relationships
that can help you through the hard times, and connect with people
who can share their advice and struggles based on their own
experiences.
Healthy Thinking
How we think about and cope with life’s challenges is tied to how
we feel emotionally and physically, and it’s also a result of a lifetime
of practice. By talking with a mental health professional, we learn
new ways of thinking and how to manage difficulties in our lives.
Having a fresh perspective as well as a safe space to discuss our
challenges helps to improve resilience, confidence and self-esteem.
Please note the views and information expressed in this article do not replace the
assistance of a certified mental health professional. Special thanks to Coast Mental
Health for their assistance with this article. Visit coastmentalhealth.com to learn
more about their programs and services, and how you can get involved. Information
for this article was gathered from the Canadian Mental Health Association, the Public
Health Agency of Canada, and Coast Mental Health.