Taking a Moment for Mental Health
LET’S GET THROUGH THIS TOGETHER
January can be really tough, post-holidays, with spring months away, and we know that the winter blah’s are real. Add in COVID-19, physical distancing, isolation and so much unknown, it is important to take a few moments to focus on our own wellbeing.
Long before anyone had heard about COVID-19, mental health was a serious issue. Now, on this Bell Let’s Talk Day, we are reminded of the mental health situation all around us. Let’s take this moment to be part of the conversation on mental health.
In support of mental health awareness, I want to share a few things that you and your family can do to stay healthy at home (see below). Finding new ways to stay connected with friends, family and loved ones and practicing self-care supports good mental health and well-being for all.
Let’s get through this, together – try one or more of the following:
- Join a virtual book club;
Phone a friend and enjoy the conversation over a cup of tea or coffee;
Send a card or letter to show someone you care;
Take a couple of 10-20 minute breaks everyday and get outdoors for some R&R;
Have a video call over dinner to “share a meal”;
Treat yourself to a bouquet of flowers;
Join an on-line group fitness class to stay physically active;
Reduce stress by setting new routines and goals for your day/week;
Block out some no-screen time each day;
Add new green houseplants.
These are just a few ideas to hopefully pick us up when we are feeling blah.
If you or a loved one is going through a tough time, here are some resources that can assist:
- In Distress please call 911 for immediate help;.
If you are in crisis but do not require emergency care, you may contact any of the following services 24 -7:
- Distress Centre Halton at
– Oakville: 905-849-4541;
– Burlington: 905-681-1488;
– Milton/Halton Hills: 905-877-1211
Community Outreach and Support Team (COAST) at 1-877-825-9011;
Canadian Mental Health Association (905) 693-4270
Maintaining good mental health is just as important as your physical health.
May you and your family stay healthy & happy.
Blessings,
Rev. Kerry