The World Health Organization (WHO) constitution states: “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” WHO goes clarifies that based on this definition, “mental health is more than just the absence of mental disorders or disabilities”.

Taking care of our mental health, for adults and children alike, is a critical part of life. Our mental health includes our psychological and social well-being and it has an impact on how we think, feel, and act in our daily life. The state of our mental health determines how well we handle stress, make choices in our daily lives and how we relate to others. Taking care of our mental health needs to become a part of everyday conversations, workplace strategies, and school environments.

Our mental health is impacted by events that happen to us. For example, it is a normal response to feel sad or depressed after the death of a loved one. It is not uncommon to feel anger when a situation is unfair or unwarranted or when we have been taken advantage of. It is important to work through these thoughts, feelings, and emotions.

A person’s mental health is also impacted by mental health disorders/illnesses such as Anxiety & Panic Disorder, OCD or PTSD. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms or have areas of concerns about your mental health and wellbeing, please immediately contact your healthcare practitioner, local emergency room, or call the crisis line.

If you experience any of the following, please seek medical advice:

*Note: This is not an exhaustive list of symptoms or concerns – if you have any concerns, questions, or symptoms, seek medical advice.

You can help yourself or a loved one by:

Seeking the help of a professional as needed

Help your loved one get connected with others or if this is for you, seek out groups where you can receive support

Feed your mind and soul with positive information – read positive material, listen to positive meditations and/or music.

Engage in physical activity – it needn’t be strenuous – go for a walk, bike ride or a swim.

Ensure you have structure – go to bed at a certain time and get up at a certain time – eat at regular intervals even if it is something small.

Go out and do something for someone else who could use the support – helping others actually gives our outlook on life a major boost!

Look up “coping skills” on the Internet, YouTube or in the library – there is lots of information to help you implement new strategies.

Pace yourself!