Mental Health Week 2020, a Message from Board Chair Kelly Whalen

  Posted: May 4, 2020

This week we are celebrating Mental Health Week from May 4 to 10, 2020. In our world right now, mental health is more important than ever. While we are changing routines and adapting to our new normal, we must make our mental health a priority. This week I encourage you all to set aside some time to do activities that have a positive effect on your mental health. Go for a walk, exercise, write in your journal, practice your favourite hobby, talk to a friend you trust – these are just a few ideas of simple ways to improve your mental health.

For more ideas and resources about improving mental health, visit mentalhealthweek.ca. This website was created by the Canadian Mental Health Association and is a credible source of information in Canada. 

One of the many pieces of advice they share on mentalhealthweek.ca is about our natural need for social connection. Many of us are experiencing loneliness while we adhere to social distancing regulations. According to the Mental Health Week website, “We need to be deliberate about our social connections because they are no longer built into our daily lives. Phone calls, video calls and other digital technologies offer excellent opportunities for connecting, even when we can’t be in the same room. What is known as “passive” socializing – like listening to others – can foster social connection and reduce social isolation.”

I encourage you all to celebrate Mental Health Week by prioritizing your own mental health. Pick up the phone; start that video call! We will get through this together!

God bless,

Kelly Whalen
Board Chair