Keep in regular contact with people who are close to you. Make online plans with friends and loved ones or do socially-distanced activities that follow public health guidelines.
Try to:
Practicing slow breathing and daily meditation have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, insomnia and other psychological disorders. Take some time to notice how you're feeling and what you're thinking, without judgement, then let the feelings and thoughts go. Being kind to yourself is as just as important as being kind to others.
Hobbies such as reading📚, writing✍, chess♟, crossword puzzles🧩, or even sudoku help sharpen the mind. But, these activities are not for everyone. You may opt for physical hobbies, like martial arts, dance, yoga, or focused exercise. Otherwise, there are many creative outlets that may suit you, like painting, music, drawing, web design, journalling, handicraft, pottery, sculpting, photography, knitting and crocheting, cooking, baking, photography, and so much more!
Take a break from work, school, or whatever committment you're obligated to do. Provided is a list of activities that may help distance your mind from worries and responsibilities:
Do not hesitate to reach out for professional help if you think you need it. If you have concerns about your mental health, contact your local health care practitioner. If you are in crisis or in immediate danger, call your emergency number (ex. 911). If you need someone to talk to, call your local distress centre. Here you can find numbers for distress centres in every province in Canada. Symptoms of poor mental health should be tended to like symptoms of poor physical health. Reach out.
Below you can find a resource created by Toronto's Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). Try to check off some things when you want to kick off your own self-care routine again.
Here are a few more game changing resources to help adults and youth understand more about addiction and the importance of maintaining good mental health. Don't forget to sign up for our newsletter with a click of the button below!
Coded by Elisabetta Canaletti