REGINA — The Canadian Red Cross (CRC) is encouraging citizens ahead of the upcoming holidays to maintain a balance and safeguard mental and emotional health during stressful times.
One in five Canadians experience a mental illness, according to the Canadian Centre for Addictions and Mental Health. By the time Canadians reach 40 years of age, one in two have, or have had, a mental illness. Setting individual realistic expectations rather than being pressured by others or pressuring oneself can help you protect your mental health and emotional well-being, according to CRC.
The CRC offers several tips for staying well over the holiday period.
One example that leads to additional stress this time of year is overspending. Set and stick to a budget. There are lots of creative ways to gift and celebrate that don’t involve spending a lot of money. Another example could be to learn to be real and tell others the truth without feeling bad. Saying “no” can help you avoid unrealistic expectations and can lift a burden. Turn down invitations if you don’t have the time, or don’t want to attend.
Also, regular exercise releases endorphins which give an emotional boost, and make you feel good. “Physical activity also helps reduce stress, boosts your immune system and strengthens your body,” explains Lise Perrault-Streeter, CRC Mental Health, and Psychological Support Specialist (MHPSS) specialist for Saskatchewan. “Keeping to an exercise routine can help you to feel in control when perhaps many holiday activities aren’t within your control.”
She also advises that getting sufficient sleep, rest and eating healthy meals is crucial in safeguarding mental and emotional health. Practice mindfulness daily. Talk to someone you trust. Have a list of coping strategies ready to use if needed, things like singing, listening to music, journaling, coloring, drawing, going for a walk, having a nap or watching a comedy.
If overwhelmed, consider reaching out to these free resources: Home | Online Therapy Unit (onlinetherapyuser.ca) (18years+), or Rapid Access Counseling: Family Service Saskatchewan’s Rapid Access Counselling Program (counsellingconnectsask.ca). You may prefer to talk to an elder, a minister, a trusted friend, school counselor; the most important thing is to just reach out and talk to someone.
