According to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), 40 per cent of Canadians say their mental health has deteriorated since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents continue to experience unprecedented stress, feelings of anxiety and uncertainty related to the pandemic.

May 3 to 9 marks Mental Health Week, and the City of Mississauga wants to remind residents that it’s never too late to take care of their mental health. The City believes in strengthening individuals, families and the community by connecting people to programs and services that promote health and well-being. The City, along with the Region of Peel and community partners like the CMHA and Credit Valley Conservation (CVC), offers access to many resources to take care of your emotional and mental health.

Below are a few tips on how you can incorporate good mental health practices in your day-to-day:

Connect with others safely online – Evidence shows that social interaction is a biological requirement much like eating, drinking and sleeping. Call a friend, set up a video chat or make time to connect with those you live with.

Stay active – Taking the time to engage in physical activities can have lifelong benefits for your physical, emotional and mental health. Research shows that regular exercise can have significant positive impacts on anxiety, depression and negative mood. Even short, 10 minutes bursts of stretching or walking can increase our mood, alertness and energy. Stay healthy, active and connected at home with online videos, nutritional tips and home workouts.

Take a walk outside – Find a trail or park near your home for some fresh air and greenery to help boost your mood. Taking a walk outside is an easy way to naturally reduce stress and stay physically healthy. When outside, please follow all health and safety COVID-19 guidelines by staying two metres apart from those not in your household and wearing a mask when physical distancing cannot be maintained. Find the closest park or trail near you.

Make time for yourself – Sometimes life can get hectic. Building self-care into your daily or weekly routine can greatly improve resilience and prevent burnout. Set aside time during the day to do something you enjoy like reading a book or a newspaper, gardening or spending time with your family.

Learn a new skill or try a new activity – Learning a new skill can build confidence. It can help to improve your mental health. We have a variety of creative and easy virtual activities you and your family can try at home including arts and crafts, fun food and literacy and learning.

The theme for this year’s Mental Health Week is #GetReal about how you feel – name it, don’t numb it. When we name how we feel, it helps us understand and process our emotions—which is all a part of good mental health. If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health issues, there is hope and help:

• Please contact your local CMHA

• Visit cmha.ca/bounceback

• Visit the Government of Canada’s Wellness Together portal

• Visit the Province of Ontario’s COVID-19 Supports page

• Check out the CMHA Quick Guide