BY: ELLE DJ
During Mental Health Awareness month, we focalize on the importance of mental health and personal well-being. These past few years more than ever, it is vital that special care is paid to ourselves and our needs.
With the pandemic having a significant impact on all of our lives, leaving many with (increased) stress, anxiety, and depression, it is essential that we take our mental health seriously, just as we would our physical health. Here are a few organizations based in the Jane & Finch area that can help you with doing just that:
Jane Finch Community & Family Centre: With their Community well-being program, ‘GETTING IN TOUCH (GIT)’ that works with community partners, they “increase social interaction and integration into the community, provide knowledge and opportunities for referral to other appropriate community resources, reduce barriers caused by income, race, gender, language, sexual orientation and physical/mental health, and contribute to a safe, supportive and creative environment that enhances capacities in dealing with life issues” (www.janefinchcentre.org/mental-health)
Generation Chosen: “Through openly and compassionately dealing with harmful emotional tendencies and confronting mental health related obstacles, creating opportunities for educational matriculation, financial self-sufficiency/literacy, and meaningful mentorship, this non-profit organization is devoted to interrupting intergenerational cycles of trauma and poverty in lower-income communities, and aims to holistically support the development of those most vulnerable in our society.” (www.generationchosen.ca)
Black Creek Community Health Centre: This non-profit community-based organization “provides resources and the health-care services and programs for Toronto’s Northwest communities. With care and compassion, your unique needs will be your care team’s focus and goal so you can live your healthiest life.” (www.bcchc.com)
With these incredible resources at your disposal, please remember to also
Take care of your body by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep (which all considerably reduce stress and improves your mood)
Reach out to friends and family members and get involved in your community (social support reminds you that you are not alone)
Practice self-care with activities you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, skin care, watching your favorite show or movie, etc. Doing these things, again, reduce stress and improves your mood while allowing you to (re)connect with yourself and relax
Seek help when you need it! Sometimes asking for help is hard, however, when struggling with mental health concerns like anxiety, depression etc, mental health professionals can offer the tools that you may need to feel better.
Please, be kind to yourself!