NORTH GRENVILLE, ON - May 2 to 8, 2022 marks Mental Health Week, and the Municipality of North Grenville is reminding residents that mental health resources are available to anyone who is struggling.
“Communities across the country have been through a lot during the past two years – and the longer-term effects of isolation from family, social and faith networks are just being felt now. Transitioning to the new normal may come with its own challenges – and seeking mental health resources is a totally ok thing to do,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford.
“Mental Health Week provides an opportunity to increase awareness of what we can do every day to manage and improve our mental health and support others,” added Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan and Parks, Recreation and Culture Liaison. “Investing in our mental well-being is as crucial as investing in our physical health.”
Below are a few tips on how you can incorporate mental health practices in your day-to-day:
Connect with others
Evidence shows that positive social interactions improve our physical well-being! Call or visit a friend or set up a video chat with a distant family member. Make time to connect with those you live with by playing a game.
Stay Active
Taking the time to engage in physical activities can have lifelong benefits for your physical, emotional and mental health. Even short, 10 minutes bursts of stretching or walking can increase our mood, alertness and energy. Research shows that regular exercise can have significant positive impacts on anxiety, depression and negative mood.
Get Outside
Spending time in nature is an easy way to reduce stress and stay physically healthy. North Grenville has continuously improved its trail system over the last decade. There are well maintained trails at Kemptville Campus, Ferguson Forest and Limerick, as well as more urban trails including the Rail Trail, and the Settlers Trail in the heart of North Grenville. Visit www.NGTrails.ca for the list of local trails.
Develop Healthy Habits
We all know eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep does a body good!
Make time for yourself
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, gardening or spending time with your family.
Community Resources:
Children’s Mental Health of Leeds & Grenville | 613-498-4844
Lanark, Leeds & Grenville Mental Health and Additions | 24/7 Crisis Line 1-866-281-2911
Kids Help Phone |1-800-668-6868 TEXT 686868
Family & Children’s Services of Lanark, Leeds, & Grenville | 1-855-667-2726
Parent’s Lifeline of Eastern Ontario (PLEO)
Government of Canada’s Wellness Together portal
Canadian Mental Health Association
- 30 -
For more Information Contact:
Jill Sturdy, Corporate Media Relations Officer
613-258-9569 ext. 168
