Mental health issues have become much more prevalent during the Covid pandemic. Unfortunately, these issues have not (yet) been given the respect they deserve. I say yet because I hope someone in power will step up and recognize the increased need for help.
Mental Illness Education Act (MIEACT)
This group in Canberra, Australia has stepped up to address mental illness in a big way. MIEACT or Mental Illness Education Act was created in 2014 but is recognizing the increased need for mental health support during the pandemic.
I saw this post on Facebook recently where MIEACT describes the ways to improve your mental health:
Did you know that you can consciously create opportunities for your body to release Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin and Endorphin, increasing your wellbeing, stabilizing mood, improving motivation and increasing connection?
MIEACT
That’s lots of ways to make yourself feel more cheerful and healthier!
According to AtlasBiomed, endorphins, oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin are all “happy hormones,” chemicals that are released within our bodies naturally sending positive, feel-good messages to our brains.
Good on MIEACT for sharing these ways to improve our mental health. Hopefully, the rest of the world can step up too to recognize, support, and tackle these important issues in their areas of the globe.
Jack Chapters
Jack Chapters are peer support groups in schools and campuses across Canada, led by youth. They provide safe and supportive connections for struggling youngsters so they do not feel alone. Group activities include board games, large group interactive games, guest speakers, gardening, and journaling.
You can support this initiative by visiting Jack.org and donating to support the organized activities.
Improve Your Mental Health at Home
There are things you can do within the comfort of your own home to improve your mental health and boost your immune system at the same time. Because the two are connected. Here is a list of inexpensive, simple ways to stay on track:
- eat healthy or healthier
- laugh more
- stress less
- let go of anger, learn ways to handle it better
- move on from past endeavors that did not work out
- exercise, preferably in fresh air. A long walk or gardening does wonders for me.
Easier said than done, I know. It may take a conscious effort to get started but you have to start somewhere, and no one else can motivate you like you can!
