Mental Health

May is mental health awareness month, and with it comes an opportunity to focus on the importance mental health plays in our lives. Many Canadians routinely suffer from the effects of stress, anxiety, or depression and often go unnoticed by those close to us. The effects of these conditions can have negative results on school, work, our relationships, and even physical health.

While it may be hard to address the underlying causes, there are some simple things that can be done to improve your mental health and help you better cope with the effects. This year VCAD is running a contest to encourage people to engage in activities that are proven to help relieve stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve your overall health.

This May we want you to post photos to the campus app of you participating in one or more of the following activities, and you’ll be entered to win a $50 gift card.

1. Call a friend or hang out with a friend

2. Get some exercise

3. Get some help and talk to someone

4. Get outside and enjoy nature

5. Do a fun or relaxation activity like going to a spa, taking a bubble bath, meditating, reading a book while sipping tea, watching a movie, painting your nails, going on a hike, completing a puzzle etc.

6. Eat a brain-healthy diet

7. Get a good night's sleep