As the new term begins, York is hosting Well-being Week: Caring for Your Mental Health – a series of events for community members to learn about mental health and well-being. Well-being Week events will run until Jan. 26. All are welcome.
The cold, dark winter days are challenging. With more time spent indoors and less sunlight, many people experience heightened feelings of loneliness, depression and anxiety. Over the next few weeks, community members are encouraged to prioritize their mental health and fight the winter blues by participating in Well-being Week events, which include webinars, cooking classes, creative self-care activities and yoga sessions.
“Well-being Week is one of the many ways York University demonstrates our commitment to fostering a culture of well-being across our campuses,” said York Assistant Vice-President Human Resources Mary Catherine Masciangelo. “Thank you for taking this time to come together as a community to destigmatize and raise awareness about the importance of mental health and well-being.”
Masciangelo shared some tips to get help fight the stigma surrounding mental health:
- Make an effort to learn more about mental health. Learn more from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH).
- Encourage discussions about mental health in a kind and compassionate way. This will reduce stigma and people will feel more comfortable asking for help if they need it.
- Be aware of your attitudes and behaviours. Choose your words carefully. The way we speak can affect the well-being of others. Learn more from CAMH.
- Let’s all keep looking out for one another. Our community is stronger when we care for ourselves and each other.
York University is also developing a Well-being Strategy that aims to create an inclusive and supportive environment where students, staff, faculty and instructors can thrive. Community members are encouraged to provide their input, feedback and priorities by joining one of the upcoming Well-being Strategy engagement sessions.
To learn more about Well-being Week and register for the events, visit the Well-being Week webpage. To learn more about well-being and mental health supports and resources, visit the Well-being website.