news&views Autumn 2019 | Page 54

Mental Health Part III: The Building Blocks Hailie Rondeau, RN | Care Specialist, HumanaCare The Canadian Mental Health Association says it best: “Mental health means striking a balance in all aspects of your life, which includes the social, physical, spiritual, economic, and mental aspects of our being.” Finding this balance is a lifelong process and requires attention, effort, and time. The reward is a mental reserve that we can draw on like an emergency fund in times of need and keeps us resilient in times of adversity. Balance can be more challenging for those experiencing mental illness, but no matter the experience of the person, it is possible to cultivate mental wellness with awareness, intention, a healthy lifestyle, and the support of family, friends, and professionals. The building blocks of mental health are innate and natural things that most of us do already, but by reflecting on how the following concepts integrate into your life, you may see areas for improvement, expansion, or reinforcement to support your mental health. 54 | arta.net