Dr. Meyer suggests pairing counselling with activities that boost mental health, such as:
Sleep
Quality sleep promotes healing and facilitates the neurochemistry needed to regulate mood.
Nutrition
A balanced diet and adequate hydration supports health and feelings of well-being.
Exercise
Physical activity improves mood by releasing mood-enhancing neurochemicals and reducing stress.
Socializing
Engaging with others often provides emotional support, helps maintain cognitive health, and provides a distraction from stress.
Intellectual Stimulation
Challenging your brain through learning, problem-solving, and creating or consuming art keeps it aroused and engaged.
Where to Start with Counselling
ARTA members with Extended Health Care can access coverage for up to five hours of individual counselling and five hours annually, per covered person, through GreenShield Counselling. It’ s a great place to get a feel for how sessions work.
Accessed through the MyARTA Health Hub, GreenShield Counselling connects you with therapists trained to help you navigate new life phases, manage health issues, or process feelings of loss without leaving the comfort of your home. The platform offers access to a wide network of clinicians and a personalized therapist-matching tool that simplifies the search. Online appointments are available within 24 hours, so you can connect with a provider that meets your needs and schedule.
“ Contrary to popular belief, retirement often comes with a host of emotional challenges as we leave behind old routines, relationships, and life chapters,” says Joe Blomeley, executive vice-president and head of GreenShield Health.“ Counselling is another way to get the guidance needed to navigate the challenges of retirement with confidence.”
Nature
Spending time in forests, parks, near lakes, and on nature trails calms the nervous system, reduces stress, and refreshes the spirit.
Humour / Laughter
Laughter helps to release feel-good neurochemicals and reduces tension.
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