International Mental Health Day and Thanksgiving Long Weekend

In Canada, we were lucky to observe International Mental Health Day as we began our Thanksgiving Long Weekend. This timing prompts us to reflect on gratitude for those we cherish and how their affection boosts our mental health. Whether you're celebrating Thanksgiving with family or having Friendsgiving with chosen others this weekend, remember that the quality of relationships—whether familial, platonic, or romantic—impacts mental health, and that mental health affects the quality of our relationships.

We often assess mental health based on how well someone appears to function. For instance, if our loved ones regularly go to work or school and engage in social and community activities, we tend to think they are doing well. However, we all understand that individuals can conceal the internal pain they might be experiencing while still seeming functional and engaged in life.

A true sign of strong mental health is how well someone handles the ups and downs of life. If you wake up feeling rested and ready to face the day, it's likely that your mental health is solid, and you go through your day in a calm, balanced way. 

This is because robust mental health promotes cognitive and emotional flexibility. When we’re not cranky or otherwise moody, we are better able to reflect on and respond to unwanted events that arise unexpectedly. Often, these events stem from interactions with our loved ones that leave us feeling bewildered or disappointed. But when our mental health is strong, we are better able to take a bird’s-eye view of events and find different ways to interpret a loved one’s negative behaviour. 

When we focus on our mental health, we free ourselves from rigid thinking and chaotic behaviour and become more willing and able to support our loved ones who might not currently be at their best. 

Prioritizing Mental Health in Our Relationships

Mental health is crucial for fostering empathy in relationships. Someone who prioritizes their mental well-being will better understand their own feelings and be more open to recognising others' emotions. The willingness to see things from another person's perspective, even when there is disagreement, shows a commitment to being gentle and kind. This open attitude, in turn, allows others to feel safe enough to offer compassion in return. As Gabor Mate has stated, “Safety is not the absence of threat; safety is the presence of connection.” 

May you prioritize your mental health and May your Thanksgiving Long Weekend be filled with love, gratitude, and connection.