As 2021 comes to an end - wait, how did this year go by so quickly?! It does not seem that long ago when last winter we were so happy to say goodbye to 2020. Although we are still facing this global pandemic, the increase in vaccine rates gives us hope that we will soon see an end or at least the management of this terrible virus.  

The team at mindyourmind has had to adjust, pivot, flex, modify, alter, rejig, revamp, change, rework (pick one!) our Design Lab process through these times, and I think we can all agree that it has been quite successful, given the circumstances. With the majority of our day to day working remotely, we strive to manage our Zoom fatigue while balancing our own mental health and self care. 

Working with hundreds of young people this past year, we have co-developed some really amazing self care booklets; if you would like a copy contact us at info@mindyourmind.ca. These journal books have been shared far and wide across Canada, and we are so grateful to all the passionate youth and young adults that we work with. They continue to inspire and energize us, continuing the important conversations around mental health and advocating for real change in our communities.   

We are also so grateful for our community partners, who have all contributed to the mindyourmind program in various capacities - school boards, Universities, mental health organizations, and the government of Canada for supporting our youthexperts initiative. Their support has allowed us to reach more youth across the country.  

These past couple of years have been difficult to say the least, and we have seen a marked increase in mental health issues since the start of the pandemic.  We also acknowledge that the holidays bring mixed emotions for many, and can be very challenging. If you are alone over the holidays and looking for some tips on coping here are some ideas and reflections for you;

• 20 Things to Do When You Are Alone on the Holidays
• Coping with Winter and the Holidays
• 12 Days of Self Care Challenge!

If you are struggling, please reach out to a friend, a loved one or a professional. If you are in crisis, are having thoughts of suicide or thoughts of harming someone else, please call 911 and get help immediately. For more options and ways to get help, please visit our Help Section.

If you're stressed out, play Holiday Squish 'Em! The Wellness Section is another great place where you can get daily tips on how to cope, stay well or achieve personal growth. Browse the site and see what you can find to get inspired.

We wish you a safe and restful holiday season. 

Take care, 

The mindyourmind team.