My Story: Mental Health Week at HWDSB
May 1-7 marks Mental Health Week in Ontario, with the 2023 theme being “My Story.” 
Each year, 1 in 5 Canadians experience a mental illness or a mental health issue. Collectively and individually, we have multiple layers and stories that make us who we are.
We asked HWDSB staff to share their story surrounding mental health to open up conversations and help reduce stigma. Read the interview below with Lisgar Elementary School teacher, Kim Baker to learn about the personal strategies she utilizes to support her mental health and well-being.
Question: What does mental health and well-being mean to you?
Answer: Mental health and well-being means generally and authentically feeling positive, being able to take life’s bumps in stride.
Question: How is mental health and well-being a part of your everyday life?
Answer: Mental health is an important part of my everyday. I’ve learned to prioritize my needs. I can easily feel overwhelmed by the chaos and business of the classroom and I find I need to make quiet time for myself everyday. During the spring and summer that often means a great deal of time in “green spaces” and all year round I love to tend to my plants. I also try to meditate and do physical activity as often as I can.
Question: Why is it important for you to take care of your mental health and well-being?
Answer: For me taking care of my mental health as best I can is extremely important for my ability to function successfully and to be able to be emotionally available for my children. When I am not in a good place, I find it challenging to regulate my emotions and I am so depleted that I have nothing to give the people I love the most.
Question: What is your favourite self-care practice and why?
Answer: I think it would be a tie between Yoga and being in/tending to nature. In both of these things I find the same sense of being connected to something both within and outside of myself. I get a deep sense of peace and am fully present in the moment.
Spring Into Wellness Staff Fair
On May 4, HWDSB staff gathered at the Education Centre for the Spring Into Wellness Fair!
A day focused on mental health and well-being, the Fair hosts local organizations who provide accessible resources to help guests take care of their mind, body, and relationships with others.
Check out the video below for a Spring Into Wellness Fair recap.
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Updated on Friday, May 05, 2023.