Mental Health Week kicks off May 1
From May 1 to May 5, Employee Wellness Services is offering a variety of events and programming for Queen’s employees in support and celebration of Mental Health Week. Led by the Canadian Mental Health Association, the week reminds us to focus on our own personal mental health while also raising awareness about the supports in place. This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of sharing stories and experiences, both collectively and individually, about mental health.
Several events and programming are planned for the week. Highlights include:
- Mental Health Awareness (Webinar)
Monday, May 1, 10-11 am
Participants will be encouraged to shatter popular myths and misconceptions about mental health and to increase their understanding of the causes and symptoms of mental disorders.
- All Levels Yoga (In-person)
Monday, May 1, 4:30-5:30 pm
Strengthen, stretch, and sweat in this hatha-based yoga class that incorporates meditation and breath-work with classic yoga poses. With variations offered in each pose, you'll learn the foundations of yoga and find opportunities to challenge yourself in new ways. Suitable for all participant levels. Taught by Queens’s employees, offered exclusively to Queen’s employees.
Register online.
- Art Therapy (In-person)
Tuesday, May 2, 10-11 am
Art Therapy is the use of the creative process partnered with psychotherapy which offers a chance for self-exploration and understanding. Participants will be using art as a tool for expression and discussion in this one-hour in-person session.
Register online.
- Triple Threat (In-person)
Tuesday, May 2, Noon-1 pm
Core. Cardio. Strength. This workout is designed to target all major muscles groups and torch calories. Work towards a healthier mind and body as you stay active during your week with this energetic class. No matter your experience or fitness level this class is for you. Taught by Queens’s employees, offered exclusively to Queen’s employees.
Register online.
- Stress Reduction Tool Kit (Webinar)
Wednesday, May 3, 10-11 am
How do you know you are stressed? Do you recognize the symptoms of stress? Explore the newest research and what experts are saying about good and bad stress. Participants will gain the tools to manage stress, including mindful communication.
- Neuroplasticity Workshop (In-person)
Thursday, May 4, 10-10:45 am
Neuroplasticity is the ability to create and mold the connections in the brain and change the brain itself. This workshop will teach participants how brain fitness works and provide an opportunity to put it into practice.
Register online.
- Indoor Cycle (In-person)
Thursday, May 4, Noon-1 pm
Discover varying terrains while riding along to a unique playlist. Each instructor brings a different style to their class to give you a different challenge each ride. Cycle Fit is meant to make you sweat, increase your heart rate and have fun! Perfect for new and advanced riders. Taught by Queens’s employees, offered exclusively to Queen’s employees.
Register online.
- Nature Walk (In-person)
Friday, May 5, Noon-1 pm
Guided by passages from “Wild Calm: Finding Mindfulness in Forest Bathing” by Joan Vorderbruggen, and the poetry of Mary Oliver, Interfaith Chaplain Erin will lead us through times of movement, stillness, contemplation, and reflection as we ground ourselves in nature. This is a great opportunity for intention and connection.
Register online.
- Digital Story Wall (virtual)
Ongoing
Collectively and individually, we have multiple layers and stories that make us who we are. Take time to share your story about mental health on the Digital Story Wall. Stories can be shared anonymously throughout the week.
Full event details and offerings can be found on the HR Intranet. Ongoing, confidential support for staff and faculty is also available through the Employee and Family Assistance Program.
Note: This article originally appeared in the Queen's Gazette.