By : Ellie Greenspan
A few of the executive members of the McGill Scientific Writing Initiative came together to answer a few questions on how they care for their mental health. Below are some questions and answers! Feel free to look back at this blog post to receive inspiration on how to better your health.
What are some mental health resources that you have used?
I've used both the McGill Student Wellness Hub and BetterHelp, and I think both have pro's and con's. If it's one of your first times going to therapy or if you just want generalized help, the wellness hub is great! If you're looking for something non-specific and remote, BetterHelp has great options.
Sophia Tuch
What was a time when you struggled with mental health and how you are trying to help yourself?
I was recently diagnosed with a learning disability, and I've learned that advocating for yourself and what you're feeling is key. Talk to your physician first if you're experiencing issues with focus or learning in classes, and if you do find you have something, don't feel pressured to go one route over another! Therapy, medication, and counselling are all helpful and have their place, just advocate, advocate, advocate!
Sophia Tuch
What are some daily/weekly habits that improve your mental health?
Mine is habit tracking on Tangerine. I know my mental health skyrockets when I remember to hit my daily habits, no matter how small.
Sophia Tuch
Is there anything pertinent to you/something helpful McGill students and alumni should know?
Never feel like speaking up or talking about your mental health is weakness. I don't think one person on this earth doesn't go through something, and we're all in this together. Even if the first step is tiny, the more you reach out and find help, the better you'll feel for longer.
Sophia Tuch
What are some daily/weekly habits that improve your mental health?
Establishing daily habits to improve my mental health is really important to me, and can change depending on the day! One of my favourite ways to do this is by surrounding myself with people who lift me up, so often this routine will include having some family time (i.e., dinner all together), or time with my friends (i.e., study group, going to a movie or cafe). Other smaller habits that truly improve my mental health are taking some time to read a chapter of a good book, cooking a nice meal or going on a walk (the nice weather definitely helps!). Think of what lifts you up and make it a part of your busy schedule, it’s worth it!
Sydney Wasserman
What was a time when you struggled with mental health and how you are trying to help yourself?
As we all know, exams can be a stressful time, and it is easy to stop taking care of yourself. When I have the choice between taking a study break and studying one more lecture, I often choose studying the lecture. However, what I noticed this semester is that I study better when I take more breaks and in a good mood. Sometimes, I am so tired that I don't feel so motivated to take a break or to de-stress, but these are the times I find it most important to do so. It helps me to go to the gym regularly, indulge in hobbies or spots, study with friends and connect with others.
Ellie Greenspan
What are some daily/weekly habits that improve your mental health?
A few things that I try to integrate in my schedule are, listening to podcasts of people that I look up to (Noam Raider- You are not too busy podcast and Your Angry Neighborhood Feminist are great!), dancing (even for 10 minutes alone), catching up with friends and family and studying next to friends at the library or outdoors.
Ellie Greenspan
Thank you for reading!
Mental health should be a number one priority, and speak to a professional and loved ones if you are struggling <3
Below are some McGill resources: