{"id":9219,"date":"2021-05-04T15:18:31","date_gmt":"2021-05-04T15:18:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/2021\/05\/04\/four-ways-to-practice-mental-health-hygiene\/"},"modified":"2026-04-30T10:54:09","modified_gmt":"2026-04-30T14:54:09","slug":"tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada","title":{"rendered":"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-template-selector templateSelector template__article articleSingle\" data-template=\"article\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container tabListStickyWrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container__hero is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container__hero__inner is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<span class=\"rbc-yoast-breadcrum-span\"><span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/\">Home<\/a><\/span><\/span>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__featuredImage__group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__title__group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><h1 class=\"wp-block-post-title\">10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health<\/h1>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__date__group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-post-date\"><time datetime=\"2026-04-29T18:33:01.207Z\">April 29, 2026<\/time><\/div>\n\n\n<span class=\"wp-block-rbc-html-element articleSingle__readTime\">18 Min Read<\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__author__group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/Avatar.webp?quality=80&w=128\" alt=\"Fiorella Grossi\">\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__author__details is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<span class=\"wp-block-rbc-html-element articleSingle__author__name\">Fiorella Grossi<\/span>\n\n\n\n<span class=\"wp-block-rbc-html-element articleSingle__author__designation\">Insurance Writer<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"articleSingle__featuredImage wp-block-post-featured-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?quality=80&amp;w=1024\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health\" style=\"object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?resize=768,512 768w, https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?resize=420,280 420w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container__main is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container__page__nav is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\t\t<div class=\"socials-block\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"socials-block-title\">\n\t\t\tShare this article\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t<div class=\"social-links mob-mar-b-hlf mob-mar-t-hlf\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"social-button-wrapper sharing-custom sharing-email\" href=\"mailto:?subject=10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health &#038;body=Hi, I thought you might be interested in this article from RBC Insurance: https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\" aria-label=\"Email\">\n\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/plugins\/rbc-blocks\/assets\/img\/icons\/icon-email.svg\"\n\t\t\t\talt=\"envelope icon\">\n\t\t\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\tEmail\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div class=\"social-button-wrapper sharing-copy-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"sharing-custom sharing-copy\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\" aria-label=\"Copy URL\">\n\t\t\t<img\n\t\t\t\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/plugins\/rbc-blocks\/assets\/img\/icons\/icon-related.svg\"\n\t\t\t\talt=\"copy icon\">\n\t\t\t<span id=\"sharing-copyUrl-Label\">\n\t\t\t\tCopy URL\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/button>\n\t\t\t<input type=\"text\" class=\"sharing-copy-text\" aria-labelledby=\"sharing-copyUrl-Label\">\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n  \t\t<\/div>\t\n\t\t\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-tabs-list tabsList\" data-switch=\"lgBp\" data-target-heading=\"h2\"><p class=\"tabsList__heading\">On this page<\/p><div class=\"tabsList__wrapper\"><button class=\"selectDropdown__button\" aria-haspopup=\"listbox\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><span class=\"selectDropdown__title\">Why mental health matters to your overall well-being<\/span><span class=\"selectDropdown__chevron\"><\/span><\/button><ul class=\"tabsList__items selectDropdown__list\"><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item selected\"><a href=\"#h-why-mental-health-matters-to-your-overall-well-being\">Why mental health matters to your overall well-being<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-1-prioritize-physical-activity\">1. Prioritize physical activity<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-2-practice-mindfulness\">2. Practice Mindfulness<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-3-maintain-social-connections\">3. Maintain social connections<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-4-express-gratitude\">4. Express gratitude<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-5-sleep-well\">5. Sleep well<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-6-eat-a-healthy-diet\">6. Eat a healthy diet<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-7-spend-time-in-nature\">7. Spend time in nature<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-8-engage-in-hobbies\">8. Engage in hobbies<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-9-find-purpose\">9. Find purpose<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-10-seek-professional-support\">10. Seek professional support<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-the-role-of-disability-insurance-and-mental-health\">The role of disability insurance and mental health<\/a><\/li><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item \"><a href=\"#h-rbc-disability-insurance\">RBC Disability Insurance<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__content__main tabListHeadings is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<section class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-block  pos-rel\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-inner-block  section-inner\" style=\"border-radius:0x\">\n<p>People are talking about mental health more than ever \u2014 at work, at school, and around kitchen tables. That\u2019s progress. But awareness alone doesn\u2019t improve how we feel day to day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The reality is, many people are still struggling. In fact, Canadians report their mental health is <a href=\"https:\/\/cmhato.org\/news\/the-state-of-mental-health-in-canada-ground-breaking-cmha-report-reveals-troubling-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-42fea4b0\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"three times worse\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">three times worse<\/a> than before the COVID-19 pandemic and millions of people can\u2019t get the care they need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding mental health goes beyond recognizing when something\u2019s wrong. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/data\/gho\/data\/themes\/theme-details\/GHO\/mental-health#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20World%20Health%20Organization%20(WHO)%2C,stresses%20of%20life%20*%20Can%20work%20productively\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-38c345c7\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"The World Health Organization\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The World Health Organization<\/a> defines mental health as a state of well-being \u2014 where you can handle everyday stress, work productively, and contribute to your community. In other words, it\u2019s not just about illness. Mental health is something everyone has, and it\u2019s vital to your overall health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This guide shares 10 practical, evidence-based ways to support your mental health in everyday life. They\u2019re simple, actionable, and designed to fit into busy routines. And while they can make a meaningful difference, they\u2019re not a substitute for professional care. If you\u2019re struggling, reaching out to a qualified healthcare provider is always the right call.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-mental-health-matters-to-your-overall-well-being\"><strong>Why mental health matters to your overall well-being<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Think of mental health less like a light switch and more like a dial \u2014 one that shifts over time as life changes. Things like work demands, financial pressures, and relationship stress can all move the dial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your mental health absorbs every bit of it. And when it&#8217;s stretched, you feel it in your sleep, your relationships, your ability to focus, your physical health. On the other hand, strong mental health can help you stay resilient, think more clearly, and be better equipped to handle whatever life throws at you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The good news? Research points to simple, everyday habits that can help keep that dial in a healthier place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-prioritize-physical-activity\">1. <strong>Prioritize physical activity<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to lift your mood or reduce stress and anxiety, put exercise at the top of your list. Research shows that exercise \u2014 in almost any form \u2014 can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, making it one of the most powerful tools you have to support your mental health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How is this possible? When you get your heart rate up, your brain releases chemical messengers like serotonin and dopamine \u2014 <a class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/mind-and-mood\/feel-good-hormones-how-they-affect-your-mind-mood-and-body\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-63f56845\" data-dig-label=\"the \u201cfeel-good\u201d hormones\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\">the \u201cfeel-good\u201d hormones<\/a> that affect your mood, mind, and body \u2014 along with endorphins that help ease stress and anxiety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are long-term benefits, too. Regular exercise can also lower levels of cortisol \u2014 your body\u2019s main stress hormone \u2014 helping you manage stress better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You don\u2019t have to be a fitness fanatic to reap the exercise rewards. According to the <a href=\"https:\/\/csepguidelines.ca\/guidelines\/adults-18-64\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-edfffc5a\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines<\/a>, adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic activity per week \u2014 about 20 minutes a day \u2014 plus muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are a few tips to get moving:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Break it up:<\/strong> You don\u2019t need to do it all at once. Short bursts of five to 10 minutes throughout the day add up.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Make it social:<\/strong> A workout buddy can make exercise more fun and enjoyable, and help you stay on track. Accountability has been shown to help people stay more consistent than doing it solo.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Join a team:<\/strong> Recreational sports add a social boost, and in particular, team sports may have a big impact on mental well-being.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Try something new:<\/strong> An indoor trampoline park, a dance class, or hiking on a new trail can make fitness feel less like a chore.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Get creative:<\/strong> Walk around while on calls, take the stairs instead of the elevator, bike to run errands, toss a frisbee with your dog. There are endless options for integrating movement into your day.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns, it\u2019s always a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_1818831278_edit.webp?quality=80&amp;w=1024\" alt=\"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health\" class=\"wp-image-37059\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_1818831278_edit.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_1818831278_edit.webp?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_1818831278_edit.webp?resize=768,512 768w, https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_1818831278_edit.webp?resize=420,280 420w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-practice-mindfulness\">2. Practice Mindfulness<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At its core, mindfulness means being fully present in the moment. Rather than replaying the past or anticipating the future \u2014 where worry tends to live \u2014 you simply anchor your attention to <em>right now<\/em>. Studies show that practising mindfulness can reduce&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/39525940\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-e7077553\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"anxiety\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">anxiety<\/a> and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41562-024-01907-7\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-9381dacb\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"stress\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">stress<\/a> \u2014 and it&#8217;s more accessible than most people think.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You don&#8217;t need a cushion, a quiet room, or a meditation retreat. Mindfulness can happen while doing everyday activities \u2014 washing dishes, walking, or brushing your teeth. When your mind wanders \u2014 and it will \u2014 just notice the thought and gently return your focus to your breath. That simple act, repeated, is where the benefit builds. It\u2019s the antidote to rumination \u2014 the habit of replaying negative, stressful thoughts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some mindfulness tips from the professionals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Pause and notice:<\/strong> Take a moment to check in with what you\u2019re doing. Tap into your five senses \u2014 what can you see, hear, or feel?<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Focus on your breath:<\/strong> Inhale slowly through your nose, and notice your breath as it expands your lungs like a balloon. Then exhale just as slowly.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Mentally scan your body<\/strong>: Sit or lie down and focus on what each part of your body is feeling. If one part feels tense, relax the muscle.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Take it outside:<\/strong> Walk outside in nature and tune into the sights, sounds, and smells (more on nature\u2019s benefits later).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-maintain-social-connections\">3. <strong>Maintain social connections<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We&#8217;ve never been more digitally connected \u2014 yet many people feel more alone than ever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Loneliness&nbsp;has become a public health crisis around the world. Chronic loneliness and isolation are linked to a higher risk for depression, anxiety, and even physical health issues like dementia, heart disease, and diabetes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The&nbsp;COVID pandemic didn\u2019t create the problem, but it just amplified it \u2014 shifting more of our work and interactions online, and disrupting daily social rhythms that once kept us connected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The impact is measurable. According to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statcan.gc.ca\/o1\/en\/plus\/6735-youve-got-friend-me?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-b3fdb862\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Statistics Canada\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Statistics Canada<\/a>, more than one in 10 Canadians (13 per cent) over age 15 said that they always or often felt lonely in 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The remedy is simple, even if it takes effort: more real-world connection. <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC10915202\/#:~:text=Previous%20studies%20highlight%20social%20support's,its%20impact%20on%20perceived%20stress.\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-37e98c08\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Research\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Research<\/a> backs it up: supportive relationships can help buffer against stress and improve mental well-being.&nbsp; While virtual connection can help, in-person interaction is where the deeper benefits lie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tips for getting and staying connected:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Prioritize in-person time:<\/strong> Even a brief coffee with a friend can lift your mood. If \u201cIRL\u201d isn\u2019t possible, opt for a phone call or video chat \u2014 it\u2019s often more meaningful than a text or DM.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Put it on the calendar:<\/strong> Social plans don\u2019t just happen. Schedule a social outing the same way you would a work meeting \u2014 plan and put it in your calendar.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Join something:<\/strong> A book club, a volunteer organization, a community group, even a pop choir \u2014 anything that creates built-in opportunities to regularly connect with people.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Reconnect with loved ones:<\/strong> Check in with someone you haven&#8217;t heard from in a while \u2014 it likely matters more than you think.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-express-gratitude\">4. <strong>Express gratitude<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Gratitude isn\u2019t just a feel-good habit \u2014 it can shift how you think over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Expressing gratitude works like exercise: it triggers the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain. <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/37585888\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-f8a75cab\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Research suggests\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Research suggests<\/a> that getting into the habit of noticing what\u2019s going well can lift your mood and help take the edge off stress and anxiety. Like any habit, the more you practise it, the more natural it becomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a variety of ways to cultivate a more grateful outlook:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Keep a regular gratitude journal<\/strong>: Write down three things you\u2019re grateful for each day, and reflect on each one of them. They don\u2019t have to be big, but try to be specific. Instead of \u201cI&#8217;m thankful for my family,\u201d try, \u201cI&#8217;m thankful my child cleaned her room yesterday.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Make it a ritual:<\/strong> At meals, take turns sharing one thing you appreciated about the day before chowing down.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Use visual cues:<\/strong> Stick the word \u201cgratitude\u201d somewhere in your house or office; whenever you see it, take a moment to think about it. &nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Say it out loud:<\/strong> Take a moment to thank someone directly, whether by phone, face-to-face, or in a message.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>If you meditate<\/strong>: End every session by reflecting on what you are grateful for and sit with that for a few minutes.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Try \u201chabit stacking\u201d:<\/strong> Practise gratitude whenever you\u2019re doing something routine, like thinking of one thing you appreciate while brushing your teeth or washing the dishes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-sleep-well\">5. <strong>Sleep well<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Sleep isn\u2019t just downtime \u2014 it\u2019s when your brain resets, processes the day, and restores your energy for what\u2019s next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sleep is so important to health that it\u2019s considered one of the three pillars of a healthy lifestyle by the <a class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" href=\"https:\/\/csepguidelines.ca\/guidelines\/adults-18-64\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-1bb824d9\" data-dig-label=\"Canadian 24-hour Movement Guidelines\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\">Canadian 24-hour Movement Guidelines<\/a>. Adults up to age 64 are encouraged to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night \u2014 yet about one-third of Canadians fall short of &nbsp;that. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The impact goes beyond feeling tired. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/public-health\/services\/publications\/healthy-living\/canadian-adults-getting-enough-sleep-infographic.html\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-92524480\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Statistics Canada\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Statistics Canada<\/a> reports that people who don\u2019t get enough sleep are more than twice as likely to report poor mental health than those who get enough rest. Over time, lack of sleep can trigger or worsen anxiety, depression, and irritability, making it hard to cope with everyday problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mhrc.ca\/aboutmh-goodmh#:~:text=It%20is%20well%20established%20that,much%20is%20right%20for%20you.\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-836542cc\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Mental Health Research Canada\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mental Health Research Canada<\/a><\/strong> recommends a few ways to improve your sleep hygiene:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Stick to a schedule:<\/strong> Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day \u2014 including weekends \u2014 to help regulate your body clock.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Limit screens before bed:<\/strong> Put away your phone or laptop at least one hour before you go to bed.&nbsp;Blue light can interrupt your natural circadian rhythm by signaling to your body that it\u2019s time to be awake.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Curb caffeine and alcohol intake<\/strong>: Avoid caffeine, which is a stimulant, about six to eight hours before bedtime. Alcohol may make you drowsy at first \u2014 it\u2019s a depressant \u2014 but it can disrupt deeper, more restorative sleep. If possible, avoid it three to four hours before going to sleep.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Start a sleep ritual:<\/strong> A calming routine before bed \u2014 reading, a warm bath, light stretching, a deep breathing practice \u2014 signals to your brain that it\u2019s time to rest.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Make your bedroom dedicated to sleep<\/strong>: &nbsp;Keep your bedroom free of screens (including a TV), use blackout curtains, and make your bed as comfortable as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-eat-a-healthy-diet\">6. Eat a healthy diet<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>What you eat doesn\u2019t just affect your physical health \u2014 it plays a role in how you feel, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Research indicates that people who follow more \u201ctraditional\u201d diets \u2014 like the&nbsp;Mediterranean diet that\u2019s rich in vegetables, fruit, legumes, whole grains, and healthy fats \u2014 have a 25 to 35 per cent lower risk of depression compared to those eating a \u201cWestern\u201d diet high in ultra-processed foods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Part of that comes down to gut health. Your gastrointestinal system communicates directly with your brain, and inside it lives your microbiome \u2014 trillions of bacteria that regulate mood by producing neurotransmitters like serotonin. Diets built around whole foods tend to support these beneficial bacteria that influence mental well-being, while ultra-processed foods and sugars can disrupt the balance.  <a href=\"https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jamanetworkopen\/fullarticle\/2809727\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-4968ae20\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"One study\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">One study<\/a> found that people with diets high in ultra-processed foods had the highest risk of depression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eating well is easier said than done \u2014 life gets busy. But a few small habits can make a real difference:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Plan ahead:<\/strong>&nbsp;Map out a few healthy meals for the week and make a shopping list, so key ingredients are on hand to quickly pull together meals. That way, last-minute takeout becomes less tempting.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Cook in batches<\/strong>:&nbsp;Prepare meals in advance and freeze portions so you\u2019ll have healthy options on busy nights. Make it a family affair and get everyone involved.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Stock smart shortcuts<\/strong>:&nbsp;Frozen vegetables, bagged salad kits, and low-sodium canned beans are quick, nutritious options.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Eat mindfully:<\/strong> Eating without distractions can improve your ability to recognize fullness faster, enjoy the food more, and curb emotional eating. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0195666324006500\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-52d830b3\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"One study\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">One study<\/a> found that adults tend to eat more when looking at screens.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-7-spend-time-in-nature\">7. Spend time in nature<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Spending time in nature is one of the simplest things you can do for your mental health. <a href=\"https:\/\/cpa.ca\/psychology-works-fact-sheet-benefits-of-nature-exposure\/#:~:text=If%20you%20have%20limited%20mobility,Meet%20friends%20outdoors%20to%20socialize\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-edf1d070\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"The scientific evidence is clear\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The scientific evidence is clear<\/a>: exposure to nature can help lower cortisol, restore a sense of calm, and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The opposite is also true \u2014 <em>not&nbsp;<\/em>spending time in nature can have negative effects on your mood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Canada, some doctors have even started writing \u201cnature prescriptions\u201d for their patients. The dosage? Take two hours per week in green or blue spaces. Just a few minutes outside can improve your mood, while spending 20 minutes&nbsp;at a time is ideal to lower stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You don\u2019t need to head deep into the wilderness to see the benefits. Easy ways to bring more nature into your routine include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Start your day outside:<\/strong> Before reaching for your phone, take a short walk, step onto your balcony and breathe in fresh air, or sit by a window getting some sunlight \u2014 all will set the tone for your day.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Eat alfresco:<\/strong> A meal or coffee outside or near an open window can shift your mood.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Bring nature indoors<\/strong>: Add potted plants to your space, a small water fountain on your desk, or an herb garden in your kitchen.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Take the gym outside:<\/strong> Bring your yoga mat to the park, run through a ravine, or look for outdoor gyms, calisthenics parks, and street workout spots around your city.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Embrace the seasons<\/strong>: Find outdoor activities you can stick with year-round \u2014 from hiking in summer to snowshoeing or skating in winter.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Try <a href=\"https:\/\/globalwellnessinstitute.org\/wellnessevidence\/forest-bathing\/forest-bathing-spotlight\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-d1f355b5\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"forest bathing\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">forest bathing<\/a><\/strong>: This Japanese practice, known as <em>shinrin-yoku<\/em>, involves slowing down and taking in the forest atmosphere using all of your senses. It\u2019s not just a walk or hike in the woods \u2014 it\u2019s slowly and mindfully immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest, or any area with a dense canopy of trees.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Grow something:<\/strong> Gardening can be relaxing and grounding. Plant flowers on the front lawn, a vegetable garden in the backyard, or even have one potted flower on a windowsill and watch it grow.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_offset_2285970803_edit.webp?quality=80&amp;w=1024\" alt=\"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health\" class=\"wp-image-37027\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_offset_2285970803_edit.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_offset_2285970803_edit.webp?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_offset_2285970803_edit.webp?resize=768,512 768w, https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_offset_2285970803_edit.webp?resize=420,280 420w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-8-engage-in-hobbies\">8. <strong>Engage in hobbies<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You may think of hobbies as a nice way to pass the time \u2014 something frivolous, easily bumped when life gets busy. But spending time building model airplanes or knitting a sweater is doing more good than you think.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tandfonline.com\/doi\/full\/10.1080\/01612840.2025.2512006#d1e175\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-a3a7057a\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Research shows\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Research shows<\/a> that people who regularly engage in a hobby purely for enjoyment \u2014 with no financial or professional gain \u2014 report significantly lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/News-room\/News-Releases\/New-APA-Poll-Americans-Who-Engage-in-Creative-Acti\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-d79459fd\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Creative activities\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Creative activities<\/a>, like painting, dancing, or playing music, may offer even greater benefits.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What makes them so powerful? Part of it is rooted in something psychologists call \u201cflow\u201d \u2014 complete absorption in an activity where you lose track of time, and your inner critic goes quiet. It gives your mind a break from constant thinking and worry. In fact, psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, who pioneered the concept, described it as \u201cthe secret to happiness.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not sure where to start?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Think back to what you loved doing as a child:<\/strong> List out all the things you loved to do before you became an adult with responsibilities, like drawing, building things, or playing music. Those instincts don\u2019t disappear.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Try something with your hands<\/strong>: Activities like pottery, woodworking, cooking, or gardening can be grounding, helping you focus on the moment.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Follow your curiosity<\/strong>:&nbsp;Pick something you\u2019ve always wanted to try \u2014 a language, photography, or a new skill \u2014 and give it a go.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Match your energy:<\/strong>&nbsp;If you\u2019re overstimulated most of the day, try quiet, solitary hobbies like puzzles or&nbsp;knitting. If you feel isolated, seek social hobbies like taking a class in ballroom dancing or painting.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Look locally<\/strong>: Recreation centres, libraries, or community colleges may offer something close to home. Or browse <a href=\"https:\/\/www.meetup.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-81423d29\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Meetup\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Meetup<\/a> for local events or a hobby you\u2019re interested in.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Be okay with being a beginner<\/strong>: You don\u2019t have to be good at a hobby for it to be worth your time. The enjoyment is the point.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-9-find-purpose\">9. Find purpose<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Having a sense of purpose \u2014 feeling that what you do matters and that you\u2019re contributing something bigger than yourself \u2014 is closely linked to better mental health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/mind-and-mood\/10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-357d8945\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Harvard Medical School\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Harvard Medical School<\/a> suggests that people with a stronger sense of purpose tend to perceive stress as less overwhelming and cope better. But purpose doesn\u2019t have to mean changing the world. It can be found in small, everyday acts, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A few ways to cultivate purpose include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Get clear on what matters to you:<\/strong> Your values are a compass \u2014 shaping how you spend your time, what causes you care about, and what work energizes you. Notice where they show up in your daily life, and where they don&#8217;t. That gap is often where purpose is waiting.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Give back:<\/strong>&nbsp;You may have heard the saying, \u201cOne of the best ways to help ourselves is to help others\u201d. Volunteering can help you do just that.&nbsp; Think about what concerns you \u2014 locally or globally \u2014 and explore opportunities where you can lend a hand. It can help you feel like you\u2019re part of something bigger than yourself, and make you more hopeful for the future \u2014 &nbsp;a&nbsp;key element&nbsp;for better&nbsp;mental health, resilience, and&nbsp;healing.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Use your experience:<\/strong> Think about the obstacles you&#8217;ve overcome. Is there a way to help others navigate the same thing?<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Become a mentor:<\/strong>&nbsp;Mentoring a colleague, student, or community member can be meaningful for both of you.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Find meaning in your everyday roles:<\/strong>&nbsp;The impact you have on others may be more significant than you realize \u2014 even on ordinary days. Noticing how your values show up in small, routine moments can turn the mundane into something more meaningful.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-10-seek-professional-support\">10. Seek professional support<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Self-care goes a long way, but knowing when to ask for help matters just as much.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Getting help isn\u2019t a sign of weakness, but strength. It\u2019s a smart, proactive step, and one of the most effective things you can do for your well-being. Therapy isn\u2019t only for moments of crisis, either \u2014 it can help you build resilience, gain perspective, and develop coping strategies before challenges escalate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to the <a href=\"https:\/\/bc.cmha.ca\/documents\/getting-help-for-mental-illnesses-2\/#:~:text=Losing%20interest%20in%20activities%20you,want%20to%20end%20your%20life\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-5eefcf7a\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Canadian Mental Health Association\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Canadian Mental Health Association<\/a>, it may be time to seek professional support if you notice changes like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Feeling persistently angry or sad for little or no reason<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Having strange thoughts or hearing things that aren\u2019t there<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Often feeling run down or a bit sick, even though doctors can\u2019t find a reason<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Changes in your usual eating habits or sleeping patterns<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Worrying excessively about situations that are unlikely or out of proportion<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Missing work or school more often<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Using alcohol or substances to cope with changes in your life<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Avoiding people, even family and friends you usually enjoy seeing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Thoughts of harming yourself<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If any of these sound familiar, you\u2019re not alone \u2014 and support is available:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Check your provincial or territorial health plan<\/strong>: Some cover visits to a psychologist or social worker.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Look into your Employee Assistance Program (EAP):<\/strong> If your employer offers one, it typically includes free, confidential counselling sessions.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Talk to your doctor:<\/strong> A family physician or walk-in clinic can provide referrals and help you navigate your options.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Explore trusted resources:<\/strong> Programs like <a href=\"https:\/\/connexontario.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-f7a23da9\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"ConnexOntario\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ConnexOntario<\/a> can help you find mental health services in your area.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-role-of-disability-insurance-and-mental-health\">The role of disability insurance and mental health<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Small, consistent steps can make a real difference to your mental well-being. But sometimes, despite your best efforts, a mental health condition can become serious enough to prevent you from working. That\u2019s not a failure \u2014 it\u2019s a reality that many Canadians face. According to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.camh.ca\/en\/professionals\/treating-conditions-and-disorders\/disability-and-insurance-claims-in-primary-care\" target=\"_blank\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-5af335c8\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Centre for Addiction and Mental Health\" class=\"rbc-link-format externalsite-link\" data-icon-class=\"externalsite-link\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Centre for Addiction and Mental Health<\/a>, mental health claims are now the largest category of short- and long-term disability cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/health-insurance\/disability-insurance\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-ca125de7\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Disability insurance\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">Disability insurance<\/a> exists for exactly this reason. If a mental health condition, such as severe anxiety or depression, prevents you from working, disability insurance may replace a portion of your income. Easing your financial stress during an already difficult time gives you breathing room to focus on your treatment and getting better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read more&nbsp;: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/what-is-disability-insurance\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-afdaa1d5\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"What is disability insurance?\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">What is disability insurance?<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/health-insurance\/compare-disability-insurance\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HealthInsurance-37032-ac6356c5\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HealthInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"RBC disability insurance plans\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">RBC disability insurance plans<\/a> also include benefits like rehabilitation and job retraining to support your transition back to work when you\u2019re ready. Knowing you have that support in place can bring peace of mind \u2014 a form of self-care in itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-inner-block  section-inner block-wpr bg-light-blue rounded-corners pos-rel pad-l pad-r mob-pad-r centered-block mob-pad-l pad-t mob-pad-t pad-b mob-pad-b\" style=\"border-radius:0x\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center mar-t mar-b-hlf mob-mar-b-hlf mob-mar-t\" id=\"h-rbc-disability-insurance\">RBC Disability Insurance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center mar-b-hlf mob-mar-b-hlf pad-r mob-pad-r pad-l mob-pad-l has-text-reg-font-size\">Help ensure your expenses are covered if you get sick or injured<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-a89b3969 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size aligncenter btn is-style-primary primary has-text-lg-font-size\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/health-insurance\/disability-insurance-quote\/index.html\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-dig-id=\"LP-285-476a44f4\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"button click\" data-dig-label=\"Get a quote-https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/health-insurance\/disability-insurance-quote\/index.html \">Get a quote<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center mar-t-hlf mob-mar-t-hlf pad-b mob-pad-b has-text-reg-font-size\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/health-insurance\/disability-insurance\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-273-18de2c2e\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Learn More\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">Learn More<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-default-collapsible\"><p><button class=\"collapse-toggle collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse2de7ba0a\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse2de7ba0a\" data-dig-id=\"LP-HomeInsurance-14506-2de7ba0a\" data-dig-category=\"LP-HomeInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"accordion closed\" action-closed=\"accordion closed\" action-opened=\"accordion open\" data-dig-label=\"Things Our Lawyers Want You to Know\"><div>Things Our Lawyers Want You to Know<\/div><\/button><\/p><div class=\"collapse-content collapse\" id=\"collapse2de7ba0a\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-collapsible-inner-block collapse-inner\">\n<p class=\"has-text-sm-font-size\">*Home and auto insurance products are distributed by RBC Insurance Agency Ltd. and underwritten by Aviva General Insurance Company. In Quebec, RBC Insurance Agency Ltd. Is registered as a damage insurance agency. As a result of government-run auto insurance plans, auto insurance is not available through RBC Insurance in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and British Columbia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-sm-font-size\">This article is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. Information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or any of its affiliates.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:31px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Self-care plays a role in maintaining your mental health. Here\u2019s some simple, actionable ways Canadians can prioritize their well-being.  <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":203,"featured_media":37060,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"templates\/new-rbci-design.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[46],"tags":[51,26,42],"article-type":[80],"ppma_author":[183],"class_list":["post-9219","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-health-insurance","tag-fitness-exercise","tag-health-and-wellness","tag-mental-health","article-type-advice-learning"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.3 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Self-care plays a role in maintaining your mental health. Here\u2019s some simple, actionable ways Canadians can prioritize their well-being.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Physical hygiene is important but healthy habits include your mind as well as your body. Here are 4 practices that can help protect your mental well-being.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"RBC Insurance\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:author\" content=\"Fiorella Grossi\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2021-05-04T15:18:31+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-04-30T14:54:09+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?quality=80\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"683\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/webp\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Fiorella Grossi\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:description\" content=\"Physical hygiene is important but healthy habits include your mind as well as your body. Here are 4 practices that can help protect your mental well-being.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Fiorella Grossi\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"46 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/advice-learning\\\/health-insurance\\\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/advice-learning\\\/health-insurance\\\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"heathersim\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/8afd25ed45bbca8bdedb2e034515d379\"},\"headline\":\"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health\",\"datePublished\":\"2021-05-04T15:18:31+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-04-30T14:54:09+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/advice-learning\\\/health-insurance\\\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":3464,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/advice-learning\\\/health-insurance\\\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/2\\\/2021\\\/06\\\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?quality=80\",\"keywords\":[\"Fitness Exercise\",\"Health and Wellness\",\"Mental Health\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Health Insurance\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/advice-learning\\\/health-insurance\\\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/advice-learning\\\/health-insurance\\\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\\\/\",\"name\":\"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/advice-learning\\\/health-insurance\\\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/advice-learning\\\/health-insurance\\\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/2\\\/2021\\\/06\\\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?quality=80\",\"datePublished\":\"2021-05-04T15:18:31+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-04-30T14:54:09+00:00\",\"description\":\"Self-care plays a role in maintaining your mental health. Here\u2019s some simple, actionable ways Canadians can prioritize their well-being.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/advice-learning\\\/health-insurance\\\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/advice-learning\\\/health-insurance\\\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/advice-learning\\\/health-insurance\\\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/2\\\/2021\\\/06\\\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?quality=80\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/2\\\/2021\\\/06\\\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?quality=80\",\"width\":1024,\"height\":683,\"caption\":\"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/advice-learning\\\/health-insurance\\\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Advice &amp; Learning\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/article-type\\\/advice-learning\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/\",\"name\":\"RBC Insurance\",\"description\":\"Personal Insurance\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"RBC Insurance\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/2\\\/2021\\\/06\\\/rbc-logo-shield.svg?quality=80&w=1024\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/2\\\/2021\\\/06\\\/rbc-logo-shield.svg?quality=80&w=1024\",\"width\":\"1024\",\"height\":\"1024\",\"caption\":\"RBC Insurance\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"description\":\"RBC Insurance offers personal insurance such as car, home, life, health, travel and creditor insurance, plus retirement investment solutions to Canadians.\",\"telephone\":\"1-800-769-2568\",\"legalName\":\"RBC Insurance Services Inc.\",\"numberOfEmployees\":{\"@type\":\"QuantitativeValue\",\"minValue\":\"1001\",\"maxValue\":\"5000\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/8afd25ed45bbca8bdedb2e034515d379\",\"name\":\"heathersim\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/2\\\/2021\\\/06\\\/Avatar.webp?quality=80&w=1285311091e249d85a89a1c2139527829f8\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/2\\\/2021\\\/06\\\/Avatar.webp?quality=80&w=128\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rbcinsurance.com\\\/en-ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/2\\\/2021\\\/06\\\/Avatar.webp?quality=80&w=128\",\"caption\":\"heathersim\"}}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health","description":"Self-care plays a role in maintaining your mental health. Here\u2019s some simple, actionable ways Canadians can prioritize their well-being.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health","og_description":"Physical hygiene is important but healthy habits include your mind as well as your body. Here are 4 practices that can help protect your mental well-being.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/","og_site_name":"RBC Insurance","article_author":"Fiorella Grossi","article_published_time":"2021-05-04T15:18:31+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-04-30T14:54:09+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1024,"height":683,"url":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?quality=80","type":"image\/webp"}],"author":"Fiorella Grossi","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_description":"Physical hygiene is important but healthy habits include your mind as well as your body. Here are 4 practices that can help protect your mental well-being.","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Fiorella Grossi","Est. reading time":"46 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/"},"author":{"name":"heathersim","@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/#\/schema\/person\/8afd25ed45bbca8bdedb2e034515d379"},"headline":"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health","datePublished":"2021-05-04T15:18:31+00:00","dateModified":"2026-04-30T14:54:09+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/"},"wordCount":3464,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?quality=80","keywords":["Fitness Exercise","Health and Wellness","Mental Health"],"articleSection":["Health Insurance"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/","url":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/","name":"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?quality=80","datePublished":"2021-05-04T15:18:31+00:00","dateModified":"2026-04-30T14:54:09+00:00","description":"Self-care plays a role in maintaining your mental health. Here\u2019s some simple, actionable ways Canadians can prioritize their well-being.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?quality=80","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?quality=80","width":1024,"height":683,"caption":"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/health-insurance\/tips-to-improve-mental-health-canada\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Advice &amp; Learning","item":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/article-type\/advice-learning\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"10 Tips to Improve Your Mental Health"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/","name":"RBC Insurance","description":"Personal Insurance","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/#organization","name":"RBC Insurance","url":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/rbc-logo-shield.svg?quality=80&w=1024","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/rbc-logo-shield.svg?quality=80&w=1024","width":"1024","height":"1024","caption":"RBC Insurance"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"description":"RBC Insurance offers personal insurance such as car, home, life, health, travel and creditor insurance, plus retirement investment solutions to Canadians.","telephone":"1-800-769-2568","legalName":"RBC Insurance Services Inc.","numberOfEmployees":{"@type":"QuantitativeValue","minValue":"1001","maxValue":"5000"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/#\/schema\/person\/8afd25ed45bbca8bdedb2e034515d379","name":"heathersim","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/Avatar.webp?quality=80&w=1285311091e249d85a89a1c2139527829f8","url":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/Avatar.webp?quality=80&w=128","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/Avatar.webp?quality=80&w=128","caption":"heathersim"}}]}},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/shutterstock_610963493_edit.webp?quality=80","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"authors":[{"term_id":183,"user_id":0,"is_guest":1,"slug":"fiorella-grossi","display_name":"Fiorella Grossi","avatar_url":{"url":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/Avatar.webp?quality=80&w=128","url2x":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/Avatar.webp?quality=80&w=128"},"0":null,"1":"","2":"","3":"","4":"","5":"","6":"","7":"","8":""}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9219","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/203"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=9219"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9219\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37123,"href":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9219\/revisions\/37123"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/37060"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=9219"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=9219"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=9219"},{"taxonomy":"article-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/article-type?post=9219"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=9219"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}