Introduction
World Mental Health Day on October 10 reminds us that mental health is a part of everyone’s wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel, and connect with others. For many people with disabilities, mental health support is just as important as physical or social care.
This year, we are invited to reflect on what it means to create communities where mental health is valued, supported, and talked about openly. For people involved in home sharing, it is also a reminder that caring for others begins with caring for ourselves.
Understanding Mental Health in the Disability Community
Mental health challenges can affect anyone. However, people with disabilities often face additional barriers such as social isolation, stigma, or a lack of accessible services. Support workers and home sharing providers may also experience emotional stress or burnout from the demands of caregiving.
Recognizing early signs of stress, anxiety, or depression helps individuals and families get help before issues become overwhelming. Mental health care does not always require clinical treatment. It can begin with listening, empathy, and connection.
Supporting Mental Health Every Day
- Create Safe Spaces for Conversation
Talking about mental health helps reduce stigma. Check in with the people you support and ask how they are feeling. Sometimes a simple question like “How are you really doing?” can make a big difference. - Build Daily Routines
Structure can bring comfort and stability. Encourage consistent sleep, meals, and regular activities. Routines help promote a sense of control and calm. - Stay Connected
Isolation increases stress. Social connection, whether through community events, shared meals, or video calls with friends, helps maintain mental balance. - Practice Self Care for Providers
Supporting others can be emotionally heavy. Make time for rest, nature walks, reading, or hobbies that help you recharge. Asking for help when you need it is a sign of strength, not weakness. - Seek Professional Help When Needed
If emotional distress continues or worsens, reach out to a professional. Many organizations in British Columbia offer free or low-cost mental health support.
Building a Culture of Care
When communities openly discuss mental health, people feel safer reaching out for help. Creating this culture begins with respect and understanding.
In home sharing, this means:
- Listening without judgment
- Encouraging emotional expression
- Respecting personal boundaries
- Promoting balance between caring for others and caring for oneself
These values reflect the essence of inclusion: everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.
Regional Mental Health Resources in British Columbia
Fraser Region
- Fraser Health Mental Health and Substance Use Services provides crisis response, counselling, and community support.
- Sources Community Resource Centres offer counselling, wellness programs, and peer support.
Vancouver Coastal East
- The Kettle Society provides mental health outreach, meals, and social connection programs.
Vancouver Coastal West
- North Shore Disability Resource Centre supports individuals and families through inclusive community programs.
Vancouver Island
- Island Health – Mental Health and Substance Use Services offers regional crisis and wellness support.
- Wachiay Friendship Centre (Courtenay) provides culturally grounded wellness programs for Indigenous and non-Indigenous families.
Interior
- Canadian Mental Health Association Kelowna provides wellness programs and peer support for individuals and caregivers.
North
- Prince George Native Friendship Centre provides culturally based counselling, wellness, and family support programs.
Province Wide
- Here2Talk offers free counselling for post-secondary students in British Columbia.
- 310 Mental Health Support Line is available 24 hours a day by calling 310 6789 (no area code needed).
- Foundry BC provides mental health and wellness services for youth and families both in person and online.
Closing Thoughts
World Mental Health Day reminds us that wellness begins with compassion. Every person deserves to feel supported, valued, and cared for.
For those in the home sharing community, this day is a chance to pause and reflect on how kindness, listening, and self-care can strengthen both individuals and relationships.
Mental health is not a separate part of life. It is the heart of connection, inclusion, and resilience. When we take care of the mind, we care for the whole community.
