Winter is dragging on a lot longer than usual. Temperatures are still averaging below zero as we head into April. 

Dusti Hennenfent, Acting Branch Director of Canadian Mental Health Association Moose Jaw Branch, has a few tips on how to improve mental health as winter comes to a close. 

"One thing that has consistently been shown to improve mental health is exercise," Hennenfent remarked. "I'm always going to advocate taking advantage of better weather conditions to walk, ride a bike, or anything that gets you up and moving."

Hennenfent mentioned that longer days and more sun can improve mental health as well. Not only does the warmer weather feel nice, but people are also getting a higher source of Vitamin D. 

Although exercise is a great way to improve mental health, there are people out there who may not always have the option of being active, such as older folks or people with physical disabilities. Hennenfent assures that there are alternate ways for people with these challenges to improve their mental health as well. 

"Good social relationships and social opportunities are real protective factors when it comes to mental health," Hennenfent commented. "Social supports can look like people who are offering emotional support, practical help, and phone calls."

Hennenfent believes that technology can be a huge help in communication, but can also be a hindrance to mental health. She emphasized the importance of balance and moderating the use of technology in terms of mental health's sake. 

Other tips that Hennenfent mentioned include making sure you are eating healthy, getting sufficient sleep, and making meaningful connections in your life. 

The Moose Jaw Branch of Canadian Mental Health Association offers peer support, psychosocial activities (i.e. Warrior games, baseball games), advocacy, public education work, and vocational programs for those who are struggling with mental health in an employment situation.

If you think these programs would benefit you, give Canadian Mental Health Association Moose Jaw Branch a call at (306) 692-4240 or pay them a visit at 326 High St W.