Exploring Compassion during Mental Health Week

May 6-12 is Mental Health Week in Canada. This year's theme is Compassionate Connections.

Compassion is the practice of welcoming suffering with kindness. Compassion is being kind to others and showing that kindness to ourselves.

Kathryn Fix, clinical co-ordinator and counselor at the University of Winnipeg's Student Counseling Services, said compassion plays an important role in mental health in the Duckworth Centre's Ground Floor Wellness Center (1D24).

Check your self-talk, especially when things are difficult or stressful.

Katherine Fix

“When we empathize with others, it not only improves our mood, but it also releases the feel-good hormone oxytocin, which helps reduce stress,” Fix said. “When we practice self-compassion, it helps us manage difficult situations better, makes us more satisfied with our lives, and makes it easier to stay motivated even after failure.”

Empathy in the workplace and classroom can improve interpersonal relationships and create a supportive atmosphere.

“Offer empathy to those around you and try to understand people and where they're feeling,” Fix said. “Celebrating even the smallest victories by encouraging colleagues and classmates and offering positive reinforcement boosts morale and creates a positive environment.”

Inclusiveness is another dimension of compassion.

“Make an effort to include all team members in discussions and activities, and make sure everyone feels valued and heard,” Fix said. “Also, be on the lookout for signs that someone may be struggling emotionally or academically. Reach out in person to express concerns and offer support or resources. “

We are often our own harshest critics. Negative self-talk can make it difficult to practice self-compassion, especially during the stressful time of the school year. The Fix shared some helpful tips to help those trying to incorporate more self-compassion into their daily lives.

“First, talk to yourself when you're going through difficult or stressful times like exams, presentations, or getting a lower-than-expected grade,” Fix said. “If you find yourself in that negative internal dialogue, take a moment and ask yourself, 'How would I talk to my friend if I were in the same situation?' Then apply that answer to yourself.”

Mindfulness, or being in the moment, also promotes self-compassion.

“Notice without judgment any thoughts, feelings, or sensations that come up,” Fix said. “Don't try to define or define success, just observe with interest.”

Planning a self-care break is another strategy.

“If you find that your inner critic is getting really loud, it can be helpful,” Fix said. “Be intentional by stopping what you're doing and do something for yourself. Go for a walk or invite a good friend.”

Social media and mental well-being

An upcoming UWinnipeg webinar will explore the topic of social media and mental well-being. Join the Wellness Center for this special edition of the Webinar on Wednesday, May 15th from 12:30 to 1:00 p.m.

A peer wellness teacher explores social media use from a student perspective, explores the importance of being mindful online, and shares tips and tricks for healthy social media experiences. Registration is available online.

Use the hashtags #KindnessConnects and #MentalHealthWeek in your social media posts about Mental Health Week throughout the week.

Explore wellness resources

Mental Health Week is a great time to check out the Student Wellness section of the UWinnipeg website. There you will find information about campus wellness services, including free counseling and wellness services offered to all students at the Wellness Center.

The Student Wellness home page also includes a link to the Wellness Hub, an online portal that connects you to mental health educational resources, online tools, and one-on-one counseling.