May 4th, 2023

This week is Mental Health Week. The theme this year is #MyStory, which invites people to share their personal journeys. To help break the stigma in speaking about mental health and well-being, this week we are profiling a few staff and students, who shared with us how they support their mental health, and what advice they would give to others.

Name: Mark Baker
Position: SERT/Teacher
School/Department: Avenue Road Public School

Q: What sorts of things do you do to support your mental health & wellness?

A: In the interest of breaking stigma, and showing transparency, I have four pillars that I use to support my mental health. First, spending time with an amazing two-year-old daughter, and wife. With my partner, I like to be as open and transparent about what I am going through, and give her the option to always tell me if I am unloading too much. Second, would be my counselor who has been supporting me with therapy for the past 5 years. While not continuous, I am able to share what I am feeling and look at the deeper cause of why I am feeling that way. Third, taking “me” time. It’s not selfish to say to your family that you need some time to just be you. For me, it’s socializing and playing games with my friends, either in person or online. Lastly, cooking and baking. I love to cook and bake – with a last name like Baker, I kinda have to. It’s calming and helps me focus.

Q: Who do you go to when you need support?

A: Definitely my counselor when needed, or close friends. After listening to some podcasts on promoting positive self-talk and mental well-being, I have learned that friends are really important to maintaining positive mental health and well-being. I can vent to them, be vulnerable, and have them listen without fear of big judgements.

Q: What would you say to another staff member who feels like they need support?

A: To sound cliche, take time to reflect and think about what is really “bothering” you. I feel like ever since I started my mental health journey six years ago, I have changed a lot in how to tackle stressful situations, and establish boundaries with other people and my friends as well. I understand that we all have stories, and histories about what we have been through, but seeking out professional help is never a sign of weakness but strength and courage. It takes strength to admit when something is wrong, and you need help. I remember mornings, just last year, when I was on the phone with Here 24/7 telling them about all the pressure I was under, but it was so helpful just to talk and cry about it. I hope you find this helpful, and that whoever reads this can find peace and balance in their lives.