May 6^th to 12^th, 2024 is Mental Health Week marked by the Canadian Mental Health Association. Our ability to respond to life’s challenges, specifically tough situations at your rental property, in a positive manner means we have prepared ourselves to problem solve and make good decisions for ourselves and our circumstances.

If we find ourselves struggling with a mental illness, this does not mean we are always sick, we can experience good mental health, while continuing to live with a mental illness or mental health problem.  This is why it is important to talk about language so that we do not find ourselves making assumptions about ourselves or others who are having a tough time with their mental health.  One of the first steps to feeling more confident is knowing how we each respond as individuals to the challenges we will be faced with. 

As landlords, property managers, and rental housing providers, we can experience difficult situations. It’s ok to have bad days. If you or someone you know is struggling, or needs to talk about a situation, there are free resources available for you. You are not alone. In this industry, many professionals and fellow rental housing providers and property managers have experienced shocking events, discovered a deceased tenant, been a soundboard for issues and problems, seen damage to your property, or are faced with making difficult decisions. It’s not easy, and sometimes all of the little things add up. When stress happens, and when faced with circumstances it is important to remember what matters most, and take time for yourself and those close to you.

Only you know how you are feeling, what affects you and what helps, therefore, knowing yourself is a really good place to start when trying to promote positive mental health. Some people like exercise like walking, biking, or taking a fitness class. Some people relax by reading, watching a show, or spending time with their kids or grandkids. Some people need to talk things through and there are so many resources there to help you.

There are a number of Mental Health Resources we want to share with you, I would encourage you to take a look at the services available.

You can also view this mental health resource list that may be of use to you, or a tenant in distress, created by the Saskatoon Police Crime Free Multi-Housing Unit.