Anchored by values: Strengthening mental health through reflection and storytelling
As we observe World Mental Health Day, it’s important to remember that mental health is not just a personal journey; it impacts how we engage with the world and the people around us. In Canada, mental health concerns remain high, particularly among younger generations.
A recent survey by the Canadian Mental Health Association reveals that 68% of Canadians aged 18-34 feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges, underscoring the need for sustainable ways to support well-being.
Amid these challenges, reflecting on our values can offer a powerful tool for emotional resilience. Research demonstrates that individuals who regularly reflect on their core values experience better emotional health, lower stress levels, and a more profound sense of purpose.
In a survey I conducted with over 1,000 participants, many shared that the most meaningful parts of their legacy were the impact they had on others, family traditions, and the stories that shaped them. This highlights a collective desire to reconnect with values that ground us and help us manage life’s pressures.
Storytelling and legacy: the emotional impact
Research suggests that 65% of people believe that the stories and values passed down through generations are more important than financial inheritance. The act of sharing these stories not only strengthens emotional well-being but also fosters a sense of connectedness and belonging. Storytelling offers a unique way to solidify our values while creating an emotional legacy that benefits our loved ones. Documenting these values and stories helps build “psychological connectedness,” bridging past, present, and future generations, which supports intergenerational well-being. Especially in uncertain times, these stories offer emotional grounding and a framework for coping with challenges.
Moreover, reflecting on our values isn’t just a solitary endeavor—it has a ripple effect on those around us. It offers us a way to model emotional resilience for our families, friends, and colleagues. Studies have found that individuals who witness values-driven decision-making in loved ones are more likely to adopt similar approaches in their own lives, contributing to intergenerational well-being. In fact, a 2021 Canadian survey found that 65% of respondents believed that seeing their parents or mentors live by their values significantly influenced how they approached life’s challenges.
In a world that often feels chaotic, values offer a way to create order, clarity, and peace. And as we reflect on the importance of mental health, let’s remember that anchoring ourselves in our values doesn’t just benefit us—it strengthens the emotional well-being of the people we interact with today and future generations who will carry these lessons forward.
Free guide available at legacynex.com
Coming January 2025: LegacyNex
As we prepare for our official launch in January, we’re offering early access to help you begin this important reflection process.
Sign up to be the first to learn about what LegacyNex can do for you, and you’ll receive a free guide to help you reflect on your legacy – beyond financial assets – and start thinking about the stories, values, and experiences you want to share with your loved ones.