Every year, International Self-Care Day (ISD) is recognized on July 24 – a date that symbolizes that the benefits of self-care are experienced 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Launched in 2011, International Self-Care Day aims to promote self-care as a vital foundation of health while raising awareness of health-related programmes around the world.

According to the World Health Organization, self-care is defined as, “what people do for themselves to establish and maintain health, and to prevent and deal with illness. It is a broad concept encompassing hygiene (general and personal), nutrition (type and quality of food eaten), lifestyle (sporting activities, leisure etc), environmental factors (living conditions, social habits, etc.) socio-economic factors (income level, cultural beliefs, etc.) and self-medication.”

Maintaining positive physical and mental health is an ongoing process that requires consistent work through self-care. Taking the time to enjoy favourite activities or try something new, connect with family and friends, and keep active are just a few small ideas that can have a big impact. In addition, the International Self-Care Foundation proposes a framework for practical self-care based on the following seven pillars:

1. Health literacy;
2. Self-awareness;
3. Physical activity;
4. Healthy eating;
5. Risk avoidance or mitigation;
6. Good hygiene; and
7. Rational and responsible use of products and services.

It’s important to take stock of our personal well-being and find ways to improve it whenever possible, and the Department of National Defence  provides access to programs if need be when the going  gets tough …

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a confidential, voluntary and neutral service available to civilian employees and their immediate family members when dealing with personal or professional issues that are affecting their personal well-being and/or work performance. If you are in need of support, please reach out to the Employee Assistance Program (available during regular working hours) and professional mental health counselling services through Health Canada – Employee Assistance Services (24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year) at 1-800-268-7708.

By implementing principles of self-care, people can be healthier and remain so into old age. They can also better manage, delay or even prevent the appearance of diseases such as heart attacks, strokes, diabetes and many cancers. The CAF is here to support the health of its members and recommends to take the time to “practice Self-Care” on July 24^th!

Through initiatives such as the Federal Public Service Workplace Mental Health Strategy and the Defence Total Health and Wellness Strategy, DND is committed to ensuring the long-term health and wellness of our military members and civilian personnel.

Additional health-related resources can also be accessed at the links below:

• International Self-Care Day – Official Website
• International Self-Care Day Infographic
• Employee Assistance Program – Intranet page
• Health Canada Employee Assistance Services (24 Hours)
• CMP Health Services – Intranet page