National Mental Health Week is turning 60 years old this May, and the Canadian Mental Health Association is inviting everyone across B.C. to celebrate.

According to a written statement, the annual awareness week, being held May 1-7, encourages people from all walks of life to learn, talk, reflect and engage with others on all issues relating to mental health and well-being. This year's provincial theme, Thank You for Trusting Me, speaks to the importance of having people you can trust when faced with challenges and the rewards of being able to provide that support to others.

The following are some suggestions to promote well-being in yourself and others:

- Adopt an attitude of gratitude

Taking time each day to think about the people and things you enjoy and appreciate helps keep things in perspective. Saying thanks is even better. Whether it's family, friends or coworkers, saying thanks lets them know they are valued. It's amazing how good a simple thank you can feel.

- Nurture your relationships

Building caring, supportive relationships can be the most rewarding parts of our lives, but sometimes we forget to maintain them. Reach out a few times a month to talk, listen and share a laugh.

- Take time out for tea

Whether it's tea, a good book or a walk in the park, remember to make time for relaxation, conversation or quiet reflection -- and share it with someone you care about.

- Eat right, keep fit

Eating right and getting exercise isn't just great for your body -- it's great for your mind. A healthy diet helps balance mood and exercise is a great for relieving stress. Plan healthy potluck lunches at work. Take a brisk walk on your break. Join a fun activity or fitness class with a friend or coworker.

- Get a lifestyle tune-up

When facing life's challenges, sometimes we can use the help of a professional. If you are feeling depressed, meet with your doctor. For financial challenges, seek the help of a financial planner or debt counsellor. For direction in your work life, speak to a career counsellor. To repair relationships, talk to a counsellor.

Local events timed with Mental Health Week include:

- Ride Don't Hide Spin-a-Thon

Celebrate Michael Schratter's 20,000 kilometre milestone on his journey around the world for mental health at this event, set for May 7 from noon to 2 p.m. at all 17 Steve Nash Fitness World and Sports Club locations, including the North Vancouver location, which will host the fun, high energy two-hour indoor cycling master class, with all proceeds going towards B.C. youth mental health initiatives.

Sign up for $15, or $10 each for a relay team of two to four people. Includes a free Mental Health Week fitness pass, valid from May 1 to 7 at all locations, and a Ride Don't Hide T-shirt for the first 150 to join. Collect pledges for the chance to win prizes, including a one-year fitness membership and a bike ($1,700 value). Info: www.cmha.bc.ca/spinathon.

- The Importance of Relaxation for Mental Health

Janice Manson, a registered nurse and clinical hypnotherapist, will leave attendees feeling relaxed and refreshed at a workshop, May 4 at 7 p.m. at John Braithwaite Community Centre, 145 West First St., North Vancouver. Registration not required.

- Responding with Respect: A Mental Health Basics Workshop

This one-day workshop provides simple steps for responding to common mental health issues. Participants learn pitfalls to avoid and tips for handling tricky situations and will hear a first-hand account of the impact of mental illness and a journey to recovery and practice first responder skills in a safe classroom environment. The event will be held May 6, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Community Room at Lynn Valley Library. Cost: $50. Space is limited to 24 participants. To register, contact Camilla Boisvert at 604-987-6959, ext. 230 or camilla.boisvert@cmha.bc.ca.

For more information about Mental Health Week, visit www.mentalhealthweek.ca. To connect with the North and West Vancouver branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association, visit www.northwestvancouver.cmha.bc.ca.